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Head Writer
ABOUT THE POSITION
RDI is building a movement to renew democracy in the US and around the world through incisive commentary, thought-provoking events, direct aid to frontline communities, and cultivating unlikely alliances. We are looking for a Head Writer to lead print and text-based content across the organization. This role reports to the Chief Content Officer (CCO) and will oversee any freelance and/or contract writers.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
- Work closely with the CEO and CCO to develop a brand voice across all written content.
- Identify strong stories, compelling narratives, and critical analysis of topics and issues that align with RDI’s mission.
- Act as a lead editorial voice, advising senior RDI members on key initiatives across a variety of RDI programming efforts and ensuring that we’re effectively addressing any relevant current events.
- Oversee and edit RDI’s two newsletters, The Democracy Brief and The Topline.
- Guide all written projects and assignments through the editing process, from line and copy editing to final submission and publication of the pieces.
- Manage freelance writers and editors as needed and directed.
- Lead all writing assignments for third-party op-eds, CEO and founder speeches, public appearances, Q&As and requested interviews.
- Work with the CCO across social media and video projects as needed within a written context.
- Responsible for managing RDI’s Twitter/X presence, including daily threads.
- Support the Director of Stewardship to create compelling development materials.
- Work with the CEO and other team members to think through political positioning and subject matter at RDI events including our Frontlines of Freedom Conference, Heroes of Democracy Gala, etc.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
- Minimum of four years experience writing and editing, preferably with some digital media experience.
- Capable of offering incisive and easily digestible analysis of complicated and controversial political topics.
- A unique capacity to convey a strong point of view, and to sometimes be provocative, within RDI’s voice and aligning with our values.
- The ability to write a pithy and clever turn of phrase.
- A strong understanding of what makes a strong, compelling story.
- A strong working knowledge of foreign and domestic news and issues.
- A deep knowledge of current media trends when it comes to digital content strategy for print/text based platforms.
- Impeccable editing skills and ability to communicate edits effectively.
- A strong rolodex of freelance/contract writers is a plus.
- A truly collaborative spirit. We are a small, but mighty team.
- A driven work ethic, an insatiable curiosity, and a growth mindset.
- The ability to thrive under deadlines but also handle the unexpected with a sense of calm.
- Preference will be given to candidates located in the New York or Washington, DC areas who can come into RDI’s office in their respective city one-to-three days per week; however, this position can be remote for the right candidate working on Eastern Time.
BENEFITS
We offer a competitive salary of $70,000 to $95,000 depending on experience, generous benefits, flexible hours, paid time off, and unique opportunities for ongoing professional development. Benefits include a 401(k) retirement plan and a variety of nationwide medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
HOW TO APPLY
Please apply through our portal online here. Please email apply@rdi.org with any questions.