At a Glance
- Tasks: Commission and edit engaging articles, develop product testing methodologies, and collaborate with creative teams.
- Company: Join the Guardian, a diverse and inclusive global organisation committed to fearless journalism.
- Benefits: Enjoy six weeks annual leave, generous pension contributions, and support for personal well-being.
- Other info: Embrace a dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in media by shaping trustworthy product reviews and recommendations.
- Qualifications: Experience in editing at a national brand and a passion for consumer journalism.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Join our team at the Guardian and be a part of a diverse and inclusive global organisation that delivers fearless, investigative journalism, and holds power to account. Our team of award-winning journalists, cutting‑edge commercial professionals, and industry‑leading digital experts are committed to making a difference and represent a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. We offer a challenging and exciting environment for career development, with a focus on training, growth and fostering an inclusive culture.
The Filter is the Guardian's independent product reviews and recommendations section which offers our readers trustworthy buying advice and sustainable shopping ideas. We are now looking for a commissioning editor, the Filter, to play a central role in helping to grow this thriving section and find new audiences. The role involves commissioning and editing new articles and updates to evergreen articles; generating ideas; contributing to articles and newsletters. This is a 12-month fixed-term contract or staff secondment. We actively encourage applications from groups traditionally underrepresented in the UK media.
About the role- Originate ambitious, engaging editorial ideas and support team members to develop their own ideas to high standards.
- Commission different article and content types – features, product reviews, group tests, gift guides, sustainability‑focused articles and newsletters – from both freelance and in‑house writers.
- Edit articles to a high standard; support the editor and deputy editor in managing deadlines and process.
- Help the editor and deputy editor commission and edit updates to our growing bank of evergreen articles.
- Work closely with the editor, deputy editor and picture editors to coordinate photography and video plans.
- Develop product testing methodologies for new group tests.
- Work closely with design colleagues, video and social media teams to ensure our journalism is showcased at its best; originate ambitious ideas for showcasing it in new, exciting ways.
- Use audience data to support potential ideas and track performance and engagement, working closely with the audience editor.
- Demonstrable experience of working in an editing role at a national news or publishing brand.
- Proven track record of commissioning freelancers and staff writers, and experience of consumer reviews and recommendations.
- Experience collaborating with a production team (sub‑editors, photo‑editors) in making sure journalism is engaging and published at a high standard.
- Experience with social media platforms, SEO and a sense of how and where reviews journalism performs best on each platform.
- Understanding and knowledge of analytics, search and other measurements of audience.
- Proven ability to produce high‑quality product reviews and shopping journalism that maintain high standards of editorial independence.
- Understanding of the Guardian's role in the media landscape and how the Filter's readers' needs differ to other consumers.
- Ideally, you'll have a demonstrable ability to bring a diverse perspective to this role.
You'll have six weeks of annual leave per year (plus bank holidays) with the option to purchase an additional 5 days. Our pension scheme is generous; if you contribute 5% then we will contribute 8-12% (depending on your age). We believe in giving back, which is why employees are given 2 volunteering days annually and the option of payroll giving. Season ticket loans are also available. You are entitled to life cover, income protection, and eye tests. You can also opt in to dental insurance. We have enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave policies in place. We also support our employees by offering an IVF, menopause, baby loss and trans equality policy.
Commissioning Editor, the Filter employer: Guardian-News-
At the Guardian, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that champions diversity and fosters professional growth. As a Commissioning Editor for The Filter, you'll enjoy generous benefits such as six weeks of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and unique support policies, all while contributing to impactful journalism that resonates with a global audience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commissioning Editor, the Filter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those at the Guardian or similar organisations. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your personality! When you get an interview, let your passion for journalism shine through. Share your ideas on how to engage audiences and make your mark in the Filter section.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared with examples! Think of specific projects where you've commissioned or edited content successfully. This will help us see how you can contribute to our team right from the start.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Commissioning Editor, the Filter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Journalism:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for journalism shine through! We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about delivering high-quality content and making a difference in the media landscape.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in editing and commissioning. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role of Commissioning Editor at The Filter, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements and how they relate to our mission.
Be Creative with Ideas:We’re looking for someone who can originate ambitious editorial ideas. In your application, feel free to share a few concepts or angles you think would resonate with our audience. This will show us that you’re proactive and ready to contribute from day one!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Guardian-News-
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to understand the Guardian's audience and how The Filter caters to their needs. Familiarise yourself with recent articles and trends in product reviews and recommendations. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Editing Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous editing experiences in detail. Bring examples of your work that highlight your ability to commission and edit high-quality content. Think about how you've collaborated with writers and production teams to create engaging journalism, as this will be key in your role.
✨Bring Ideas to the Table
Think creatively about potential article ideas or improvements for The Filter. During the interview, share your thoughts on how to engage new audiences or enhance existing content. This shows initiative and a proactive approach, which is exactly what they’re looking for.
✨Understand the Metrics
Familiarise yourself with audience analytics and performance metrics relevant to product reviews. Be ready to discuss how you’ve used data to inform your editorial decisions in the past. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and understanding of how to optimise content for different platforms.