Grist’s Solutions Lab

Grist is a nonprofit media organization for people who want a planet that doesn’t burn and a future that doesn’t suck. Fix, Grist’s solutions lab, explores the world of what’s possible, identifying and celebrating emerging climate and justice leaders, connecting them to each other to deepen their impact, and telling unexpected stories about progress.

Summary

Grist, the environmental media organization, is seeking an entrepreneurial leader to help build the storytelling wing of a new initiative called Fix. The editorial director of Fix will lead the work of its content team as it develops new approaches to telling stories of what a better future could be, through a Fix website, live storytelling events, social media platforms, and partnerships with culture-changing media organizations. This upbeat narrative will help to elevate a diverse array of solutions-oriented climate leaders and their work, and accelerate climate and justice solutions. The overall focus will be on Who’s Next and What’s Next in tackling climate change, and on making palpable and real what’s possible, in entertaining, informative, heart-moving (and humorous!) ways. They will report to the Fix program director and also work closely with Grist’s founder.

We are looking for a creative, results-oriented leader who has developed programs and led the implementation of storytelling strategies in the past to spur change.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Work closely with the other members of the Fix team to identify climate and justice solutions, and the diverse leaders who are making them a reality.
• Develop and implement a strategic storytelling plan.
• Direct and manage a growing Fix content team, including a content manager, a fellow, and a range of contractors, including writers, visual and multimedia journalists, video producers, animators, and illustrators.
• Coordinate the production of special projects such as the annual Grist 50 list and Big Ideas collection, and monthly themed content.
• Work with product development and design staff and contractors to develop and refine Fix’s digital presence.
• Collaborate with Fix staff and contractors to curate talent and programming for Fix events, including dinners, public performances, retreats, and an annual Fix Festival.
• Collaborate with marketing staff to identify other platforms, from streaming video to live events, where broad audiences can connect with Fix content.
• Coordinate content plans with Grist’s editorial leaders, and represent Fix in organization-wide planning and project meetings.
• Other duties may be assigned from time to time.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate for this position is a mission-driven, strategic professional with a creative spark and a track record of program expansion.

• Hunger to build something transformative
• 8+ years demonstrable experience in nonfiction content development
• Visual storytelling experience, including video, photo, and animation
• Strong people-management and team-building skills, with at least 3+ years experience managing a distributed team
• Ability to proactively collaborate and work seamlessly with staff across the organization
• Exceptional judgment and the ability to juggle multiple projects with competing deadlines
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Superb written and verbal communication skills
• A sense of humor
• Respectful, kind, and collaborative work style — works to eliminate versus build silos
• Preference for Seattle or New York, but national candidates are welcome

Compensation

• Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience.
• Grist provides a strong benefits program that includes employee and dependent medical, dental and vision coverage (with Grist covering a portion of the premiums), family leave, generous vacation accrual, and 401(k), with employer match.

To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and three samples of your work to editorialdirector@grist.org with “Editorial Director” in the subject line. No phone calls, please.

Grist’s commitment to a diverse, inclusive staff reflects our vision of a just, sustainable world. We do our best work when we embrace differences and thrive when we explore them. We’re interested in hearing from people who can work with diverse colleagues of varied experiences. Grist provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.