Buffalo Business First seeks data reporter

The Data Reporter of Buffalo Business First provides market research for Business First news products. Foremost, are weekly Top 25 lists, a cornerstone research feature and the annual Book of Lists, a compilation of the weekly lists.

The Data Reporter is responsible for maintaining and growing Business First’s list database as well as producing directories and other research-based projects and publications. The Data Reporter generates stories for print and online products and will collaborate with other Business First journalists to develop stories that analyze business data and identify trends.

Duties

– Produce weekly Top 25 lists

– Produce stories and graphics to explain and magnify trends, providing deep views into rankings.

– Produce a minimum of four centerpieces a year and contribute to the online and print products on a weekly basis as assigned by the editors.

– Locate and survey every relevant company or other sources for each Top 25 list in accordance with Business First’s editorial calendar. The target for every list is 100 percent participation by every relevant company.

– Create, update and maintain database of all companies and sources to survey for every list. Database must be constantly updated.

– Accurately enter and sort survey data. Upload lists to ACBJ. Every list must conform to Business First style.

– Follow up by telephone, email or other means at least three times to individual companies and organizations that don’t respond to initial list survey, with a minimum of one actual conversation with a representative of that company who should be included. Keep accurate, thorough records of each communication.

– Update and correct all Top 25 Lists for inclusion in the annual Book of Lists. Meet all deadlines. The goal of the book is 100 percent accuracy for each list.

– Attend and participate in staff meetings and annual editorial calendar planning sessions

– Collaborate with other Business First journalists on research-oriented projects.

– Participate in Business First events.

Skills

– Experience with Excel and FileMaker Pro preferred

– Ability to learn new computer systems easily

– Proven reporting and writing skills

– Skilled at data analysis and interpretation

To apply, send clips, a resume and a cover letter to editor Jeff Wright at jwright@bizjournals.com.