Managing Editor

Career Guide

A Managing Editor oversees the day to day production of content for a publication or content team. They set the editorial calendar, manage editors and writers, uphold quality standards, and ensure content ships on time and matches the publication’s voice and goals.

Key Responsibilities

Own the editorial calendar and publishing schedule
Assign stories and content projects to writers and editors
Edit for clarity, structure, accuracy, and tone
Maintain editorial standards and style guidelines
Manage workflow from pitch to publication
Coordinate with design, audience, and product partners
Review headlines, summaries, and page layouts for quality
Coach writers and editors through feedback and training
Track performance results and adjust coverage priorities
Manage corrections, updates, and content governance

Top Skills for Success

Line Editing

Copy Editing

Content Strategy

Editorial Judgment

Story Development

Headline Writing

Fact Checking

Style Guide Management

Workflow Management

People Management

Stakeholder Communication

Data Literacy

Search Optimization

Content Management Systems

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Editor in Chief

Editorial Director

Head of Content

Content Strategy Director

Audience Director

Transition Opportunities

Content Operations Manager

Program Manager

Communications Director

Brand Director

Product Marketing Manager

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Performance ReportingSearch OptimizationEditorial OperationsBudget ManagementChange ManagementCross Functional LeadershipContent GovernanceAudience Development

Development SuggestionsBuild a simple weekly dashboard that tracks traffic, engagement, and conversions. Lead one workflow improvement project such as intake, assignment, or editing standards. Partner with an audience specialist to set targets for search and newsletter growth, then document what changes drive results.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry LevelUSD 70,000 to 95,000

Mid LevelUSD 95,000 to 130,000

Senior LevelUSD 130,000 to 180,000

Growth Trend

Stable demand with shifts toward digital first publishing, audience growth, and content operations. Openings are strongest at organizations with frequent publishing and clear revenue goals.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

The New York TimesThe Washington PostThe Wall Street JournalBloombergReutersCondé NastVox MediaDotdash MeredithGannettHearstNetflixSpotify

Industry Sectors

News and JournalismMagazines and Lifestyle MediaBusiness MediaTechnology MediaEntertainment MediaStreaming and AudioCorporate CommunicationsEducation PublishingNonprofit PublishingMarketing Agencies

Recommended Next Steps

Create a portfolio that shows before and after edits and explains impact

Write and publish an editorial standards document and a style guide update

Run a quarterly content planning process with clear themes and deadlines

Practice coaching by giving structured feedback and tracking improvement

Learn basic performance reporting and set measurable publishing goals

Strengthen collaboration with design, audience, and product partners

Prepare interview stories that show prioritization under tight deadlines