Senior Director of Thought Leadership

Senior Director of Thought Leadership

Overview (Why This Role?)
Are you passionate about crafting compelling narratives that shape industry conversations? As Senior Director of Thought Leadership at Hearst Magazines, you’ll drive the company’s position as an innovative voice in media by creating high-impact content, uncovering powerful insights, and leading cross-functional initiatives that influence both consumer and B2B audiences.

About Hearst Magazines (Why Us?)
Hearst Magazines’ portfolio of more than 30 iconic brands in the U.S.—including Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Esquire, Good Housekeeping, Harper’s BAZAAR, and Popular Mechanics — inspires, entertains, and builds new and bold experiences for an engaged and growing audience across digital, video, social and print, reaching nearly 130 million readers and site visitors each month. With sophisticated content creation, cutting-edge technology, and industry-leading data capabilities, we make media and products that move people across all platforms. We are a global media company that publishes nearly 200 magazine editions and 175 websites around the world—and together, we are shaping what’s next.

Key Responsibilities (What You Are Doing)

• Develop and execute a comprehensive thought leadership strategy aligned with business objectives and brand positioning.
• Create content across formats—newsletters, business presentations, executive communications, social media posts, and more—tailored for both consumer and B2B audiences.
• Identify emerging trends and industry shifts to keep Hearst’s voice relevant and forward-thinking.
• Collaborate with senior leadership, subject matter experts, and cross-functional teams to uncover and amplify impactful narratives.
• Commission and interpret research in partnership with the data team to inform content and derive meaningful insights.
• Manage performance metrics and KPIs to evaluate effectiveness and refine strategy over time.
• Oversee the full lifecycle of content programs—from concept through distribution—ensuring strategic alignment and quality.
• Operate in a hybrid work environment, with at least three days per week in our New York City office.

Qualifications (What We’re Looking For)

• Proven experience developing and leading thought leadership or strategic content marketing initiatives.
• Outstanding storytelling and writing skills with a strategic mindset.
• Strong research and analytical skills to extract insights from complex data.
• A deep understanding of the media landscape, communications trends, and audience engagement strategies.
• Excellent project management abilities, capable of leading multiple content streams concurrently.
• Adept at fostering collaboration across departments and working with senior-level stakeholders.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Benefits (What We Offer)

• Work with the Best: Collaborate with top-tier professionals across media, advertising, tech, fashion, lifestyle, and publishing, shaping the future of these dynamic industries.
• Grow Your Skills: Unlock your potential with access to innovative training programs, immersive workshops, and exclusive industry events.
• Work-Life Harmony: Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid work, empowering you to balance professional success with personal priorities.
• Foster Connection & Belonging: Join our Employee Resource Groups and help create a welcoming workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered.
• Wellness First: Prioritize your well-being with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance from Day 1.
• Plan for Your Financial Future: Enjoy competitive financial perks, including a 401(k) plan with a generous company match.

The base salary for this role is between $133,000 - $161,000. The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Hearst is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.