Steve Stanek was named managing editor of Budget & Tax News in September 2004. Before being named managing editor, Stanek was a contributor to other Heartland publications, including Health Care News and Environment & Climate News.

He has been a freelance writer and editor since 1997, producing marketing materials and business articles for corporate clients, as well as feature articles and news stories for Chicago-area newspapers, magazines, and business publications.

Before becoming a freelance writer, Stanek worked nearly 11 years in corporate communications. He also has worked as a newspaper reporter and editor at weekly and daily newspapers in Illinois.