The nonprofit Rivard Report, San Antonio’s fast-growing digital media site, invites applications for the newly created position of editor-in-chief. Experienced journalists with proven leadership skills, a passion for local journalism and urban affairs, and proficiency with digital publishing are encouraged to apply.
Now in its sixth year of publication, the Rivard Report is currently led by co-founder Robert Rivard, Managing Editor Iris Dimmick, and a seven-member board of directors. Rivard will assume the role of publisher and weekly columnist once an editor-in-chief is in place. Dimmick, who also reports on municipal and urban affairs, and Director of Development and Business Manager Jenna Mallette, currently oversee editorial and business operations, respectively, on a day-to-day basis.
Click here to read more about the staff and board.
“Since we converted to a 501(c)3 nonprofit in late 2015, our staff has grown to 11 full-time employees, three contributing writers, and a number of regular freelance contributors,” Rivard said. “That growth was made possible through the support of our more than 1,000 members, and the generosity of area businesses, foundations, and philanthropists. To sustain our continuing growth and development as a source of credible local news, we need to add leadership.
“Our mission, however, remains unchanged: We believe a well-informed and connected community is essential to making San Antonio a better place to live, work and play,” Rivard added.
The editor-in-chief will report to the publisher.
The new editor-in-chief will oversee continuing editorial growth, including the development of investigative reporting, the recent addition of reporters to cover community health, business, and tech beats. Editors also plan to make podcasts a regular editorial feature such as this recent podcast on the Texas Cavaliers published during Fiesta.
Dimmick will be transitioning out of her management role to focus on enhancing website content with in-depth database reporting and technology-driven visual display of information.
“Think interactive graphics and maps,” Dimmick said. “Journalists today have infinitely more tools to convey information. Beyond the critical words and photography, the Rivard Report will start using these tools to more thoroughly and efficiently tell important stories with big data.”
She hopes to become more of a technologist, but journalism will always be at the core of her career path.
“I have a lot to learn and I’m incredibly grateful that Bob [Rivard] and our board support this new pursuit,” Dimmick said. “I’ll be able to grow as a journalist and the Rivard Report will grow as a publication.”
The Rivard Report is member-supported, and also derives significant revenue from advertising, events, foundation grants, and philanthropists. The Rivard Report is a member of the Institute of Nonprofit News, the Online News Association, and other professional organizations. Its employees adhere to the ethics policy established by the Society of Professional Journalists.
The board of directors, led by Chairman Richard “Dick” Schlosberg III, includes members with substantial experience in media publishing and a record of support for national, regional, and local nonprofit media. The editor-in-chief will attend and participate in all board meetings and interact regularly with directors, and join with the publisher and others representing the Rivard Report in the community and the industry.
The position includes a competitive salary and healthcare plan, generous vacation time, health club membership, and a number of other benefits. Interested applicants should send a letter of interest with résumé to apply@rivardreport.com.
