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- Tasks: Craft impactful political content and engage with key politicians across Greater Manchester.
- Company: Join the Manchester Evening News, a leading regional media organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, bonus schemes, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a difference in Manchester's political landscape while honing your writing skills.
- Qualifications: Experienced journalist with a passion for politics and strong storytelling abilities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diverse backgrounds and offers excellent career progression.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
The Manchester Evening News is the largest regional website in the country and over the years we have learned how to get political coverage read. We now want to grow that audience further. We are looking for a Political Writer who really cares about Manchester and the north and wants to help fight for its future.
About us: Reach is a modern media organisation, with more than 120 trusted brands including the Mirror, Express, Daily Star, Daily Record, Manchester Evening News, MyLondon, BelfastLive and the Irish Star. We reach 70% of the UK's online population and speak to over 100 million social followers worldwide. We value diverse backgrounds and provide an inclusive environment where every voice is respected.
What will the role involve?
- As the key contact for politicians across Greater Manchester and beyond, you will serve as the definitive political voice of the Manchester Evening News.
- You will lead on crafting brand content, including high-impact opinion pieces, and represent the title's interests at the highest levels of regional government.
- You will build and maintain a sophisticated network of contacts across the city and the wider North, generating exclusive political content and sharp analysis that sets the regional agenda.
- You will tell the stories of how politics and policy impact people's lives and pick subjects for wider development and analysis.
- You will maintain a commanding and authoritative voice on social media, demonstrating a deep understanding of the brand and its unique place in the community.
This hybrid role requires working some evenings and weekend shifts on a rota basis, so a flexible approach is required.
Who are we looking for?
- You are a senior qualified (NQJ or time served) journalist with up-to-date UK media law knowledge.
- You have a proven wealth of experience reporting on news in a fast-paced regional or national newsroom environment and a deep understanding of how the public sector works.
- You possess a passion for news and politics, excellent storytelling skills, and the ability to translate complex ideas into understandable copy.
- You are well organised, adaptable, creative with good judgement, a good communicator, and have a can-do attitude.
- You also have general and political reporting experience and will participate in the news rota.
How we’ll look after you:
- 25 days' holiday (plus bank holidays), plus an extra day after 3, 5 and 10 years; scheme to buy extra holiday if desired.
- One additional day's paid leave each year to volunteer for a cause close to your community or heart.
- One extra day's paid leave for a moment that matters – wedding, moving house or welcoming a new addition to the family (human or furry!).
- Bonus scheme – stake in our success and potential to add to annual earnings.
- Help saving for retirement – company pension contributions matched up to 6% and salary sacrifice option.
- Supportive and progressive people policies – enhanced family leave and policies to promote flexibility, inclusion and progression.
- Healthcare cash plan – money back for medical expenses and fast access to doctor's appointments.
- Car lease scheme – buy a brand new electric or hybrid car through our leasing partner via salary sacrifice.
- Wellbeing support – 24/7 assistance programme for you and your family.
- Access to discounts – 15% off via Reach's online marketplace, Yimbly.
- Interest-free loans – including for season tickets and technology.
Additional Information: Reach plc believes diversity brings benefits for our customers, our business and our people. It is committed to being an inclusive employer and encourages applications from all suitable candidates irrespective of background, circumstances, age, disability, gender identity, ethnicity, religion or belief and sexual orientation.
Seniority level: Associate
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Writing/Editing
Industries: Book and Periodical Publishing
Political Writer - Manchester Evening News employer: Manchester Evening News
Contact Detail:
Manchester Evening News Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Political Writer - Manchester Evening News
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the political scene. Attend local events, engage on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to politicians and their teams. Building those relationships can open doors for exclusive stories and insights.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for Manchester! When you’re chatting with potential employers or contacts, make sure to highlight your love for the city and its politics. Share your thoughts on current issues and how they affect the community – it’ll show you’re not just another writer, but someone who genuinely cares.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay sharp on social media! As a Political Writer, your online presence is crucial. Share your articles, engage with followers, and comment on political happenings. This will not only showcase your expertise but also help you build a following that can amplify your voice.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through directly. It shows you’re serious about joining our team at the Manchester Evening News. Plus, it’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
We think you need these skills to ace Political Writer - Manchester Evening News
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Politics: When writing your application, let your passion for Manchester and its political landscape shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about the issues affecting the community and have a strong desire to make a difference.
Tailor Your Writing Samples: Make sure to include writing samples that reflect your understanding of regional politics and your ability to engage readers. We’re looking for pieces that not only inform but also provoke thought and discussion, so choose wisely!
Highlight Your Network: In your application, mention any connections you have within the political sphere in Greater Manchester. We value candidates who can leverage their contacts to generate exclusive content and insights, so don’t be shy about showcasing your network.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Evening News
✨Know Your Manchester Politics
Before the interview, brush up on the latest political developments in Manchester and the North. Familiarise yourself with key politicians, local issues, and recent news stories that have made headlines. This will not only show your passion for the role but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the community you’ll be writing about.
✨Craft Your Storytelling Skills
As a Political Writer, storytelling is crucial. Prepare examples of your previous work that highlight your ability to translate complex political issues into engaging narratives. Think about how you can showcase your unique voice and perspective, especially in opinion pieces, as this is what will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Network Like a Pro
Since the role involves building a network of contacts, come prepared with ideas on how you would approach this. Think about potential sources, community leaders, and organisations you could engage with. Showing that you have a proactive plan for networking will impress the interviewers and highlight your initiative.
✨Demonstrate Your Social Media Savvy
In today’s media landscape, a strong social media presence is essential. Be ready to discuss how you would use platforms to amplify your stories and engage with the audience. Share examples of your past successes in using social media for journalism, and how you can maintain an authoritative voice online that aligns with the Manchester Evening News brand.
