Department Head, News Graphics

Application Instructions

Please list all professional experience and explain any gaps in employment history. All of your application materials, which may include PDF files of work samples and/or links to audio, video, photography or graphics, must be uploaded to the field labeled Resume/Cover Letter/Work Samples to be considered for the position.

Job Description

The Washington Post is seeking an accomplished and highly skilled department head to oversee our talented and award-winning news Graphics team. We are looking for a passionate leader with a keen eye who can elevate the work of a multi-disciplinary department.  

The ideal candidate has a distinctive record of executing ambitious information graphics in a fast-paced news environment across topics and lines of coverage. We are looking for someone skilled at managing daily and enterprise journalism in a variety of forms – mapping, charts, interactives and experimental visual work. 

This leader will also be expected to work collaboratively alongside visual journalism leaders in related disciplines – design, photo and video – in advancing the visual identity of The Post in our storytelling and presentation. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead a team of talented graphics editors, cartographers and reporters. 

• Make strategic decisions about the structure, hiring and processes of the graphics team. 

• Foster and encourage collaborations among the graphics staff and with journalists around the newsroom.   

• Ensure a supportive work culture that allows individuals and teams to thrive.   

• Contribute significantly to The Post’s comprehensive visual storytelling strategy.   

• Advocate for the importance of visual journalism within The Post. This includes working with editors and leadership to ensure that visual storytelling continues its trajectory as a valuable and essential part of The Post's editorial mission.   

• Set the vision and coverage priorities for the graphics department, in concert and collaboration with senior newsroom leaders. 

Preferred Qualifications

• At least five years of experience as a leader of a complex visual storytelling team.  

• A world-class eye for infographics, and a passion for using that eye to elevate the work of talented, ambitious graphic artists and editors.   

• A track record of success in developing and implementing innovative visual storytelling strategies in the media industry.  

• A deep understanding of the ethical considerations involved in visual journalism.  

• An engaging and empathetic approach to leadership.  

• Excellent communication skills.  

• Expert technical knowledge of infographics and visual storytelling.  

• Experience managing a budget. 

• A vision for how graphics can connect with current and future audiences across digital surfaces and experiences. 

• Passion for The Washington Post and its mission to provide high-quality journalism to the public.  

This position reports to the Head of Visuals and is based i