Managing Editor of Instigate Magazine

Managing Editor of Instigate Magazine – Remote Citygate Network is seeking a Managing Editor to lead the editorial development and production of our award-winning magazine, Instigate. Instigate exists to equip and inspire leaders within life transformation ministries by sharing practical insights, innovative strategies, and stories of impact. Through the voices of CEOs, program directors, and practitioners across our network, the magazine highlights what’s working, elevates collective wisdom, and helps ministries strengthen their effectiveness in addressing homelessness and its root causes.

Overview

The Managing Editor serves as a key contributor to the quality, consistency, and impact of Citygate Network’s Instigate magazine. This role is responsible for managing the full editorial process from concept to publication, ensuring each issue reflects strong storytelling, editorial excellence, alignment with Citygate Network’s mission and brand voice, and is delivered on time. Working closely with the Director of Strategic Communications (Editor-in-Chief), the Managing Editor coordinates writers and contributors and works collaboratively with the Graphic Designer and Advertising Manager to deliver a high-quality publication with clarity and consistency. Scope of Work

• Contractor role supporting ongoing editorial and communications needs
• Primary focus on Instigate magazine (bi-monthly production cycle)
• Additional support for copyediting and proofreading across communications materials as needed
• Estimated workload: As agreed upon in contract; up to ~40 hours/month
• Estimated rate: As agreed upon in contract
• Operates independently while collaborating closely with internal team members

Core Responsibilities

• Editorial Planning & Content Development
• Partner with the Editor-in-Chief to shape each issue’s editorial direction, themes, and content plan
• Build and manage the editorial calendar, assignments, and production timeline
• Solicit, assign, and oversee writers and contributors
• Ensure all content aligns with Citygate Network’s mission, voice, and strategic priorities
• Editorial Execution & Quality Control
• Edit all submitted content for clarity, flow, tone, and structure, using Chicago Style of Writing
• Ensure consistency with Citygate Network style and editorial standards
• Oversee copyediting and proofreading processes, including review and approval of edits
• Workflow & Production Management
• Manage the full editorial workflow from content intake through final publication
• Track deadlines, deliverables, and approvals across all contributors
• Ensure each issue is delivered on time and meets quality expectations
• Design & Proofing
• Provide approved content, editorial context, and art needs to the Graphic Designer to support early design development
• Collaborate with Graphic Designer to ensure alignment between editorial content and visual storytelling, partnering to shape how content is visually expressed while allowing space for creative leadership by the Graphic Designer
• Lead proofing rounds by consolidating feedback, ensuring clarity, and maintaining efficiency in revisions
• Review final layouts for editorial accuracy, clarity, and alignment prior to publication
• Publication & Distribution Support
• Prepare final materials for print and digital distribution
• Coordinate contributor honorariums and submission of required documentation
• Support mailing list coordination and final issue readiness
• Communications Support (Secondary)
• Copyedit and proofread additional Citygate Network communications as assigned

(e.g., emails, web content, print materials, event collateral) Key Functions & Ways of Working

• Operates as the central coordinator of editorial workflow, ensuring clarity across all contributors
• Translates vision into execution—bridging strategy and production
• Follows established processes while identifying opportunities for refinement and efficiency
• Maintains strong communication across stakeholders to reduce rework and ensure alignment
• Exercises sound editorial judgment, proactively addressing gaps, risks, or inconsistencies
• Reports to: Director of Strategic Communications (Editor-in-Chief)
• Graphic Designer
• Advertising Manager
• Copyeditor/Proofreader

Success Indicators Success in this role is defined by:

• High-quality, polished, and aligned editorial content
• Smooth and efficient workflow across contributors
• Clear communication and minimal rework
• Timely delivery of each issue
• Continuous improvement in process and execution
• Maintain award-winning status with the Evangelical Press Association

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