FOX4, the Nexstar station in Kansas City, MO, is looking for an experienced Assistant News Director to join our winning team. Kansas City is the 34th TV Market, serving more than 2M viewers. WDAF-TV is the legacy station in the market and #1 in the target demo in all newscasts.

The qualified candidate will play a pivotal role in our mission to inform and engage our audience. The Assistant News Director will collaborate closely with the News Director to oversee all aspects of newscasts, weather, digital and sports.  

The Assistant News Director is a key leadership role in the newsroom, supporting the News Director in managing daily news operations, strategic planning, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality news content. This role is critical for maintaining the station’s competitive edge and ensuring journalistic integrity.

Key Responsibilities:

Editorial Leadership

Assist in setting the editorial direction and tone for all news contentOversee daily news gathering and production processEnsure content is accurate, fair and follows station standards and guidelines

Staff Management

Support recruitment, training, and development of newsroom staffProvide feedback, conduct performance reviews, and foster a collaborative team environmentCoordinate with producers, reporters, and other news staff to optimize workflow and efficiencyEnsure appropriate staffing based on programming and newscast needs, managing and monitoring PTO

Strategic Planning

Assist in developing and implementing strategies to grow viewership and market shareStay in tune with industry trends and emerging technologies to help the newsroom innovateHelp create special programming and coverage plans for major events

Content Quality Assurance

Review scripts, segments, and overall newscasts for quality controlEnsure compliance with FCC regulations and other legal standardsMaintain high standards for visual and audio quality

Crisis Management

Assist in coordinating coverage of breaking news and emergency situationsEnsure the newsroom is prepared for coverage of major stories, including natural disasters and political eventsMaintain calm and decisive leadership during high-pressure situationsAddress viewer feedback and concerns promptly and effectively. Elevate to News Director and General Manager as appropriate.

Essential Skills and Qualifications

At least five years in a newsroom environment, with a proven track record and a minimum of two years in leadershipBachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, or a related fieldProficiency with newsroom software, digital platforms, and social mediaStrong leadership and team-building skills; ability to motivate and inspire a diverse teamExcellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to articulate vision and strategy clearlyStrong editorial judgment and the ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressureAbility to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously