Investigative Reporter and Unit Editorial Manager

About Us
At WINK News, we are committed to delivering impactful journalism that drives change and holds power to account. Our investigative team is at the forefront of uncovering stories that matter, and we are seeking a dynamic leader to guide our efforts across all platforms.

Role Overview
We are looking for an experienced investigative journalist with a proven track record of impactful reporting and a passion for multiplatform storytelling. This role combines hands-on investigative reporting with strategic editorial leadership, overseeing the investigative unit's operations and content distribution across digital, broadcast, and social media platforms.

Key Responsibilities

Investigative Reporting & Storytelling
• Lead and execute high-impact investigative projects, from conception through publication, ensuring thorough research, compelling narratives, and adherence to journalistic ethics.
• Collaborate with reporters, editors, and multimedia teams to produce stories that resonate across various platforms, including text, video, audio, and interactive formats.
• Mentor and guide junior investigative reporters and producers, fostering a culture of curiosity, integrity, and excellence.

Editorial Leadership & Strategy
• Develop and implement a comprehensive editorial strategy for the investigative unit, aligning with organizational goals and audience engagement metrics.
• Work with Investigative EP to oversee the editorial calendar, ensuring timely delivery of investigative content and effective coordination with other newsroom departments.
• Manage and optimize the distribution of investigative stories across digital, broadcast, and social media platforms, utilizing analytics to inform decisions and maximize reach.

Multiplatform Content Development
• Innovate and adapt investigative content for various platforms, including long-form articles, video documentaries, podcasts, and social media posts.
• Collaborate with digital and social media teams to create engaging promotional materials and drive audience interaction.
• Utilize SEO, metadata, and audience insights to enhance content visibility and engagement across platforms.

Team Management & Development
• Lead, inspire, and manage a team of investigative reporters, producers and photographers providing guidance, feedback, and professional development opportunities.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment that encourages diverse perspectives and innovative storytelling approaches.
• Coordinate with other editorial leaders to ensure cohesive and strategic content planning across the organization.
Note, this position will be called upon to react to breaking news and fill-in as a daily reporter and/or anchor as needed.

Qualifications

Required
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in investigative journalism, with a portfolio of impactful stories that have led to tangible outcomes.
• Strong proficiency in digital journalism tools, content management systems, and analytics platforms.
• Strong presence on social media including Facebook, Instagram and YouTube
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with the ability to adapt content for various formats and audiences.
• Deep understanding of journalistic ethics, legal considerations, and the importance of accuracy and fairness.

Preferred
• Experience in editorial leadership, including team management, content strategy, and multiplatform content distribution.
• Familiarity with SEO best practices, social media strategies, and audience engagement techniques.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced newsroom environment.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in journalism.

Physical Requirements
• Ability to sit or work at a computer for extended periods.
• Clear verbal and written communication in person, by phone, and via video.
• Operate standard office and recording equipment.
• Travel, including local driving to field locations or meetings.
• Navigate indoor and outdoor environments as needed for reporting.
• Able to lift up to 20 pounds.
• Visual and auditory ability to conduct interviews and review content.

Benefits
Full-time new hires: Eligible to participate in all Company benefit plans, including:
• Health, Dental, Vision Insurance, and HSA
o 1st of the month after 30 days of employment
o Subject to plan terms
• Eligibility for company-paid benefits such as life insurance & EAP and employee-paid benefits such as short-term disability
• PTO – Earned on Accrual Basis
• Company-Paid Holidays
• 401(k)

Why Join Us?
WINK News is locally owned. Here you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team of investigative journalists in producing stories that make a difference. We offer a collaborative work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to shape the future of investigative reporting across multiple platforms.

Southwest Florida is often praised as being one of the healthiest and happiest places in the world with miles of white-sand beaches and a dynamic community. Broadcast Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and we are a drug-free and smoke-free environment.