ChainLinks is CAN's quarterly magazine. As well as being an important benefit of paid membership, the magazine is an important way for CAN to inform readers, allow members to share experiences, and to define its public image.

This role description is to be read in conjunction with the ChainLinks Editor Guidelines (separate document) and the ChainLinks Editorial Policy and Advertising Policy (see www.can.org.nz/chainlinks for details).

The ChainLinks Editor is appointed by the Executive. It is not essential for the postholder to also be on the Executive.

Role:

• work with the Contributions Manager to determine magazine content
• write editorials (this role can be shared with others in CAN, e.g. Exec members)
• lay out text and photos/graphics
• liaise with printer, Membership Secretary and Mailout Co-ordinator re distribution

Duties:

• together with the Contributions Manager maintain an annual timetable for production of ChainLinks (including contributions and other deadlines)
• work with the Contributions Manager to help source and shape the content (including themes, regular and special features)
• write editorials (or via the Contributions Manager solicit editorials from others, e.g. Exec members)
• liaise with the Networking Project Manager on paid advertising
• receive content via the Contributions Manager and select material for inclusion
• lay out the magazine, using templates from previous issues as appropriate
• send the draft to the Editorial Board for comment and make changes as necessary
• liaise with the Membership Secretary and Networking Project Manager regarding print numbers
• send the final version to the printer and to the Webmaster (this may change with the new website - the Editor will probably post the newsletter herself or himself)

Desired qualities/experience:

• literate
• well organised & good at working to deadlines
• Internet access
• familiarity with desktop publishing software
• CAN member

Accountabilities:

• CAN Executive

Support/working relationships:

• Contributions Manager
• ChainLinks Editorial Board
• Webmaster
• Executive
• some training will be made available (e.g. use of software) as appropriate

Time commitment:

• varies during the year, but averages x hours per issue (spread over x weeks)

Rewards:

• honorarium of $500 per issue
• furthering a good cause and working with great people

[updated September 2008]