Red Angus Magazine- Managing Editor - Red Angus Association of America

Full-Time • Remote • Closes March 31

Job Summary

The Managing Editor of Red Angus Magazine is responsible for leading the execution of the association’s flagship publication, from editorial concept and story development to final design, layout, and print delivery. This role owns the magazine in its entirety, shaping both the written content and the visual presentation to ensure each issue is engaging, on-brand, and reflective of the strength and progress of the Red Angus breed.

This position blends strategic editorial leadership with hands-on design execution. The Managing Editor develops the editorial calendar, writes and edits content, manages contributors, and personally leads the layout and visual flow of each issue. The ideal candidate is both a strong storyteller and an organized visual thinker who understands how design, photography, typography, and editorial voice work together to create a best-in-class industry publication.

Primary Focus

Own Red Angus Magazine from concept to mailbox, driving its evolution into a best-in-class industry publication.

Key Responsibilities

Magazine Design & Layout Execution – 30%

• Lead the full visual design and layout of each magazine issue.

• Design page layouts, typography systems and visual storytelling elements that enhance readability and engagement.

• Select and place photography, graphics and visual assets to support editorial content.

• Ensure a cohesive, modern and industry-leading visual identity throughout the publication.

• Prepare print-ready files and coordinate with printers to ensure quality, accuracy and prompt delivery. 

• Adapt feature stories, columns and special sections for web, email and social media platforms.

• Collaborate with advertising and sponsorship staff to plan ad placement within each issue.

• Balance editorial integrity with advertising commitments to maximum page yield and reader value.

• Design & integrate advertisements in a way that complements editorial flow and maintains visual quality.

• Evaluate reader engagement, feedback and industry response to content and design.

• Monitor publication performance, advertising retention and production efficiency.

• Recommend enhancements to storytelling, layout strategy and production workflows.

Writing, Editing & Content Development – 25%

• Write, edit and refine feature articles, columns, captions and special sections as needed.

• Maintain strict adherence to AP style, editorial best practices and brand tone.

• Review and fact-check all content to ensure clarity, accuracy and consistency.

• Provide editorial guidance and direction to freelance writers and contributors.

  
  

Production & Project Management – 15%

• Manage publication workflow from concept through final print distribution.

• Establish and maintain production schedules to ensure consistent on-time publication.

• Coordinate with printing vendors regarding specifications, deadlines and proof approvals.

• Maintain organized system for version control, asset management and production tracking.

• Lead editorial planning and design execution for special projects and strategic publications.

Creative Services Development & Member Support – 10%

• Help develop and grow an internal creative services function that supports association initiatives and generates revenue.

• Collaborate with membership and advertising teams to provide design and content support for high-quality member advertisements.

• Offer creative guidance to breeders and partners to ensure ads meet brand standards and publication quality expectations.

• Identify opportunities to expand creative services offerings that enhance member value while strengthening the magazine’s visual and editorial excellence.

Editorial Strategy & Content Leadership – 10%

• Maintain the editorial vision, voice and direction of Red Angus Magazine.

• Manage the annual editorial Calander, including themes, feature planning and issue objectives.

• Identify compelling stories that promote the Red Angus breed, membership initiatives and industry leadership.

• Ensure all content aligns with association priorities, brand standards and strategic plan. 

Contributor & Freelancer Management – 10%

• Recruit, assign and manage freelance writer, photographers and industry contributors.

• Provide clear story direction, deadlines and editorial expectations.

• Edit submitted content for voice, clarity and alignments with editorial strategy.

• Cultivate a strong network of trusted contributors across the cattle industry.

  
  

SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES

• Exceptional writing, editing and storytelling ability with a strong command of AP style.

• Advanced publication design and layout skills, including typography, visual hierarchy and page compositions

• Highly organized and deadline-driven with the ability to manage complex production timelines.

• Strong visual judgment and an eye for detail to ensure a polished and professional publication.

• Strategic thinker who can translate association priorities into compelling editorial content.

• Ability to balance editorial integrity with advertising and sponsor considerations.

• Confident communicator capable of working with breeders, industry leaders, contributors and staff.

• Self-motivated and adaptable with the ability to work independently.

• Strong interpersonal skills & professionalism when representing the breed at industry events.

• Analytical mindset with the ability to evaluate reader feedback, engagement and publication performance.

• Creative problem-solver who can continuously elevate both content quality and visual presentation.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Editorial Leadership – Ability to develop and execute a cohesive editorial vision that aligns with association goals, promotes the breed effectively and maintains a consistent voice across all content.

• Publication Design & Visual Storytelling – Expertise in designing engaging magazine layouts that integrate photography, graphics and typography to enhance readability and reader engagement.

• Industry Awareness & Relationship Building – Strong understanding of the cattle industry and ability to build relationships with breeders, advertisers and industry partners to source relevant content and strengthen the magazines reputation.

• Digital & Cross-Platform Integration – Capacity to collaborate with digital team to repurpose editorial content across web, email and social platforms, ensuring consistent and expanded reach.

• Creative Direction & Brand Stewardship – Ability to uphold brand standards while guiding both editorial content and visual design to ensure the magazine reflects a modern, cohesive and industry-leading image.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, graphic design or related field or equivalent experience.

• 3+ years of experience in publication design & layout, writing and ad design.

• Strong writing, editing and storytelling skills.

• Proven experience in publication design and editorial layout.

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite.

• Deep understanding of AP style and editorial best practices.

• Exceptional organizational and project management abilities.

• Ability to manage multiple deadlines, contributors and production timelines simultaneously.

• Understanding of the beef industry, seedstock sector or breed associations preferred.

• Strong visual judgment with an eye for typography, photography and page composition.

Learn more and apply here.