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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the newsroom, manage news coverage, and ensure compelling digital-first content.
- Company: Join the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life, a dynamic media organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days annual leave, health initiatives, and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Make an impact in journalism while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 3 years of journalistic experience and strong digital media skills required.
- Other info: Great opportunities for career growth and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Assistant News Editor reports to the News Editor and Deputy News Editor under the overall direction of the Head of Content. Working to a seven-day roster to serve the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life as necessary, the role holder is responsible for assisting the News Editor in directing the newsroom resources towards the news of the day, ensuring our titles have the most competitive and compelling coverage.
The Assistant News Editor takes a lead role in the management of news (premium and fast) with a focus on digital-first publication. They will ensure verification, legal checking and editing of breaking news articles and video for our digital platforms. They will also be responsible for publishing stories online and overseeing video content as required in collaboration with the Lead Journalist Creator and Visuals department. The Assistant News Editor is also responsible for careful forward planning to prepare for known upcoming events, and the development of unique, exclusive news and news packages.
Role Responsibilities (Overview)
- Guiding and briefing general news and specialist reporters, photographers and video journalists in the newsroom towards required work.
- Commissioning external freelance writers, photographers and videographers where necessary.
- Attending and/or running news conferences to develop ideas and news coverage.
- Creating and updating news lists for respective titles, as allocated by the News Editor or other senior personnel.
- Working to ensure all major news is broken on our digital platforms.
- Working collaboratively on the News Desk and with other senior members of the newsroom in digital and in print.
- Deputise for the Sunday Life news manager when they are on leave for digital and print.
- Copy and video editing where necessary.
- Drawing up rosters where necessary.
- Assisting the News Editors as required across all aspects of their job – including taking the lead on the newsdesk if required.
- Reporting on events/breaking news if required.
- Carry out your duties at all times in accordance with relevant professional and legal code.
Experience & Qualifications
- At least 3 years’ journalistic experience.
- News reporting and editing experience is essential.
- Experience working on a news desk would be beneficial.
- Good understanding of digital media.
- Team leadership experience would be an advantage.
Skills
- Journalism & digital skills: Experienced in written and digital journalism, copy editing and CMS platforms, with strong use of social media and digital tools to source and promote stories.
- Leadership & collaboration: Skilled at leading teams, working with writers to develop strong stories and supporting collaboration and people development.
- Organisation & editorial judgement: Highly organised with strong news judgement, able to manage a wide mix of stories, generate original ideas and meet tight deadlines.
- Professional strengths: Detail-oriented, adaptable and self-motivated, with strong ethical standards, knowledge of libel law and a passion for high-quality journalism.
Benefits
- 35 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
- Company Pension Contribution
- Bike to Work Scheme
- Free Parking
- Income Protection
- Health & Wellness events
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Enhanced Maternity & Paternity Leave
- Hybrid working schedule
- Life Assurance
- Educational Assistance
Assistant News Editor, Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life employer: Mediahuis IRL
Contact Detail:
Mediahuis IRL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant News Editor, Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the journalism world, especially those who work at the Belfast Telegraph or similar outlets. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your digital skills! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, be ready to discuss your experience with digital journalism and social media. Bring examples of your work that highlight your ability to create compelling online content.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by staying updated on current events. As an Assistant News Editor, you'll need to demonstrate your news judgement and editorial skills. Be ready to discuss recent stories and how you would approach them differently.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application directly, ensuring it gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team at the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant News Editor, Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant News Editor role. Highlight your journalistic experience, especially any work on news desks or digital platforms. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your passion for journalism and your understanding of digital media. Let us know why you’re the perfect fit for the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life.
Showcase Your Digital Skills: Since this role focuses on digital-first publication, make sure to highlight your experience with CMS platforms and social media. We love seeing candidates who are savvy with digital tools and can bring fresh ideas to our newsroom.
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. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mediahuis IRL
✨Know Your News
Before the interview, make sure you’re up to speed with the latest news stories, especially those relevant to the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life. Familiarise yourself with their style and recent coverage to show that you’re not just a passive consumer of news but an active participant in the industry.
✨Showcase Your Digital Skills
Since the role focuses on digital-first publication, be prepared to discuss your experience with CMS platforms and social media. Bring examples of how you've used digital tools to source or promote stories, and be ready to explain how you would apply these skills in the role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
As an Assistant News Editor, you’ll need to guide and support a team. Think of specific instances where you’ve led a project or collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Highlight your ability to manage diverse stories and meet tight deadlines while keeping the team motivated.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with thoughtful questions about the newsroom's direction, upcoming projects, or how they measure success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.