Associate Editor/Communications Specialist

About the Role

The Associate Editor/Communications Specialist supports the editorial production of Hereford World and Baldy Advantage, working closely with the executive editor and senior editor. This role also collaborates with the American Hereford Association (AHA) Communications and the 1881 Creative team to develop communications assets, press releases, digital content, and brand initiatives. The position is based at the AHA headquarters in Kansas City, Mo., and requires approximately three weeks of travel annually, with the possibility of additional travel for events and content gathering.

Key Responsibilities

• Proofread, edit, and fact-check editorial content for Hereford World and Baldy Advantage.
• Manage multiple projects to meet strict monthly publication deadlines.
• Serve as a liaison between the editorial department and internal AHA/1881 teams for clear communication and workflow.
• Assist in writing, editing, and proofreading articles to AP, AHA, and 1881 style, including feature stories, press releases, member communications, and organizational content.
• Report directly to the executive editor and work closely with the senior editor.
• Assist in the development, proofreading, and distribution of Association press releases, including publication across digital and social media platforms.
• Coordinate cover photography and imagery for Hereford World and Baldy Advantage.
• Capture and organize photos from members, events, and shows for AHA and 1881 marketing materials.
• Assist with tracking, editing, and publishing sale reports and show reports across print and digital platforms.
• Maintain strong organization and communication to coordinate projects with multiple departments.
• Work collaboratively with the director of seedstock marketing and AHA field staff to gather editorial content and promote member activities.
• Attend AHA-sponsored events, national and regional breed functions, and industry events to cover events and gather editorial content, photos, and member stories.
• Support branding initiatives, photography needs, and social media campaigns.
• Collaborate with 1881 Creative staff and the Communications team on editorial projects, marketing initiatives, and organizational messaging.
• Coordinate and write Association press releases and content to cover events and meetings (e.g., profiling award winners, reporting competition results).
• Help edit and proofread AHA Communications materials, such as e-newsletters.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• News and feature writing skills, including clear, concise copy in an active voice.
• Editing and proofreading ability with knowledge of AP style and proper grammar.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple deadlines.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment; a self-starter who can work independently.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality editorial content.
• Experience with photography and image editing.
• Experience with social media management and content creation.
• Ability to assist with website updates using WordPress.
• Basic understanding of the Adobe Creative Suite is strongly preferred.
• Interest in the beef cattle industry, agriculture, or livestock publications is preferred.