Publication Director Job Description

Position Title: Publication Director (PD)

Company: City Lifestyle [Franchise Name]

Location: [Local City/Remote Option Available]

Employment Type: Part-Time/Full-Time (Flexible Hours Based on Business Needs)

Compensation: Competitive hourly rate (Based on Location)

About Us

City Lifestyle connects local businesses and residents through trusted, high-quality publications tailored to the unique character of each community. Since our first magazine in 2009, Leawood Lifestyle, we’ve grown to over 200+ hyper-local publications nationwide, each dedicated to showcasing the best of local life—homes, restaurants, events, and places of interest. Join us in supporting local businesses and building community connections through meaningful content.

Position Overview

The Publication Director (PD) is essential to our mission by supporting operational efficiency, fostering strong client relationships, and driving business growth. This position is ideal for someone with excellent organization, proactive problem-solving skills, and a genuine interest in connecting with the community. While a local presence is preferred to enhance community engagement, remote candidates will also be considered. This role starts part-time, with the potential for growth based on performance and company needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Prospecting & Appointment Setting
  • Build and maintain a network of potential clients by identifying and reaching out to prospects via phone, email, and social media.
  • Engage with local businesses and community members to introduce our publication’s benefits, arranging and setting up meetings that foster strong partnerships.
  • Maintain organized records of outreach efforts and leads to support ongoing relationship-building.
• Client Onboarding & Relationship Management
  • Guide new clients through onboarding, utilizing a detailed checklist to cover ad requirements, deadlines, and digital listing setup.
  • Help clients set up and optimize their digital profiles, ensuring they understand the tools available for maximum exposure.
  • Educate clients on the ad process, review their progress, and provide ongoing support for a smooth onboarding experience.
• Ad List Management & Issue Coordination
  • Oversee and manage the ad list to ensure timely, high-quality submissions that meet publication standards, ad specifications, and content policies.
  • Review submissions for any issues in the production of print-ready and creative ads, addressing and resolving concerns to meet deadlines.
  • Keep the Publisher updated and proactively address obstacles in the ad production cycle to ensure seamless operations.
• Financial Operations
  • Support financial management by reviewing AR (Accounts Receivable) reports, addressing missed payments, and assisting clients in setting up or updating auto-pay information.
  • Guide clients on using the customer portal for payment management, send payment reminders and collect any outstanding payments as needed.
  • Support clients in understanding their financial responsibilities, ensuring a seamless payment process, and fostering positive client relationships.
• Customer Service & Support
  • Act as the primary point of contact for client inquiries, offering timely and thoughtful responses to build and maintain positive relationships.
  • Ensure client satisfaction by addressing concerns and fostering a positive experience with our publication.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Experience: Background in client relations, sales, marketing, or project management is preferred.
• Skills:
  • Highly organized with excellent time management skills.
  • Strong communicator with great interpersonal abilities.
  • Detail-oriented with a proactive approach to identifying and resolving challenges.
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Tech Proficiency: Familiarity with CRM systems, basic financial tracking, and digital communication tools.

Why Join Us?

• Growth Opportunity: Be part of a respected local publication and contribute to its growth and success.
• Flexible Work Environment: Local or remote work options, with flexible hours that adapt to part-time or full-time needs.
• Training & Development: We provide comprehensive training on all essential PD tasks, including client onboarding, ad management, financial operations, and growth strategies.

How to Apply

If you’re excited to support local businesses, foster community connections, and bring high-quality content to your area, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume, and a brief cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in joining City Lifestyle, and complete our Culture Index Survey.