Managing Editor Career Guide

A Managing Editor directs the editorial operations of a publication, digital platform, or media division. On a typical day they plan and approve content calendars, assign and edit stories, manage and mentor editors and reporters, coordinate with product, design, audience, and commercial teams, enforce editorial policies and style, track deadlines and budgets, and use analytics to refine content strategy. They balance quality, speed, legal/ethical standards, and audience objectives while fostering team development and cross-functional alignment.

What skills does a Managing Editor need?

Editorial judgment and copyeditingPeople leadership and team developmentContent strategy and audience developmentProject and workflow management (scheduling, CMS)Data literacy and analytics for editorial decision-makingStrong written and verbal communicationLegal/ethical knowledge (copyright, libel, sourcing)

How do I become a Managing Editor?

Get foundational education and training

Earn a bachelor's degree or complete reputable journalism/media courses. Build core skills in reporting, writing, editing, AP style, and digital publishing tools. Take internships to gain newsroom experience.

Build a portfolio and practical experience

Work as a reporter, copyeditor or staff writer to accumulate published work. Learn CMS platforms, SEO basics, and analytics. Seek freelance and internship opportunities to diversify your portfolio.

Move into senior editorial roles

Progress to roles like section editor, senior editor, or lead editor. Start managing small teams, owning editorial calendars, and shaping content strategy while demonstrating reliability and leadership.

Develop leadership and cross-functional skills

Gain experience in performance management, budgeting, stakeholder coordination (product, marketing, legal), and data-driven decision making. Mentor junior staff and run complex projects.

Secure a Managing Editor position

Leverage your portfolio, leadership outcomes, and network to pursue managing editor roles. Prepare examples of editorial impact, process improvements, and team growth for interviews.

What education do you need to become a Managing Editor?

Recommended: Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, English, or Media Studies. Alternatives include degrees in related fields plus targeted coursework or bootcamps (editing, digital publishing, analytics). Hands-on experience—reporting, copyediting, and editorial leadership—often outweighs formal education. Consider an advanced degree (MA) or specialized certifications for competitive roles.

Recommended Certifications for Managing Editors

Poynter ACES Certificate in Editing
Columbia Journalism School Executive Education (Editing/Leadership)
Google Analytics Individual Qualification (GAIQ)
HubSpot Content Marketing Certification

Managing Editor Job Outlook & Demand

Demand for experienced managing editors will remain steady over the next decade as publishers and digital platforms prioritize high-quality, trustworthy content and audience retention. While newsroom headcounts may fluctuate with industry consolidation, roles that combine editorial leadership with digital strategy, analytics, and product collaboration will see continued growth. Candidates who can lead cross-functional teams and optimize multi-platform workflows will be most in demand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Managing Editor

What does a Managing Editor do?

A Managing Editor oversees day-to-day editorial operations, manages editorial calendars and staff, enforces style and quality standards, coordinates cross-team workflows, and ensures content meets strategic goals.

How long does it take to become a Managing Editor?

Typically 5–10 years: start with reporting or junior editing roles, build a portfolio and leadership experience, then progress through senior editor and section head positions to a managing editor role.

What skills are most important for a Managing Editor?

Top skills include editorial judgment, people management, content strategy, project and workflow management, strong written and verbal communication, and familiarity with analytics and publishing tools.

Do I need a journalism degree to become a Managing Editor?

A journalism or communications degree is helpful but not mandatory; many managing editors succeed through relevant experience, a strong portfolio, industry training, and demonstrated leadership.