USA Today developing new 'vertical' platform

A reader has just pointed me to a job posting, where USA Today seeks a general manager to develop and lead a new "multi-platform content vertical.'' The posting, apparently recent, does not detail the subject of the venture, likely for competitive reasons. And it doesn't say whether the position reports to Publisher Dave Hunke, or someone lower on the food chain. Have any other Gannett papers created this job?

Job description
USA Today seeks a General Manager to lead all efforts to build and manage a multi-platform content Vertical. The GM position will be accountable for the Vertical’s performance and audience growth; will set direction and strategy to deliver incremental revenue, traffic, and product capabilities. The GM will serve as the product champion and will coordinate communication of product strategy, goals, sales materials, operational strategy, and priorities. The GM will lead efforts to pursue network partners and business partners that can add tools and content for the Vertical.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team that includes design, editorial, business development, sales solutions, and information technology charged with developing a successful Vertical
• Creatively disrupt the status quo: find exciting new ways to innovate and deliver content that brings readers and advertisers to USA Today on any and all platforms.
• Work to develop new products and lines of business in the mobile, digital, e-reader, or print platforms; and, with content teams, to develop new features, programs, and contests that can be linked to advertiser support.
• Develop strategies to increase the footprint of the Vertical. This can include a network strategy and partners for tools, content, and promotion.
• Promote USA Today’s presence in the Vertical through participation in industry events and press interaction.

Requirements

• Minimum five years supervisory/management experience in media or communications, preferably with profit/loss responsibility
• Minimum five years experience in business development or digital products for a media company; or demonstrated business acumen equal to that experience
• Minimum five years experience developing digital, mobile, and print products with demonstrated knowledge of these product offerings
• Bachelor’s degree in business management, marketing, communications, journalism or related field
• Previous experience in content creation and development with in-depth knowledge of editorial processes and standards
• Superior knowledge of internet platforms
• Excellent organizational, strategic and business skills
• Demonstrated analysis, design and planning skills
• Public speaking experience or training preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Office required.

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