Over the past two years, we’ve been rebuilding The Beacon from the inside out.

We clarified our mission. We let go of what wasn’t working. We doubled down on journalism that reflects civic life: health, education, workforce, economic mobility and government. We launched rural and statewide coverage. We built a new website. We retooled our operations.

And most importantly, we rebuilt trust with our readers, our funders and with each other.

That work is starting to pay off. We’re growing again!

Not just in size, but in clarity, stability and possibility. In the coming days, we’ll be announcing two incredible new hires on our editorial and engagement teams. And now we’re turning our attention to another part of the equation: sustainability.

This is the part that excites me most!

Before I stepped into journalism, I spent years in the startup world helping early stage entrepreneurs start and scale. I led strategy at an education-industry accelerator and worked with founders through the Henry W. Bloch School of Management at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. That experience shaped how I think about this work. I believe journalism needs builders like me, too.

At The Beacon, we’re reviving the people’s press and building a newsroom that provides civic infrastructure designed to serve the community. And that requires more than great reporting. It requires smart systems, clear strategy and a business foundation strong enough to carry it forward.

That’s why we’re hiring for a few key roles that will work closely with me and our leadership team to carry that vision forward:

Grants and Operations Manager (full-time)
This person will help keep the engine running. From managing our grants calendar to coordinating across teams, this role supports our CEO (hi, that’s me) and ensures our funding, compliance and operations stay aligned and on track.

CRM and Development Coordinator (part-time)
We’re looking for someone who loves systems and data. This role manages our CRM, helps us send targeted fundraising campaigns, tracks performance and supports membership growth. You don’t have to be a fundraiser, but you do need to love making things work behind the scenes.

Product and Audience Engagement Coordinator (part-time)
This role helps make sure our stories reach the right people at the right time. You’ll support social media scheduling, newsletters, homepage updates and performance tracking. You’ll work closely with our Director of Product to bring clarity and consistency to how our journalism shows up in the world.

We’re also continuing to hire part-time Community Representatives through our Community Journalism Lab, and we always welcome thoughtful freelance contributors across Kansas and Missouri.

And for those who want to engage more directly with civic life, there will be an opportunity to become a Documenter in the near future.

Stay tuned. We’re just getting started. If you know someone who might be a great fit, send them our way.