As managing editor I commission, edit and write news and features for our monthly print title, Ethical Corporation magazine, and our website, www.ethicalcorp.com. My job is to make sure all our content is original, informative and valuable for our subscribers. It is also to ensure the magazine is published on time, on budget and to high editorial standards; to grow the print subscriber base; and to keep the website constantly updated to attract new readers.

Every month I commission and edit stories from a team of 25 freelance journalists based all over the world. I myself write about a quarter of the monthly magazine and produce online content such as blogs and podcasts. I work closely with the production and design team on ideas for page layouts and pictures and I approve final pages for press. I also oversee the commercial side of the business, producing copy for subscriptions marketing and negotiating pay with suppliers.

Editing a magazine is hugely rewarding because every month I get to have ideas and see them through to their conclusion. It’s a very creative process. I enjoy getting out to meet big names in the industry too – I recently interviewed the CEO of Timberland, for example. I also speak at conferences and industry events, which helps to nurture contacts who could be good sources for stories.

As magazine or online editor you develop much more than pure journalism skills. An eye for a story and sound editorial judgement are vital for the role. But the job is much more varied than this. One moment you may be grilling Primark about labour conditions in their supply chain, the next you could be helping to sell sponsorship. This role is perfect for anyone planning a career in either journalism or publishing, as it really improves both your editorial and commercial skills. You don’t just write the news, you run the business that writes the news. And what could be better than that?

John Russell,
Managing editor, Ethical Corporation magazine and www.ethicalcorp.com