Alabama beat writer — Montgomery Advertiser

I guess, but every company has various workflows and initiatives and there's certainly training involved. Then there's time editor's spend finding the right candidate and HR checking their background, etc. I suppose that time could be reduced by hiring someone already working for the company elsewhere.

If you're merely pointing out Gannett's point of view, then I completely agree. Unlike the Athletic, where name recognition and a reputation on a particular beat is the approach to selling subscriptions and building an audience, Gannett indeed believes that the audience will still be there even if the individual covering the beat changes every year.

 

This joint *had* an Alabama beat writer for years. Then, through layoffs and whatnot, eliminated the position. Interesting that they are bringing it back.

rb