General Manager, Word In Black (Work Remotely)

Reports to: Word In Black secretary/LMA+LMF co-CEO

About Word In Black:

Word In Black (WIB) is a dynamic digital media startup, backed by 10 of the nation’s legendary Black-owned local media organizations, focused on amplifying voices and seeking solutions to racial inequities. WIB is committed to excellence in journalism, community engagement and sustainable growth.

Role Overview:

The General Manager of Word In Black will collaborate closely with the staff and board of directors to execute the strategic vision of WIB. This role is responsible for overseeing all operational aspects of WIB, including audience development, revenue generation, marketing and communications, publisher relations, digital operations and news/content creation (led by our very experienced managing director).

Key Responsibilities:

• Effectively execute the current strategic direction of Word In Black, and help shape the future direction, in alignment with the overarching goals established by the board of directors.
• Manage and optimize all operational functions of WIB, including but not limited to:
• Audience development
• Business-to-business and consumer revenue streams
• Marketing & communications
• News/content creation and distribution (providing strategic guidance to our newsroom of 11 FTEs and growing)
• WIB publisher relations
• Digital operations
• Philanthropic funding of journalism and business sustainability
• Personally drive business development efforts, focusing on revenue generation through brand sponsorship programs and strategic partnerships aimed at audience expansion.
• Oversee the launch of an events division (including the hiring of an events director).
• Oversee other product launches focused on data strategies and more (including the hiring of a research director).
• Serve as a spokesperson for the brand, including speaking at events
• Work with the Word In Black Racial Equity Fund staff at LMF to foster relationships with philanthropic partners.
• Financial reporting, budgeting, and analysis in collaboration with the LMA+LMF finance team and WIB treasurer.

Key Metrics for Success:

• Revenue generation, including sponsorship and partnership income.
• Growth in newsletter subscribers and all other audience metrics (web, social, events, etc.) 
• Direct Reports: The General Manager will directly supervise the managing director (newsroom), events manager and data manager.
• Qualifications:
• Proven leadership experience in digital media, advertising/marketing, journalism, and/or related fields.
• Strong strategic thinking and execution capabilities.
•  Demonstrated success in revenue generation and audience growth.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including board members, partners, and internal teams.
• Understanding of digital media and marketing landscape and emerging trends.
• Travel is required (6-8 weeks is expected).
•  Mission-driven and passionate about the vision for Word In Black.
• Self starter that understands the scrappy nature of a startup and is willing to roll up theirsleeves on many different initiatives.
• Location: Though we have a preference for Eastern or Central time zones, the General Manager can be located anywhere in the continental United States with reliable broadband internet access. Word In Black, PBC, is a virtual organization.
• Compensation: Base salary of $120,000 plus incentive ($20,000 at goal, directly tied to revenue and audience growth, with further upside potential). 
• Benefits include: health, dental, 401K, PTO, holidays, etc. 
• Application: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position to Lindsey Estes at lindsey.estes@localmedia.org.

This job description outlines the responsibilities, qualifications, and expectations for the General Manager role at Word In Black, ensuring clarity and alignment with organizational goals and strategic priorities.