Taking a new job
Just wanted to let you know that I've accepted a new position on staff
at SPJ. Beginning Monday I'll be working part-time (still from home) as
Membership Manager of SPJ. My charge is to develop strategies that will
maximize member recruitment and retention. I'll also be a point person
for chapter development and revitalization.
I've been in
discussion with Executive Director Terry Harper about this position for
several months. He felt very strongly that the staff lacked a working
journalist who could "sell" SPJ to other journalists. There will still
be an internal person in Indianapolis who will manage membership
applications and the database. My job is more strategic.
I'm
excited to be working with a new team at HQ that includes the
marketing/communications director Beth King, new Webmaster Billy
O'Keefe, Quill editor Joe Skeel and deputy executive director Chris
Vachon.
The position is still somewhat amorphous, but some of
my responsibilities include improving communications between national
and chapters, analyzing member needs in terms of services and programs,
and spreading the word about SPJ among working journalists at news
organizations and independently.
I view this job largely as an
extension of the kind of work I've done through the Freelance
Committee, and it gives me the freedom and flexibility to continue my
work as a freelance journalist.
I will continue to serve as
chair of the freelance committee for the time being, though I would
like over the next year to transition that position into several
co-chairs. It has really taken on a life of its own. It's an important
role and keeps building and expanding practically weekly. I'd like to
begin the process of building more voluntary support from among the
ranks so that its stewardship transitions smoothly to others just as
passionate about freelancing and SPJ.
Your input and suggestions are welcome. Send them to whoke@spj.org.