The American Hospital Association (AHA) is a national organization that represents and serves all types of hospitals, health care networks, and their patients and communities. We are currently seeking a Staff Writer for Health Forum (a for-profit subsidiary of the AHA) in our Chicago office.

Purpose

The staff writer will assist editorial staff in creating content for the Trustee brand, a publication covering leadership and governance trends and best practices for hospital and health system boards of directors and CEOs. Content is published via print, digital, e-newsletters, Twitter and other social media channels. Key responsibilities include reporting and writing monthly feature, developing content in the news section, managing unsolicited submissions, and optimizing social and multimedia channels with the editor.

Essential Functions

1. Monthly: Report and write a feature for Trustee magazine. (Approximately 2,500 words on a topic to be determined with editor); prepare and send electronic newsletter, using multi-media format; proofread copy (this is a team effort with editor and copy editor/proofreader).
2. Develop and manage news section, including 3-4 short articles. With editor, plans content. With designer, plans presentation of content.
3. Manage unsolicited submissions process by logging submissions, corresponding with potential authors and tracking topic areas.
4. Write quarterly trustee profiles for new feature being launched.
5. Social and multimedia: Produce minimum of three tweets per day; help to maximize SEO and optimize social media opportunities with editor.
6. Conduct video interviews and edit for posting.

Performance Metrics: Meet number and quality metrics for editorial stories: (a) feature articles will reflect a depth of understanding, will include a variety of sources and will be accompanied by appropriate data, case examples and sidebars; (b) news items will present an issue concisely, accurately and include appropriate sources per issue. Both will incorporate SEO principles. Degree of facility in moving material online, preparing e-newsletters for distribution and conducting video interviews. Number, variety and consistency of social media activity (Twitter, etc). Meet key deadlines for editorial stories and response metrics for administrative processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, English.
• 3-5 years experience in newspaper, magazine or trade journal publishing; experience writing for print, digital and social media channels; experience covering health care, nonprofit or corporate boards of directors strongly desired; multimedia experience preferred.
• A thorough understanding of print and digital publishing; thorough knowledge of AP Stylebook and rules of grammar, punctuation and proofreading; social media savvy; knowledge of health care, business and/or nonprofit organization issues and trends preferred.
• Comfortable working in the Mac environment and with Microsoft Office programs; familiarity with a content management system; knowledge of Dreamweaver and publishing software desired; knowledge of or interest in shooting and editing video.
• Excellent writing skills and ability to create engaging content; strong research and interviewing skills.
• Excellent planning and time-management skills.
• Ability to meet deadlines and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong attention to detail; comfortable working with editors and internal and external experts; good problem-solving skills, as well as good listening and communication skills.

Benefits

We offer an excellent total compensation package, which includes medical/dental coverage (PPO/HMO), vision care, life insurance, short and long-term disability plans, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, paid vacation/holidays/sick days, wellness programs and more!

The American Hospital Association (AHA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer: EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, protected veteran status or disability. We will provide reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

The AHA participates in the E-Verify Program.