The Carter Center: Lead Writer & Editor, Communications

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Description

 

The Carter Center is a 501(c)(3), not-for-profit, nongovernmental organization founded in 1982 in Atlanta, GA, by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, in partnership with Emory University. The Center has helped to improve millions of lives in more than 80 countries by waging peace, fighting disease, and building hope. The Carter Center is guided by a fundamental commitment to human rights and the alleviation of human suffering. It seeks to prevent and resolve conflicts, enhance freedom and democracy, and improve health.  

 

The Carter Center collaborates with other organizations, public and private, in carrying out its mission around the world. Current information about the Center’s many programs and activities are available at The Carter Center.

 

SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Director of Storytelling, the Lead Writer & Editor creates or refines statements, speeches, op-eds, columns, and letters for the CEO, Board Chair, and other members of the Carter Center’s senior leadership team; identifies and prepares compelling hard news and feature stories for web, broadcast, social, and print platforms that are appropriate for institutional promotion to website visitors, mass media, social media followers, and donors; and has editorial authority over reports and other deliverables generated by programs, fundraisers, and the Communications office.

 

 

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Reporting to the Director of Storytelling, the Lead Writer & Editor creates or refines statements, speeches, op-eds, columns, and letters for the CEO, Board Chair, and other members of The Carter Center's senior leadership team. Identifies and prepares compelling hard news and feature stories for web, broadcast, social, and print platforms that are appropriate for institutional promotion to website visitors, mass media, social media followers, and donors. Has editorial authority over reports and other deliverables generated by programs, fundraisers, and the Communications office.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Story Development: Identifies stories, reports, announcements, quotes, and messages for institutional promotion. Conducts interviews at headquarters or in the field, including overseas. Writes articles for newsletters; prepares talking points, drafts scripts for video, slideshows, and audio products. Is proficient in a wide range of storytelling styles and formats for web, social media, print, and broadcast outlets. Understands what story forms work best in which medium and repurposes stories for various platforms to help achieve the Center’s communications goals.
• Web & Publications: Researches, writes, and edits print stories for Carter Center institutional publications and the website or for dissemination to the media. Excellent composition, grammar, and AP style skills required. Translates programmatic and scientific writing into plain language for a general audience.
• Editorial Oversight: Elevates the profile of our senior leaders and program directors by providing guidance and editing on thought leadership pieces. Organizes and implements ambitious production schedules for projects in collaboration with Communications, program, and fundraising staff. Responsible for the editorial accuracy of products in all formats. Responsible for proofreading and copy editing all public-facing materials. Edits or assists in writing critical grant proposals and award applications. May attend program meetings or interview staff and directors to identify, research, and prepare stories. Writes and edits for all platforms and editorial formats: feature stories, profiles, Q&As, chronologies, quotes, speeches, video scripts, news briefs, op-eds, and other presentations. Meticulous attention to detail is required in all formats. Works directly with photo database, may write and log captions and photo credits. Organizes raw interviews (text, audio, video) and resource material.
• Strategy and Planning: Is an integral member of the Communications Office strategy and planning team and is expected to contribute ideas for new content and creative approaches for publications, the website, and social media. May participate in drafting messaging platforms and other strategic communications planning. Works closely with Director, VP, and other staff on editorial content and obtains all necessary approvals.
• Supervisory Duties: May supervise outside consultants, staff, interns, or volunteers. Plays a leading role in providing guidance, c