When a long-time staffer retired, I took on the new job of managing editor. My first task was saving the magazine — and convincing leadership it was worth doing. I proposed a complete re-vamp to revise the content, design, and approach. 

I led the marketing group’s writers and graphic designers—none of whom had publishing experience—to take surveys, hold focus groups, brainstorm ideas, create a relevant brand, and develop a new concept. 

We built a mock-up and pitched an entirely new magazine with practical content that would help staff do their jobs better, involve readers by soliciting content from the field, and boost engagement by connecting the highly mobile workforce. We were given approval for one year.

My ongoing work included:

• topic development & story creation

• managing the editorial calendar

• managing the publishing schedule

• assigning and editing writers' work (both professional writer and staff contributors)

• approving drafts

• ghostwriting articles and the president's letter