The data reporter is charged with providing Cincinnati Business Courier products with critical research that serves readers.
For instance, the Top 25 list is a signature feature of the Business Journals and, under the direction of the data reporter, will be supplemented by charts, graphs, stories, etc. to illustrate what the numbers mean. Stories narrate the reasons for recent movements up or down the lists and the people behind the moves, and new types of lists are added to the mix.
The entire list database is a resource for editorial content across all ACBJ newsrooms as well as the primary source for digital, electronic and online data products. The data reporter is responsible for maintaining and growing that database, producing Top 25 lists, directories and other research-based special publications. The data reporter also provides assistance on enterprise projects as assigned by Editors.
- Produce weekly Top 25 list.
- Produce stories and graphics to explain and magnify interesting trends, providing deep views into rankings.
- In collaboration with the Social Media & Engagement Manager and Digital Producer, compile short, daily lists.
- Locate and survey every relevant company or other source for each Top 25 list in accordance with the Business Journal’s editorial calendar. The target is 100 percent participation by every relevant company or other party.
- Create, update and maintain database of all companies and sources to be surveyed for every list. Database must be constantly updated.
- Accurately enter and sort survey data. Upload lists to American City Business Journals on schedule provided by ACBJ. Every Top 25 List should conform to local Business Journal and Associated Press style. The target is 100 percent accuracy for each list.
- Follow up by telephone, e-mail 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 representative of that company who should be included. Keep accurate, thorough records of each communication. If previous list participants have not responded after this, work with the rest of the editorial team to determine best contacts to ensure a response for this year and determine the best contact for list surveys going forward. If these steps fail, consult with Editor-in-Chief about when to use last year’s numbers, versus removing a company from the list, or seeking third-party data.
- Update and correct all Top 25 Lists for inclusion in the annual Book of Lists as directed by Editor. Ensure all book deadlines are met. The goal of the book is 100 percent accuracy for each list.
- In addition to surveys, seek out a minimum of one, and a target of two, additional legitimate and credible sources of information for each Top 25 List, including third-party research organizations that can verify information provided by local companies to the Business Journal.
- Take the lead in coming up with themes, ideas and content for data-based cover stories, including but not limited to Courier 100 and Fast 55. This also includes editing content with the editing team, writing headlines and cutlines, and working with the NDD on ideas for layout and photos. Additional cover stories could be created based on list data.
- Attend and participate in editorial staff meetings. Participate in annual planning session for the Business Journal’s editorial calendar. Meet with the Editor-in-Chief a minimum of once each quarter, and a target of once each month, to update lists on the editorial calendar.
- Provide Business Journal reporters with research assistance on enterprise projects as assigned by editors.
- Regularly participate in and attend Business Journal sponsored events.
- Take on any other assignment made by manager(s).
- Work cooperatively and collaboratively with all colleagues and professionally with sources.
To apply, go here.
