News Director

Overview

Montana State University Billings (MSUB) and Yellowstone Public Radio (YPR) are seeking a News Director to lead YPR’s editorial direction, news production, and digital presence. Under the direction of the General Manager, the News Director will establish short- and long-term goals for news, maintain editorial integrity, manage daily planning and editing of stories, oversee a team of reporters and freelancers, coordinate with NPR, and support content-sharing opportunities with other stations.

The position requires on-air hosting backup and strong leadership in a fast-paced environment.

• Develop, create, and implement YPR’s news reporting strategies and goals.
• Manage the development, production, and editing of regional news programming for broadcast and digital platforms.
• Direct a team of news reporters and freelance content providers; plan specials and series; supervise coverage of statewide elections and state legislative sessions.
• Schedule and implement news content for broadcast and digital platforms; oversee social media contributions.
• Supervise news department employees, student workers, and interns; assign stories; supervise training and evaluate performance.
• Oversee equipment purchases related to news reporting and ensure editorial integrity and professionalism.
• Maintain editorial standards; direct factual reporting; supervise corrections and retractions as needed.
• Coordinate with NPR; share content with Montana Public Radio; explore NPR best practices and collaboration opportunities.
• Direct on-air news hosts; provide coaching and act as substitute host when necessary.
• Participate in additional duties as assigned; engage in on-air fundraising weeks and public appearances.
• Adhere to essential duties plan; be on-call and work irregular hours as circumstances dictate.

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism or a related field.
• At least five (5) years of professional broadcast experience, preferably in public media.
• Supervisory/leadership experience or demonstrated leadership skills.
• Ability to work within a budget and contribute to budgeting discussions.
• Strong, clear communication skills including writing and editing.
• Excellent organizational skills and interpersonal abilities.
• Decision-making and problem-solving skills; ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to develop content for broadcast and for web and social media.
• Experience in reporting including interviews, on-air, and breaking news.
• Valid driver’s license.

• Experience supervising staff within a media field.
• Experience working in public radio/media.
• Experience with live radio operation.

• Develops, creates, and implements YPR’s news reporting strategies and goals; manages news programming and direction.
• Oversees editorial integrity, reporting accuracy, and publishing guidelines; coordinates with listeners and handles corrections.
• Oversees day-to-day meetings, source development, fact-checking, and transitions from broadcast to digital formats; coordinates social media and cross-station sharing.
• Represents YPR in communications with NPR; seeks opportunities for awards and partnerships.
• Directs on-air hosts and provides coaching; serves as substitute host when needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned and participates in fundraising weeks and public appearances.
• This position is essential and high priority; must be on-call and work irregular hours as necessary.

• Reasonable accommodations available to perform essential duties.
• Mandatory reporting obligations for Title IX and related policies.
• Campus safety information and annual security report available on the MSUB Police website.
• This institution is an equal opportunity employer.
• Background checks are required prior to employment offers.
• This position is not eligible for sponsorship.