Executive Director, Investigative Reporters & Editors

Journalism Enhancing Programs

Investigative Reporters & Editors is looking for an executive director with the vision to lead the world's largest organization supporting investigative and data journalism. The position involves overseeing a dynamic organization with more than 4,200 members internationally, 13 staff members and dozens of volunteer contributors, as well as serving as a staff member at the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.

For more than 50 years, IRE - a nonprofit organization - has led the journalism industry in supporting and training journalists and college students in techniques for investigative reporting and data analysis. The organization runs the world's biggest conferences on investigative and data journalism - known respectively as IRE and NICAR. IRE provides training and resources for journalists in news organizations of all sizes, from rural U.S. communities to cities across the globe. Its website, ire.org, offers a growing portfolio of training tools, tipsheets, video tutorials and an extensive library of resources.

The right candidate will have experience in investigative journalism, management and fundraising, and an enthusiasm for evangelizing on behalf of investigative journalism and raising funds to support that mission. IRE is located in Columbia, Missouri, where candidates may have the option of moving or working remotely. This position may include teaching two classes per year at the School of Journalism. The position also involves considerable travel, both domestically and internationally. Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Specific responsibilities include:

Oversee the continuing evolution of IRE's renowned training programs and national conferences, press freedom support efforts, publications and website, as well as overseeing the National Institute for Computer-Assisted Reporting

Manage a staff of 13 employees, plus graduate and undergraduate student workers and volunteers

Plan and supervise financial matters, including IRE's $3 million budget and its $8.5 million endowment

Raise funds, including seeking grants and donations

Report to a 13-member elected Board of Directors

Serve as the public face for the organization

Hold a staff position at the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism

Full-time, Monday-Friday, 8-5, Central Time, with occasional weekend and evening hours.

A Master's degree in a relevant area and 10 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired OR a Bachelor's degree in a relevant area and 12 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

Experience working with nonprofit organizations

Experience working for a news outlet or news-supporting organization

Solid credentials in journalism, with preference given for experience in investigative and/or data reporting or editing

Managerial experience and navigating related opportunities and challenges

Fundraising/development experience

Salary Range: $145,000- $165,000 annually
Grade: E1B
University Title: Executive Director
Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Applicants must submit a resume, a statement no longer than two pages of your vision for the organization - including your approach to fundraising with past experience cited - as well as relevant material or samples that demonstrate work in investigative or data journalism. The names and contact information for three to four references should also be provided.

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.