Associate Comment Editor - US, Washington

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** Role purpose and overview
** This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the Telegraph’s US commentary at a pivotal moment for the US and the world.

Based in Washington, DC, it involves commissioning, editing and publishing high-quality comment pieces, with the aim of growing the Telegraph’s audience inside the US and internationally.
** Key responsibilities
*** Commission and edit excellent opinion columns designed to grow the Telegraph’s subscriber base and appeal to our existing readership.
* Exercise strong editorial judgment to distinguish quickly between good and bad ideas, including whether they accord with the Telegraph’s political principles.
* Develop a constant stream of new ideas for columns, as well as creative new ways of presenting them to readers.
* Find and develop new US-based writers who align with the Telegraph’s editorial principles.
* Work closely with the Comment Editor in London to develop a strategy for growing the Telegraph’s US opinion offering.
* Liaise with digital publishers to optimise the production, promotion and performance of all content – with the best possible headlines, pictures and visual assets at all times.
* Immerse yourself in data analytics that show what the audience is reading when, where and how – and use this as a guide as to what will work when commissioning.
* Work closely with our overnight operation in the US and Australia, as well as the team in London, to ensure smooth daily handovers in both the morning and evening.
** Key skills
** Essential* Previous experience of commissioning opinion pieces.
* Excellent editing skills.
* A high level of interest in US politics and international affairs.
* Good knowledge of the Telegraph, its position in the market, its editorial principles, and its existing writers.
* Outstanding editorial judgment.
* A good understanding of digital publishing, including the role of SEO, social media and newsletters in promoting articles.
* Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with executive editors, heads of departments and senior journalists.
* A self-starter who is comfortable working independently.

Desirable
* Previous experience of commissioning in the US market.
* An extensive contact-book of US-based writers who would be suitable for the Telegraph.
* Experience of working in a subscription-focused business.
** Our benefits
** The nature of our industry means life at the Telegraph Media Group is fast-paced, demanding, and interesting. We also want it to be rewarding for everyone who works here by creating a suite of benefits that contribute to lifestyle choices and leisure activities. From dynamic working opportunities, medical cover, and parental leave (six months fully paid maternity leave and enhanced paternity/partner leave), to life assurance and season ticket loans, you can choose from a range of flexible benefits, designed to support your lifestyle and help you achieve a healthy work-life balance.
** Training and development
** With support from your manager and colleagues, you’ll also have access to a variety of training and development opportunities through The Academy. Covering a range of personal and professional skills, our courses enable you to develop an enjoyable and rewarding career.
** Our commitment to inclusion
** At Telegraph Media Group, we foster a diverse and inclusive workplace and we are committed to building a team that reflects a wide variety of skills, perspectives and backgrounds. We believe in equality of opportunity and welcome candidates from all backgrounds, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio-economic background, religion and/or belief.

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