Editor (Contract)

The Sentry is seeking an experienced editor to undertake developmental and line edits of investigative reports, policy briefings, and other written materials. The ideal candidate will have experience editing long-form journalism or academic work on economic affairs, crime and corruption, illicit finance, international relations, and/or human rights matters, particularly related to French-speaking Africa. They will also have experience editing with legal risk in mind.

Responsibilities
The editor will work with the Editorial Manager, investigators, and report authors, in collaboration with other relevant staff, to help produce high-quality and high-impact reports and written materials to engage a range of audiences, from experts and policymakers to journalists, influencers, and the general public.

Duties will include:
Provide developmental and line edits on investigative reports, policy papers, development proposals, and other written materials.
Ensure that all content meets The Sentry’s editorial and style standards (AP Stylebook).
Strengthen structure, sequencing, coherence, and clarity of content, ensuring that main ideas and policy points are presented powerfully and concisely.
Implement and maintain The Sentry’s voice across products written by diverse authors.
Check facts and quotes cited in public sources, flag assertions needing citation, and provide research support when possible.
Evaluate, challenge, and bolster, as appropriate, the logic, coherence, and consistency of facts and arguments presented.
Ensure the alignment of written products with agreed upon policy frameworks and language, strategic objectives, and The Sentry’s core mission.
Implement and maintain risk-mitigating legal phrasing.
Work with writers of varying skill and experience, providing constructive feedback and one-on-one coaching to improve key writing skills including storytelling, structure, readability, and persuasiveness.
Maintain strict version control on reports and other written products.
Maintain strict confidentiality when working on unpublished investigative materials.
Regularly engage with Editorial Manager to receive direction and guidance on editorial projects.
Retain feedback and develop specialist knowledge.
Communicate clearly and regularly regarding projects and availability.
Invoice for projects regularly.
Adhere to industry quality standards.