We are hiring a leader at kqed to help define the point of view that guides technology content across all our platforms: radio and podcast programming, digital video, newsletters, live events, and more. This person will animate kqed's technology coverage, and cultivate a distinctive editorial sensibility that distinguishes our work in a crowded media landscape.
It's an awesome job!
Title: editorial director, technology vertical
schedule & format - location: hybrid - san francisco
pay: $129,776 - $162,220
position summary: the editorial director, technology vertical, is a senior content leadership role at kqed charged with shaping the editorial vision, voice, and identity of our technology vertical—establishing kqed as a distinctive, authoritative source of journalism on silicon valley's impact on society.
Initially reporting to the editor in chief, this leader defines the point of view that guides technology content across platforms: radio and podcast programming, digital video, newsletters, live events, and more. The editorial director sets priorities, identifies the themes and questions that animate kqed's technology coverage, and cultivates a distinctive editorial sensibility that distinguishes our work in a crowded media landscape. They work hands‑on with reporters, hosts and other journalists to develop their voices, shape content for maximum editorial impact, and maintain the journalistic standards that reflect kqed's public service mission.
Beyond defining the scope and nature of kqed’s tech journalism, the editorial director is responsible for the strategic growth and sustainability of the vertical. This includes working closely with the chief operating officer and partnering with audience research, marketing, product, revenue, and operations teams to align editorial ambitions with organizational goals—ensuring that strong journalism also drives audience growth, community engagement, and long‑term viability.
Initially, the editorial director manages a team of 3+ producers and staff, and will help coordinate and collaborate internally to develop a new conversation‑driven podcast and radio program that defines a distinctive, bay area‑rooted approach to the urgent task of understanding and explaining the stakes of technology today. This includes guiding editorial development from pitch through production, ensuring each piece of content serves a clear audience need and advances the vertical's editorial identity. Eventually this role will manage additional staff and journalists.
Essential functions:
editorial leadership
develop a distinctive editorial voice that differentiates kqed's technology coverage
guide editorial direction across radio, podcast, video, newsletter, and event platforms
collaborate with on‑air talent to shape programming and build audience loyalty
ensure coverage balances innovation with accountability
editorial management & team leadership
oversee the 3+ person team producing a new conversation‑based technology podcast
plans include eventual oversight and management of expanded tech editorial tech, including reporters
foster a collaborative culture that embraces experimentation
recruit, mentor, and evaluate staff as the vertical evolves
cross‑functional partnership
work closely with marketing to build audience awareness and brand recognition for the vertical
work closely with heads of product, live events, and television/video on development on new offerings
partner with revenue teams including corporate sponsorship to develop sustainable funding streams. Collaborate with membership to drive conversion and engagement
coordinate with operations to ensure efficient workflows and resource allocation
integrate with broader newsroom and content teams as appropriate
business development & sustainability
manage the vertical's operating budget
work with revenue leads on setting and achieving revenue goals
track and report on audience, revenue, and engagement metrics
identify opportunities for growth, partnership, and national distribution
represent the vertical internally and externally
knowledge/experience required
bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required
8+ years of experience in journalism or media, with focus on technology coverage
5+ years of leadership experience managing teams
track record of building audience‑focused content brands
knowledge of the technology industry and silicon valley ecosystem
experience working cross‑functionally with business units (marketing, revenue, operations)
strong communication skills and ability to influence across organizational levels
commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
preferred qualifications
experience in public media or mission‑driven organizations
portfolio demonstrating original editorial perspective on technology
experience with multi‑platform content strategy
network of relationships in the technology community
knowledge of membership and underwriting revenue models
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