On-Screen Journalists

We have a fantastic opportunity for an On‑Screen Journalist to join our ITV Meridian news team based in the Thames Valley. This is a high profile, on‑screen role for someone with a proven track record of delivering striking, high‑quality, distinctive journalism on television, for digital platforms. ITV Meridian is a richly diverse region and we’re looking for a person who will help ensure our coverage is as representative of the people and backgrounds of all those who live here as possible.

Key Responsibilities

• Consistently generate original and creative ideas, contributing to the news agenda of the day, on‑screen and online.
• Research and develop story ideas thoroughly and creatively for on‑air and online output.
• Create and nurture a wide range of relevant contacts.
• Proactively promote diversity, equity and inclusion, ensuring the output reflects news stories and issues across the audience spectrum.
• Source interesting contributors from all parts of the community who will bring the story to life.
• Tell the story through engaging and authoritative presentation, either through a live broadcast, as part of a news package, or through a range of digital platforms.
• Self‑shoot items (where appropriate) to a high standard.
• Edit packages confidently, creatively and efficiently, making full use of all production tools to make the most interesting item possible.
• Cure ITV's digital offering on the website or ITVX as required.
• Create accurate graphics for bulletins, programmes and packages which clearly illustrate stories and communicate ideas using the template‑based graphic system.
• Write scripts that are accurate, concise and engaging.
• Meet all online and on‑air deadlines throughout the day, reacting quickly to breaking stories, and regularly liaising with the news desk.
• Provide copyright clearance details and basic media management (sourcing, booking and returning tapes to the library).
• Exercise excellent editorial judgement, maintaining professional journalistic standards and adhering to ITV's Legal & Compliance, ITV Trust and OFCOM guidelines.
• Work long and unsociable hours at short notice, and the role may involve physically demanding tasks such as transporting, carrying and operating a camera on a regular basis.
• Some members of the Production Team may be required to travel to district offices or to work in other news operations, as well as attending relevant forums, development sessions and meetings off‑site as part of their role.
• Develop an online presence and extend the reach of your journalism using digital media.

Qualifications and Skills

• The ability to dress professionally, speak clearly and deliver the script or interview with a style and tone that is both authoritative and relaxed.
• Proven technical ability (self‑shooting, editing, live reporting & digital) to give the story maximum impact as part of a package, live report, online article, and social media post.
• Confident and clear communication skills, with the ability to source contributors and put them at their ease to get the best story possible.
• Fully qualified NCTJ, BJTC or equivalent experience.
• A strong knowledge of media law & compliance, the Ofcom Code and the ability to exercise excellent editorial judgement.
• The ability to generate, research and develop original, impactful and distinctive ideas, taking a creative approach to story‑telling, treatments and production to deliver high‑quality reports for both on‑air and online.
• Strong and creative writing skills (accurate spelling and grammar essential).
• A strong knowledge of the patch, its cultural heritage and an awareness of the types of stories that engage our audiences, and an understanding of the importance of Diversity and Inclusion in determining output.
• The ability to work to deadlines is crucial, with organisational, logistical and efficient work habits.
• Proven ability to build a strong network of contacts and think laterally where stories are developing.
• The ability to use initiative, be self‑motivated and quick‑thinking, with strong and decisive decision‑making skills.
• Excellent news judgement in line with ITV News aspirations, comprehensive knowledge of and interest in national and regional news (both newspapers, online and other broadcast media).
• The ability/willingness to edit and to use a camera to self‑shoot items or provide additional material as required, embracing further changes in technology and workflow.
• The ability to bring in stories from under‑represented people across the region.
• Knowledge and understanding of digital platforms and how to tap into new audiences online, and experience of using social media as a promotional tool.
• The ability to remain calm and resilient in a busy work environment.
• Experience of working effectively as part of a team, ensuring that the whole team (editorial and production) feel included and valued in newsgathering and production.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Clear understanding of and commitment to DEI and Health & Safety policies.

Benefits

• Flexible working with a range of options.
• Generous holiday allowance, plus you can buy more.
• Annual bonus opportunity.
• Competitive pension contribution.
• Save as you earn – with an opportunity to buy ITV shares.
• Well‑being and volunteering days plus a wide range of opportunities to help you live a balanced and healthy life.