Freelance Digital Writer - Editor at Versant in Stamford, CT

Job description

Versant Sports is hiring a Freelance Digital Writer/Editor who will be a part of our growing team of digital content creators and publishers on the Sports digital team. This role requires day to day content creation and distribution of all original sports written editorial and video content across Versant Sports platforms, with a priority on Golf Channel and other sports as assigned. The ideal candidate is creative, adaptable, and efficient at writing, editing and optimizing digital-first Sports content for distribution across site, app, social media and mobile optimized platforms. You will package Golf Channel’s written and video content in a manner that maximizes reach while prioritizing editorial accuracy. You’ll also be assigned other sports editorial articles in line with Versant’s Sports priorities.   This is a project based / limited term position with an estimated duration of up to 12 months, unless otherwise amended or terminated as deliverables within this project are completed.   Responsibilities:  Write and edit SEO-optimized sports articles, headlines and captions that drive page views and discovery Ability to work in a fast-paced sports environment and write and edit multiple articles quickly on deadline, often throughout live event coverage   A strong familiarity with Golf and covering Golf related news is required, as well as ease in writing for multiple other sports genres including: basketball, volleyball, soccer and other Versant Sports priorities Create, edit and publish tournament- and news-related content as assigned   Writer/editors should have strong handle on editorial judgement and use performance metrics to drive reach and engagement on the content they’re creating. A good sense of what will perform well for sports and golf audiences is required   Manage the presentation of content across Versant Sports sites including Golf Channel and USA Sports homepages and sports brand-specific pages  Manage video publishing and livestream presentation on the Golf Channel main site and on the Sports App  Assist in the ideation, creation and execution of sales / sponsored content Excellent grammar and fact checking are required   Package Golf Channel written and video content on our digital platforms to maximize reach and prioritize editorial accuracy  Plan around key properties and tentpole events to develop coverage strategies and ensure coordination between linear broadcasts and digital teams  Contribute to team brainstorms by pitching content ideas that will help build on-site and off-site traffic and audience  Support relationships with partner platforms   Juggle multiple projects with parallel timelines Basic Qualifications:  BA or BS from a four-year accredited college or university or equivalent experience  Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in digital editorial, content creation and distribution at a sports or media company, publisher or content agency Strong writing, editing and content packaging skills with a clear sense of voice by audience and platform  Experience working with CMS platforms, SEO basics and analytics dashboards  Solid editorial judgment and engagement with multiple digital properties  Firm understanding of digital storytelling, audience development and distribution best practices  Clear communication skills and ability to work collaboratively  Keen attention to detail and ability to prioritize across multiple concurrent leagues and events  Familiarity with a digital ecosystem and ability to learn and master multiple technical platforms  Strong copy editing skills, ability to self-edit your own work  Ability to work efficiently under pressure and meet deadlines  Willingness to be an individual contributor while working within a team environment and contribute to the overall brand’s growth and success  Eligibility Requirements:  I