Stories Researcher

Stories Researcher

Full-Time 28800 - 48000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Comic Relief

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Research and develop authentic stories from diverse communities for impactful storytelling.
  • Company: Join Comic Relief, a leading charity with a mission to create positive change.
  • Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible working, and opportunities for personal growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference by sharing powerful stories that inspire change.
  • Qualifications: Experience in media or charity storytelling, strong writing, and communication skills.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and collaboration across teams.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.

Join to apply for the Stories Researcher role at Comic Relief. We are recruiting 2 roles:

  • 1 Stories Researcher (Permanent)
  • 1 Stories Researcher (6 month fixed term contract)

Purpose of job

The Stories Researcher will be responsible for researching and developing authentic and diverse stories from our funded partners and the people they support, as part of the wider Stories Team. You will work across all aspects of story researching, writing and development with a strong focus on editorial output across all Comic Relief’s channels including regional and national print, radio, broadcast, online and social media, marketing, community fundraising and corporate partners.

Key responsibilities

  • Work on highly sensitive and targeted casting of contributors for stories.
  • Carry out initial conversations with projects and possible contributors to gather stories and subsequently log and transcribe those conversations.
  • Research factual information, alongside colleagues within the organisation.
  • Set up story gathering project visits with Producers and the Production Manager in the UK and internationally, including doing project recces.
  • Act as the storytelling/safeguarding point of contact for our storytellers on shoots where story gathering may not be required but safeguarding and relationship management are key.
  • Conduct background research on talent ahead of project visits.
  • Build relationships with the Funding Team to understand Comic Relief’s impact and find ways to surface the best stories from the work we fund.
  • Work closely with the PR, Corporate and Public Fundraising teams to understand story needs across the organisation and help Producers elevate stories to deliver on those needs.
  • Keep a good record of all conversations with projects and contributors in line with CR’s internal processes.
  • Gather, log and store contributor release forms.
  • Write first drafts of case studies and story synopses including key information for our social team to feed into posts on social channels.
  • Keep a good record of where stories have been placed across CR’s output.
  • Attend shoots and interview contributors for video content.
  • Some domestic travel may be required for this role.

Person Specification

  • Experience working in a charity stories team or media environment.
  • Experience working to tight deadlines and ability to work under pressure and prioritise.
  • Knowledge of compliance and safeguarding, including experience of working with vulnerable people in challenging locations.
  • Highly organised with the ability to multitask and work across more than one project simultaneously, including outside of the UK in high-risk environments.
  • Strong communication and creative skills and ability to judge how to speak and interact with projects and individuals.
  • Experience working with corporate partners to enhance their storytelling offer.
  • Excellent writing skills with a strong attention to detail – to produce work which is accurate and brand relevant.
  • Risk awareness: Be responsible for maintaining a strong work ethic and awareness of the consequences of their work on the team and the wider Comic Relief brand.
  • Experience cross-organisationally.
  • Experience in working with diverse stakeholders and those with lived experience.

Seniority level: Associate

Employment type: Full-time

Job function: Art/Creative

Industries: Fundraising and Philanthropic Fundraising Services

Stories Researcher employer: Comic Relief

Comic Relief is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, dedicated to making a meaningful impact through storytelling. As a Stories Researcher, you will have the opportunity to engage with diverse communities and contribute to vital projects, all while benefiting from professional development opportunities and a supportive team environment. Located in a vibrant setting, Comic Relief offers a unique chance to be part of a mission-driven organisation that values creativity and social change.
Comic Relief

Contact Detail:

Comic Relief Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Stories Researcher

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to Comic Relief. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your storytelling skills! Prepare a portfolio of your best work that highlights your research and writing abilities. Make sure it’s easy to access and share, so potential employers can see what you bring to the table.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice makes perfect! Get ready for interviews by rehearsing common questions and scenarios related to the role. Think about how your experiences align with the responsibilities of a Stories Researcher.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.

We think you need these skills to ace Stories Researcher

Story Researching
Writing Skills
Communication Skills
Relationship Management
Organisational Skills
Multitasking
Compliance Knowledge
Safeguarding Experience
Attention to Detail
Ability to Work Under Pressure
Experience with Vulnerable Populations
Creative Skills
Cross-Organisational Collaboration
Stakeholder Engagement

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion for Storytelling: When you're writing your application, let your love for storytelling shine through! Share examples of how you've engaged with diverse narratives in the past. We want to see your enthusiasm for bringing authentic stories to life.

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for the Stories Researcher role. Highlight relevant experiences that align with the job description, especially your work with vulnerable people and your understanding of safeguarding. This will show us you’re a perfect fit!

Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant, and make sure to proofread for any typos or errors before hitting send!

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at Comic Relief.

How to prepare for a job interview at Comic Relief

✨Know Your Stories

Before the interview, dive deep into Comic Relief's past stories and projects. Familiarise yourself with their impact and the types of narratives they promote. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your skills can contribute to their storytelling efforts.

✨Showcase Your Research Skills

Be prepared to discuss your research process. Bring examples of how you've gathered and developed stories in the past, especially in sensitive environments. Highlight your ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines, as this role demands strong organisational skills.

✨Communicate Clearly

Effective communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to demonstrate how you would approach conversations with contributors and stakeholders, ensuring you convey empathy and understanding, especially when dealing with vulnerable individuals.

✨Understand Safeguarding

Since this role involves working with vulnerable people, brush up on your knowledge of safeguarding practices. Be ready to discuss how you would ensure the safety and well-being of contributors during story gathering, showcasing your awareness of the responsibilities that come with this role.

Stories Researcher
Comic Relief
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