Hiring: Managing Editor, Social Media—The Athletic UK
At The Athletic, we believe that sports are more than just games — they’re stories, communities, and passions that unite people across generations. Since our founding, we’ve redefined how sports journalism is experienced by creating in-depth, insightful, and subscription-based content across multiple sports and regions. Now, as we continue to grow our footprint in the UK, we’re looking for a creative and strategic Managing Editor, Social Media to lead our social storytelling efforts and connect with millions of fans where they live — online.
If you’re a seasoned social media leader who understands how to turn quality journalism into engaging content across platforms — and you’re passionate about football (and beyond) — this could be your next big move.
About Social Media
As Managing Editor, Social Media, you will be the strategic and creative force behind The Athletic UK’s social media presence. You’ll lead a team of social producers and editors to craft compelling content that drives traffic, builds community, and strengthens The Athletic’s brand. Reporting into the Global Director of Social Media, you’ll work cross-functionally with editorial, video, audience development, and marketing teams to align social efforts with broader business goals.
You won’t just be chasing trends — you’ll be shaping them. Your role is to ensure that The Athletic’s voice on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and emerging channels is distinctive, engaging, and grounded in journalistic excellence.
Key Responsibilities of Social Media
- Lead and manage the UK social media editorial team, setting daily priorities and ensuring high-quality execution across platforms.
- Develop and execute social content strategies tailored for UK audiences, while aligning with global brand standards.
- Work closely with journalists and editors to identify the most compelling stories and ensure their maximum reach via social media.
- Plan and oversee real-time coverage of live sporting events, breaking news, and trending topics with speed, accuracy, and creativity.
- Use data and insights to continuously refine our content strategy, measuring engagement, reach, and conversion impact.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including video, podcast, design, and marketing to produce multimedia assets for social.
- Ensure a strong brand voice and visual identity across all UK-facing social content.
About You
You’re a social media native who understands both the creative and analytical sides of the role. You can move seamlessly from ideation to execution, and you know how to mentor and lead a high-performing team. You’re not afraid to take calculated risks, and you stay calm under pressure when news breaks.
You don’t just follow trends — you understand the ‘why’ behind them, and you know when to engage and when to lead.
What We’re Looking For Social Media
- Proven experience in managing social media teams within a media, news, or digital publishing environment — ideally 5+ years.
- Deep knowledge of UK sports culture, with a strong emphasis on football, and familiarity with sports fans’ behavior online.
- Exceptional editorial judgment and the ability to translate long-form journalism into short-form, platform-native content.
- Experience using analytics tools (e.g., CrowdTangle, Chartbeat, Sprout Social, or similar) to track performance and guide decisions.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and match days as needed.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- A collaborative spirit and experience working cross-functionally in a fast-paced environment.
What You’ll Bring
- A passion for sports, storytelling, and innovation in digital media.
- A reader-first mindset: you think about how to serve fans and inform communities through creative storytelling.
- Strong project management and organizational skills.
- Fluency in internet culture, memes, and tone — but with a filter rooted in journalistic ethics and credibility.
- An understanding of the UK media landscape and how to stand out in a crowded content environment.
Why Join Social Media Us
- Impact – Your work will help shape how millions of fans engage with The Athletic’s content.
- Creativity – We embrace fresh ideas and bold thinking; no cookie-cutter templates here.
- Collaboration – Work with a world-class team of journalists, editors, producers, and marketers.
- Growth – The Athletic is part of The New York Times Company, offering global reach and resources while maintaining a startup spirit.
- Flexibility – Hybrid and remote-friendly workplace with flexible hours and generous time off.
What We Offer in Social Media
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Full benefits package, including health, dental, and pension schemes.
- Access to wellness programs and mental health support.
- Annual learning and development budget.
- Complimentary subscription to The Athletic and The New York Times.
The Athletic is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background. We believe diverse voices make for better stories and a stronger team.