Codell Rodriguez

About

With more than 12 years of writing and editing experience, I have a broad background leading newsroom operations and developing reader-focused content. I specialize in coaching reporters and pushing them to reach their full potential through honest feedback and positive reinforcement.As the Planning Editor of Quad-City Times, I lead a team of talented reporters and guide them in developing and executing exciting journalism geared at reaching wide audiences. In addition to overseeing the Food, Weekend, Outdoors and Business sections, I also manage the Muscatine Journal, a small daily just south of the the Quad-Cities. My progressive career with The Southern Illinoisan in Carbondale, Ill., has featured numerous awards for writing and headline development. In my former role as Night Editor, I oversaw a staff of writers and editors in executing daily newsroom objectives. This includes the assignment and editing of copy, collaboration with senior organizational leadership and ensuring accountability for deadlines and accuracy. Among my most recent career achievements: * Co-led page design transition to external source, requiring travel to out-of-state design center and training of staff on new processes. * Earned Third Place for Headlines from the Illinois Associated Press Media Editors. Peers and management describe my leadership style as collaborative and engaging, as I am focused on positioning writers and editors for success. I am well-versed in social media engagement, as well as in both traditional and digital content platforms. Specialties: Feature Writing, Breaking News Writing, Copyediting, Newsroom Management, Writer Development, Process Improvements, Communications, Journalism, Social Media, Story Ideation, Fact-Checking.