At a Glance
- Tasks: Pitch and book compelling guests for CNN's top shows, contributing to breaking news coverage.
- Company: Join the dynamic team at CNN, a leader in global news.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and access to exclusive events.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with a supportive network of over 100 interns.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in journalism and make an impact on international news.
- Qualifications: Passion for news, strong communication skills, and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 29000 £ per year.
The planning internship is right in the heart of the newsroom and central to CNN’s coverage of breaking news stories. The main role of the planning desk is to find and secure the most compelling, interesting, and relevant voices across the world to give insight into the top stories of the day. Guests can vary from eyewitnesses and experts in a specific field to politicians and world leaders.
From the first day in the role, our intern becomes a core member of the team and directly contributes to the fast‑paced guest booking across CNNi shows including Connect the World with Becky Anderson, Isa Soares Tonight, and What We Know with Max Foster. The internship is equal parts editorial research and logistics organization.
Your Role Accountabilities
- Daily pitching of guest names and perspectives to show programming teams
- Editorial input and decision making
- Scheduling and organising technical logistics for both remote and in‑person interviews
- Researching the right voices for CNNi shows
- Contacting and pre‑interviewing guests
- Briefing show teams and contributing to daily editorial meetings
Qualifications & Experience
- An interest in exploring a career in journalism, with some training and/or an ability to illustrate a portfolio of work/content (eg: blogs, podcasts, YouTube Channel, etc.)
- Experience working in fast‑paced, team environments, ideally to strict deadlines
- Ability to work quickly, managing time and multiple priorities effectively
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Have a passion for international news
- Be proactive and ready to throw yourself into any task
The Internship
- Salary: £29,000 p/a (pro rata)
- Contract Length: 6 months
- Start Date: 1st September 2026
You will gain hands‑on experience working on business‑critical projects. You will have access to personal and professional development courses, executive speakers’ series, special screenings and more. You will be part of our Early Talent network of over 100 interns & apprentices, meaning you will have an important support network of other students, graduates and apprentices and plenty of opportunities to socialise!
Hybrid Working
This role is advertised as a hybrid work model, that combines remote and in‑office work, following our current company policy and to be agreed with your Line Manager. Subject to any applicable laws, WBD / your Line Manager reserves the right to change this working agreement where this is essential to business needs and upon reasonable notice to you.
Championing Inclusion at WBD
Warner Bros. Discovery embraces the opportunity to build a workforce that reflects a wide array of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences. Being an equal‑opportunity employer means that we take seriously our responsibility to consider qualified candidates on the basis of merit, regardless of sex, gender identity, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy, parenthood, disability or any other category protected by law.
If you’re a qualified candidate with a disability and you require adjustments or accommodations during the job application and/or recruitment process, please visit our accessibility page for instructions to submit your request.
CNN London Planning (Interviews & Guest Booking) Intern employer: CNN
At CNN London, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work environment. As an intern in the planning team, you will gain invaluable hands-on experience in the fast-paced world of journalism, with access to professional development opportunities and a supportive network of peers. Our hybrid working model allows for flexibility while you contribute to impactful news coverage, making this internship a truly rewarding experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CNN London Planning (Interviews & Guest Booking) Intern
✨Dive into Digital Journalism Communities
Join online platforms like Medium or Substack where aspiring journalists share their work. Engage with posts and connect with writers in your niche; a little visibility can go a long way, especially when hunting for internships like the one at CNN.
✨Leverage University Partnerships
Tap into your university’s career services! Many have connections with media outlets and offer internship fairs. Don’t hesitate to ask about contacts they have – they might know exactly how to get your foot in the door for that coveted CNN London Planning (Interviews & Guest Booking) Intern spot.
✨Create a Compelling Portfolio
Put together an online portfolio showcasing your best articles, blogs, or multimedia work. Having a platform like a personal website or an easy-to-navigate Behance page can leave a lasting impression, especially when applying for internships at places like CNN.
✨Pitch Ideas to Blogs and Local Publications
Want to stand out? Instead of waiting for openings, pitch your ideas to local blogs or smaller publications. It’s a great way to build your portfolio and gain invaluable experience that can help you land that internship at CNN.
We think you need these skills to ace CNN London Planning (Interviews & Guest Booking) Intern
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft Your Story:In journalism and media, your ability to tell a compelling story is key. Use your cover letter to illustrate your passion for storytelling—whether it’s through articles, blogs, or video content. Show us how you engage your audience and present information.
Show Off Your Portfolio:As an intern, you want to highlight your potential—so make sure to include a portfolio that showcases your best work. Whether it’s articles, video clips, or social media campaigns, we want to see your creativity and how you handle different formats.
Demonstrate Your Research Skills:Research skills are essential in journalism. Highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or experiences where you've conducted thorough research. We love seeing candidates who know how to gather information and verify sources—it's a great indicator of your potential in the field!
Tailor Your CV for Journalism:Make sure your CV reflects your experience in journalism specifically. Include any relevant positions, internships, or volunteer roles, listing key responsibilities and achievements. Don't forget to mention any published work and skills like interviewing, editing, or using media tools!
How to prepare for a job interview at CNN
✨Showcase Your Writing Samples
As a journalism intern, it’s crucial to have a few strong writing samples ready to impress. Pick articles or pieces that highlight your style and versatility - whether they're news articles, features, or opinion pieces. Bring them along to your interview at CNN to show you’ve got the chops!
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions, particularly around ethics in journalism or how you'd handle a tight deadline. Think about real-world situations you might encounter in a newsroom and be ready to discuss how you'd tackle them. This will help demonstrate your critical thinking and quick decision-making skills.
✨Know Your Trends
Stay updated on current events and trends within the media landscape. Be prepared to discuss your thoughts on the impact of social media on journalism or recent developments in the industry. This showcases your passion and engagement, which is vital for an intern role at CNN.
✨Express Your Eagerness to Learn
As an intern, your motivation and willingness to learn are key. During the interview, share why you’re excited about the internship at CNN and how you see it helping you grow as a journalist. This enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates who've got the skills but may lack that spark.
