The Wall Street Journal Opinion section is looking for a New York-based editor and writer to create, launch and lead a new states-focused newsletter and column. This person will shape the editorial and strategic direction of a twice-weekly newsletter offering analysis and commentary on regional political and economic developments that reflect the Journal editorial page’s free market philosophy.
As an editorial leader, this person will develop and execute the newsletter from concept to launch, owning its editorial identity, tone and growth strategy. They will edit all major pieces, ensuring the product’s voice and quality align with Opinion’s standards, as well as contributing their own commentary and editorials to the newsletter and column. They will also be responsible for managing two direct reports, guiding their research, writing, editing and story development. This person will collaborate directly with senior leadership, including the Editorial Page Editor, Opinion Managing Editor and other stakeholders, to shape the strategic vision for the newsletter and identify opportunities for editorial spin-offs and cross-platform integration.
This is a hands-on leadership role ideal for an entrepreneurial editor-writer eager to build a new product from the ground up, combining editorial excellence with audience insight and product innovation. The goal is to target a new and broader audience particularly interested in region-specific content by delivering high-quality, compelling commentary and insights on developments in the states with a focus on politics and economics.
Applicants should include a cover letter and resume.
You Will:
- Lead the creation and launch of a new, twice-a-week states-focused newsletter and column, from concept development to ongoing editorial production.
- Develop arguments and write persuasive opinion articles for the newsletter/column. Edit, oversee and curate commentary with an emphasis on regional political and economic issues consistent with the Journal editorial page’s free market philosophy.
- Manage and develop a team of two opinion writers/researchers, providing editorial guidance, performance feedback and professional growth opportunities. Provide guidance on the selection of region-specific topics that are of interest to the Journal’s Opinion audience.
- Define and execute the content strategy in collaboration with the Editorial Page Editor, Opinion Managing Editor and other senior Opinion editors, using data and audience insights to guide editorial decisions.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams—including data, SEO, audience and social media—to optimize reach, engagement and subscription growth.
- Partner with editorial board members, writers, columnists and features editors to adapt their work for newsletter audiences, as well as collaborate on editorial spin-offs that would publish in the Review & Outlook section.
- Represent the newsletter’s vision in editorial meetings and cross-departmental initiatives.
- Participate in editorial board meetings.
You Have:
- 8+ years of experience in journalism, including editing, editorial writing or commentary and reporting, with a strong focus on political or economic content.
- Proven experience launching or leading editorial products, particularly newsletters, with measurable audience engagement success.
- Deep understanding of the Opinion section’s guiding philosophy and principles, with the ability to articulate them in compelling, accessible writing.
- Demonstrated excellence in writing, editing and headline creation, especially for digital and email formats.
- Management and leadership skills, with experience overseeing writers and coordinating with senior editors.
- Ability to thrive under deadline pressure and adapt quickly to breaking news.
- Willingness to work flexible hours as needed for major news developments.
To apply, go here.
