At a Glance
- Tasks: Source and break stories, create engaging digital content, and connect with local communities.
- Company: Join the Belfast Telegraph, part of the Mediahuis group, where great journalism matters.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 35 days annual leave, and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community through innovative storytelling and journalism.
- Qualifications: 2+ years of journalism experience and strong news judgement required.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic digital journalism team in Derry ~ Londonderry.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
The Belfast Telegraph is proud to be part of the Mediahuis group where we believe great journalism matters - now more than ever. Across our iconic news brands, we inform, challenge and connect communities every day, while building sustainable digital businesses for the future.
In this role you will source, break, and explain stories for belfasttelegraph.co.uk. The role combines digital local news reporting with engaging, digital-first storytelling. This includes short-form video, live updates, social posts, explainers, interactive features, and occasional audio or podcast contributions. You’ll work to fast-paced digital deadlines, publish iteratively, and focus on optimising content to meet audience needs.
You will form part of the Belfast Telegraph’s new digital journalism team in Northern Ireland’s second city, covering the greater North West region. We are open to applications on a full-time or part-time basis and are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements. If you’re an experienced journalist looking for flexibility, we’d welcome that conversation.
Key Responsibilities- Newsgathering
- Build and maintain a contact network across Derry ~ Londonderry
- Consistently break exclusive stories; file fast, accurate updates and in-depth analysis as stories evolve
- Proactively plan diary items, flag upcoming events, and pitch distinctive angles that serve local audiences
- Digital storytelling
- Create up-to-date, balanced, engaging multimedia content, with iterative updates for web/app.
- Shoot, script, edit, and publish video packages; capture social-first clips; ensure consistent style and tone.
- Contribute to podcasts.
- Use social platforms to promote stories, engage communities, and drive subscribers.
- Hyperlocal Community Focus
- Surface neighbourhood-level issues (roads, schools, housing, amenities, policing, health access), celebrate local people and groups.
- Deliver engaging lifestyle coverage (food, drink, culture, entertainment, local trends).
- Respond rapidly to breaking local news, filing updates and explainers that help residents make sense of events.
- Standards & Governance
- Uphold the Mediahuis Editorial Code of Practice and relevant legal/professional codes; ensure high levels of accuracy, fairness, and integrity.
- Proven experience breaking stories under deadline pressure; strong news judgment
- At least 2 years’ journalism experience preferred
- Knowledge of issues affecting Derry ~ Londonderry and the North West
- Ability to produce video and social content to newsroom standards
- Digital-first mindset; comfortable with live publishing, iterative updates, and social packaging
- Excellent writing, analysis, and headline craft
- Strong contact-building and community rapport
- Video storytelling (shooting, scripting, editing) and audio basics; confident on-camera/voice a plus
- Collaborative, calm under pressure, deadline-driven
From supportive working options and wellbeing initiatives, to learning opportunities and career growth, Mediahuis is a place where you can do meaningful work and thrive. These are just a few of the benefits our team members receive: Minimum of 35 days annual leave.
Journalist in Londonderry employer: Mediahuis IRL
Contact Detail:
Mediahuis IRL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Journalist in Londonderry
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with fellow journalists, editors, and local influencers. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on social media. Building a solid network can lead to exclusive stories and job opportunities!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a portfolio that showcases your best work, including articles, videos, and any multimedia content you've produced. Make sure it’s easily accessible online, so potential employers can see what you bring to the table. We love seeing creativity in action!
✨Stay Current and Relevant
Keep up with the latest news trends and digital storytelling techniques. Follow industry leaders, read up on new tools, and experiment with different formats. This will not only enhance your skills but also show employers that you’re proactive and passionate about journalism.
✨Apply Through Our Website
When you find a role that excites you, apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re always looking for fresh talent to join our dynamic team at the Belfast Telegraph!
We think you need these skills to ace Journalist in Londonderry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Storytelling Skills: As a journalist, your ability to tell a compelling story is key. Make sure your application showcases your best writing samples and any multimedia content you've created. We want to see how you can engage an audience!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send the same CV and cover letter everywhere! Tailor your application to highlight your experience relevant to the Belfast Telegraph and the specific role. We love seeing how you connect your skills to our mission.
Highlight Your Local Knowledge: Since this role focuses on Derry ~ Londonderry, make sure to mention your understanding of local issues and communities. We’re looking for someone who can connect with our audience, so show us you know what matters to them!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at the Belfast Telegraph!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mediahuis IRL
✨Know Your Local Stories
Before the interview, dive deep into the local news landscape of Derry ~ Londonderry. Familiarise yourself with recent stories, community issues, and key figures in the area. This will not only show your passion for local journalism but also demonstrate your ability to engage with the community.
✨Showcase Your Digital Skills
Prepare examples of your digital storytelling prowess. Bring along a portfolio that highlights your best work, including articles, videos, and social media posts. Be ready to discuss how you’ve used different platforms to engage audiences and drive subscriptions.
✨Practice Under Pressure
Since the role involves working under tight deadlines, simulate a fast-paced environment during your preparation. Try writing a short news piece or creating a social media post within a set time limit. This will help you articulate your thought process during the interview and showcase your ability to perform under pressure.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team, their approach to digital journalism, and how they engage with the community. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.