The San Francisco Business Times is looking for a driven and innovative data editor to oversee the research operation at the Business Times and our sister paper, the Silicon Valley Business Journal.
The data editor works with two data reporters to manage the list database and ensure the accuracy, breadth, depth, quality and utility of all weekly industry/Top 25 and other data/research produced by both papers.
The 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 editor is responsible for maintaining and growing that database, producing lists and other research-based special publications.
Skills
• Expert and sourcing and finding information on the internet
• Fierce attention to detail and ability to stay on schedule
• Ability to learn new computer systems easily
• Skilled at data analysis and interpretation
Duties
• Conduct an annual inventory of all lists and research produced by the organizations, reviewing for relevance to readers, methodology, ranking criteria and data sourcing. Help determine which lists should run in both markets and ways to divide up and present research/lists in new ways. Identify opportunities for new lists.
• Ensure that all weekly lists are completed, proofed and sent to the National Design Desk by deadline.
• Work with editors and designers to oversee production of the annual Book of Lists.
• Compile lists based on editorial calendar and manage workflow of research team.
• Oversee and constantly update research database in conjunction with data reporters. The target is 100 percent participation by every relevant company or other party. Create and manage survey process 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.
• In addition to surveys, seek out a minimum of one, and a target of two, additional legitimate and credible sources of information for each list, including third-party research organizations that can verify information provided by local companies.
• Meet regularly to plan and execute weekly print/digital list features — also called list stories, list extras, etc. — in conjunction with other editors and other data reporters. Use creative storytelling to bring lists and data to life with a focus on people and visual presentation in both print and digital. Produce list features by deadline for proofing and layout.
• Manage research efforts related to special projects, events and publications, such as Best Places to Work, Fast 100 and Middle Market 75. Work with editorial team to suggest new special projects.
• Produce at least four cover/centerpiece packages a year for both papers, such as Public Companies, Private Companies, Wealthiest ZIP codes, etc.
• Integrate data-driven news into our regular news coverage, suggesting digital and print stories tied to research, reports and database releases. Produce two data-driven stories a week. Be an advocate for increasing the use of data throughout both newsrooms.
• Use Infogram to create and embed graphics into digital stories to explain and magnify interesting trends.
• Help train data reporters.
• Ensure all lists and list content conform to ACBJ, AP and local style.
• Employ best practices related to SEO, digital metrics and social media.
• Attend and participate in editorial staff meetings.
• Participate in annual planning session for the editorial calendar.
• Provide 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.
Experience
Experience with Excel and other applications and programs that aid in research preferred
Education
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience. MLS (masters in library science) degree a plus.
TO APPLY: Please send a resume, cover letter and published clips if available to Doug Fruehling, editor-in-chief of the San Francisco Business Times, to dfruehling@bizjournals.com.
