Päätoimittaja

Päätoimittaja is the Finnish term for editor-in-chief, the highest editorial position in a newspaper, magazine, or online publication. The person occupying this role holds overall responsibility for editorial policy, content quality, and the public image of the publication. The position combines leadership of the newsroom with strategic planning and day-to-day decision making regarding what to publish.

Typical responsibilities include setting editorial standards and ethics, approving major stories and headlines, coordinating with editors and correspondents, and representing the publication in public or professional settings. The päätoimittaja often has the final say on content and layout, handles crisis management, and manages relationships with the publisher, advertisers, and other stakeholders. The exact duties vary by organization and may include personnel decisions, budgeting, and long-term editorial direction.

Selection and authority: A päätoimittaja is usually appointed by the publisher or elected by the editorial board, depending on the governance structure of the organization. The role is distinct from other editorial positions such as editors and reporters, though the editor-in-chief supervises the newsroom and coordinates workflows.

Legal context: In Finland, the legal responsibility for published content is typically linked to a designated editor, often referred to as the vastuullinen toimittaja (responsible editor). The päätoimittaja may hold that designation or delegate it, with arrangements differing across media groups and corporate structures.