Managing Editor

Managing Editor

Role and Context

Working within the Communications Directorate, the Managing Editor is responsible for the editorial production of STEP’s publications: the bi-monthly magazine and the quarterly technical supplement. We produce two digital publications for the STEP membership: the STEP Journal is published six times a year, and the Trust Quarterly Review (TQR) is published four times a year. These publications are a core part of STEP’s member offering and serve to help members stay up to date and continually build their skills and knowledge.

The Managing Editor is responsible for producing informative and timely publications of the highest quality that meet the needs of members. The role works closely with the Graphic Designer and Assistant Editor on the day-to-day operations of these two digital publications, with oversight from the Head of Editorial. The ideal candidate will exhibit a strong sense of initiative and work well with others. They will hit the ground running, immersing themselves in the industry and building a wide network of contacts in order to produce timely and relevant content that meets our members’ needs. They will enjoy taking sometimes complex, technical content and finding engaging and accessible ways to present it. They will be able to demonstrate significant experience in a similar role, either B2B or B2C.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

Editorial

Managing the production of STEP’s publications, the STEP Journal and the TQR; including:

• Planning and scheduling content
• Researching and commissioning articles
• Oversee proofreading procedures and edit copy when necessary
• Writing and compiling features
• Coordinating freelancers, authors, staff and external suppliers
• Managing approval and sign-off processes
• Oversight for the publication newsletters and their associated strategy
• Ensuring timely production of the publications
• Oversight of reader queries

Evaluating Google Analytics and related data points to suggest content strategies accordingly Working closely with the Assistant Editor to ensure the publication process runs smoothly and content is of a high-quality Working closely with the Graphic Designer to select artwork and commission cover art for each Journal issue.

Internal Communication and Stakeholder & External Liaison

• Collaborating with internal STEP departments to ensure information is delivered to members via STEP’s publications promptly and consistently
• Working with other members of the Communications Directorate to deliver consistent messages across all communications
• Liaising with both publications’ Editorial Boards to approve articles and plan issues
• Liaising with authors, journalists and PR agencies to commission content

• Oversee the uploading, publishing and updating content layouts through a CMS on the Journal website
• Ensuring editorial projects are completed to high quality and on schedule
• Ensuring best practice accessibility and inclusivity guidelines are adhered to in the publications
• Working with STEP’s commercial partner to process sponsored content to a high ethical standard
• Attending STEP conferences and industry events to develop a contact network, industry knowledge and raise the publications’ profile
• Undertake any other duties, as appropriate to the post, as delegated by the Head of Editorial.

Person Specification

Skills

• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills. (E) Ability to conceptualise and plan editorial content. (E) Organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to work to multiple deadlines. (E) Collaboration – ability to work closely with immediate team and departments across the organisation to create cohesive publications that meet business needs (E) Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders. (E) Demonstrated ability to rapidly learn and understand new topics (E) especially in complex and evolving fields such as trusts, estates, tax, and legal matters (D). Excellent attention to detail. (E) Good problem-solving skills. (E) Knowledge of digital publishing platforms, SEO, content management systems (CMS), and analytics tools (D)

Experience:

• At least five years’ agency or publishing experience in a similar role. (E)
• Able to work in a highly collaborative environment. (E)
• Experience in a legal and/or financial background. (D) Knowledge of accessibility standards in digital publishing. (D) Contributing to editorial and creative meetings. (D) Team member supervision/management experience. (D)

Qualifications

• A relevant degree or equivalent qualification. (D)

Special Aptitudes:

• Attention to detail: Meticulous approach to editing and content quality, ensuring all material is accurate and error-free. (E)
• Organisational skills: Excellent time-management and organisational abilities, able to juggle multiple projects and meet deadlines. (E)
• Innovative thinking: Creative mindset to keep content fresh and relevant, with a forward-thinking approach to industry trends. (E)
• Strategic vision: Ability to understand and align content strategies with business objectives. (E)
• Resilience: Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, adapting quickly to changing industry trends or editorial priorities. (E)
• Industry networking: Ability to cultivate and maintain a network of key industry contacts to source expert contributions that enhance the publications' authority. (E)
• Adaptability: Proven track record of adapting to new editorial tools, content trends and evolving industry landscapes. (E)
• Continuous learning: Demonstrable commitment to developing yourself and staying updated on industry developments, legal changes and new editorial practices. (E)

(E = Essential, D=Desirable)

HOW TO APPLY

Click on the 'Apply now' button below. Please upload your CV and a cover letter. The closing date for applications is Wednesday 8th January 2025.