At a Glance
- Tasks: Write insightful financial analysis for the FT's Lex opinion column during a parental leave.
- Company: Join the Financial Times, a leading global news organisation committed to quality journalism.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, medical cover, gym memberships, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; we value inclusion and fairness in our hiring process.
- Why this job: Make an impact with your writing while connecting with a diverse community of experts.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and a passion for financial journalism are essential.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
This job is with Financial Times, an inclusive employer and a member of myGwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community.
About us
The Financial Times is one of the world’s leading news organisations, globally recognised for its authority, integrity and accuracy, with a mission to deliver quality information and services worldwide. At the FT, curiosity thrives and ambitious thinking is rewarded. Here, you’re given the chance to reach millions, create work that matters and deliver impartial journalism in a polarised world. In our warm, collaborative culture, you’ll connect with a diverse community of experts who support your growth, career aspirations and wellbeing. Your future at the FT will be filled with opportunities that challenge and inspire you. With no fixed path, you’ll discover new skills and forge a career that can take you anywhere. Build a newsworthy career at the FT.
Our commitment to inclusion and fairness
We believe everyone should have a fair opportunity to contribute, succeed, and reach their full potential. That means ensuring everyone is heard, respected, and valued, while identifying and removing barriers that may get in the way. Our commitment is to be an employer role model, grounded in inclusion and fairness for all. We want every application to receive fair and thoughtful consideration; therefore, all applications are reviewed by a member of our recruitment team, not by AI.
The role
This is an opportunity for a UK-based financial journalist to cover a period of parental leave at the FT’s award-winning Lex opinion column. At Lex we write views on companies and markets. No hot takes — only concise, deeply informed, analytical notes on big business, public and private markets and what makes finance tick. We are looking for a numerate, naturally curious writer who wants to provoke debate with well-reported insights. The Lex column is central to the FT’s premium subscription strategy, and reaches an influential, engaged global audience. Sector expertise is welcome, but we'll also want to see that you are an all-rounder. We’ll help you hone your ability to write punchy, directional and entertaining opinion.
What you will bring to the role
- Analytical rigor: A strong grasp of corporate reporting, accounting, and the mechanics of M&A and earnings.
- Conviction: The ability to generate clear, directional, and deeply reported views, backed up with numbers.
- Intellectual agility: A fearless approach to untangling complex, unfamiliar topics.
- Source management: A knack for conducting difficult, probing and diplomatic conversations with high-level sources.
- Ambition: A drive to make a tangible impact, both in the market and within the FT newsroom.
Please submit your application by the end of the day, Thursday 19th November 2026.
The use of AI
Original reporting, great writing and intelligent commentary lie at the heart of FT journalism. Our readers trust us to produce quality journalism that is accurate, fair and insightful. This is why FT editorial staff do not by default use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to write articles or create other reader-facing content. For specific and pre-approved cases, AI can be harnessed for certain tasks, such as assisting data research for investigations. We expect applicants to the FT newsroom to refrain from using AI in their test submissions, and any written materials should be a genuine reflection of their own knowledge, skills and experiences. We encourage candidates only to employ AI as a tool to help with research and interview readiness for a role. Candidates should be aware that the use of AI throughout the application process is monitored to ensure a fair and transparent hiring process for all.
What’s in it for you? Our benefits
Our benefits vary by location but we are committed to providing best-in-class perks across all our offices. These include generous annual leave, medical cover, inclusive parental leave packages, subsidised gym memberships and opportunities to give back to the community. Full details of our benefits are available here. FT Newsroom staff are expected to work onsite a minimum of three days per week, subject to role requirements and regular review. While flexible working requests will be considered, not all patterns are suitable for Editorial roles.
Accessibility
We are a disability confident employer and Valuable 500 signatory. Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments/personalisation as part of the application process or to enable you to attend an interview. If you would like to discuss your requirements or have any questions, email talent@ft.com and a member of our team will be happy to help.
Acting Lex Columnist employer: Financial Times
The Financial Times is an exceptional employer that champions diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a warm and collaborative culture where employees can thrive. With a commitment to employee growth, the FT offers a range of benefits including generous annual leave, medical cover, and a flexible hybrid working model, ensuring that you can balance your professional and personal life while contributing to impactful journalism. Join a diverse community of experts and enjoy opportunities that challenge and inspire you in a role that connects influential decision-makers across the globe.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Acting Lex Columnist
✨Get Your Foot in the Door
Temporary roles often pop up when companies need extra hands for specific projects, so keep an eye on local job boards and news websites. Don’t hesitate to check out industry-specific platforms like Journalism.co.uk or local community groups for short-term gigs.
✨Network Like a Pro
Attend journalism and media events in your area, such as press launches or panel discussions. These are golden opportunities to meet industry insiders who might have the scoop on temporary openings. Plus, connecting with your peers can lead to unexpected recommendations.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a portfolio that showcases your best work, even if it’s just student projects or freelance articles. For journalism, a strong online presence is key, so make sure to share your pieces on platforms like Medium or your own blog to attract potential employers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Site
We often have temporary positions available at Financial Times. Keep an eye on our careers page and apply directly – you're one step closer to landing that opportunity. Tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences that make you a standout candidate!
We think you need these skills to ace Acting Lex Columnist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Writing Style:When applying for a temporary role in journalism-media, it's crucial to exhibit your unique writing voice. Attach samples of your work that showcase not just your ability to report, but also to engage readers. A link to your online portfolio can really help us see your style and versatility!
Tailor Your CV to Highlight Relevant Experience:In the world of journalism-media, it’s all about storytelling and your CV should reflect that! Focus on any journalism-related internships, freelance articles, or relevant coursework. Make sure to include specific achievements, like publications or recognitions, that make you stand out.
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:For a temporary position, we want to know what excites you about journalism and why this role at Financial Times matters to you. Share your motivation for applying and what you hope to learn during your time with us. Let your passion for the media shine through!
Stay Current with Industry Trends:Show us that you’ve got your finger on the pulse of journalism-media trends. Reference recent developments or challenges in the industry in your application to demonstrate your enthusiasm and awareness. This can set you apart from other candidates who may not be as in-the-know!
How to prepare for a job interview at Financial Times
✨Showcase Your Versatility
In the world of journalism, adaptability is key. Be prepared to discuss various topics you've covered, whether it's breaking news, features, or investigative pieces. Bring along a portfolio that shows your range—think articles, videos, or even social media content you've created. This will demonstrate your ability to tackle different formats and subjects under pressure!
✨Nail That Story Pitch
As a temporary journalist, you'll need to hit the ground running. Before your interview with Financial Times, think about a compelling story idea you could pitch them. Tailor it to their audience and showcase your unique angle—this will show you're proactive and understand their publication's style, which is gold in fast-paced media environments.
✨Know Your Tools
Familiarise yourself with the tools journalists use—whether that’s content management systems, Adobe Suite, or video editing software. During the interview, highlight your proficiency with these tools. A temporary role at Financial Times might require you to jump into production quickly, and showing you're tech-savvy can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Quick Adaptation
In temporary roles, your ability to adapt and learn quickly is crucial. Be ready to discuss a time when you had to adjust your writing or reporting style to fit a new audience or medium. This will show Financial Times that you can thrive in dynamic situations and won't just be another warm body—but a valuable team member right from day one.
