At a Glance
- Tasks: Write compelling features and analysis on UK policy topics.
- Company: Join Spotlight, the New Statesman's award-winning policy section.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, extra days off, and a discounted shopping programme.
- Why this job: Shape the future of UK policy while working in a dynamic, engaging environment.
- Qualifications: Strong writing skills and a keen interest in UK politics required.
- Other info: Hybrid work model: four days in the office, one day from home.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Job Description
Policy Correspondent, Spotlight
Location: Farringdon, London (four days/week in the office, one day from home)
Spotlight is the New Statesman’s award-winning policy section and supplement. We report on the ideas shaping the future of the UK, with a particular focus on the intersection between politics, public policy and business. From housing and healthcare to education, AI, energy and the economy, Spotlight covers the full spectrum of policy areas with rigour, authority and clarity. We publish in-depth features, interviews, opinion pieces and reports, both editorial and commercially sponsored, for an audience of policymakers, business leaders and engaged readers.
We are looking for a Policy Correspondent to join our team. The successful candidate will be a strong writer and original thinker with a keen interest in domestic policy and the machinery of government. You’ll work closely with the Spotlight editor to pitch and produce compelling features and analysis, contribute to long-form special reports and supplements, and help shape our coverage across a range of topics.
This is a wide-ranging role that requires intellectual curiosity, strong editorial judgment and an ability to explain complex ideas clearly. You’ll need to be confident conducting interviews, sourcing data, identifying story angles and turning around high-quality copy on tight deadlines.
Reporting to the Spotlight editor, you will:
- pitch and write original features, profiles, interviews and analysis across a broad range of policy topics
- research trends, identify story angles and propose both reactive and long-form coverage ideas
- conduct interviews with politicians, policymakers, academics and industry figures
- commission or edit contributions from external writers
- contribute to supplements and commercially sponsored content
- work with layouts and design to bring copy to publication standard.
Skills and experience:
- Experience in journalism, policy communications or a similar editorial environment
- Excellent writing, research and explanatory skills
- A solid understanding of UK politics and policymaking
- The confidence and initiative to pitch ideas and conduct interviews
- Experience in commissioning or editing (desirable)
- Familiarity with Adobe InDesign (desirable)
Company benefits
- 25 days' holiday (plus bank holidays)
- Additional days off for your birthday, health and well-being day and volunteering day
- Subscription to NS, other group publications and all other online content
- Access to a discounted shopping program
- Cycle to work scheme
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Enhanced company sick pay after probation
To apply, please submit your CV and a short covering letter outlining your suitability for the role. Applications meeting the selection criteria will be reviewed as soon as possible.
New Statesman Limited values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. Please inform the hiring manager if you require any reasonable adjustments so that you can fully participate in the recruitment process.
Please note, candidates must have, or be able to independently obtain, the right to live and work in the United Kingdom as we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
Correspondent employer: New Statesman Spotlight
Contact Detail:
New Statesman Spotlight Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Correspondent
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in UK politics and public policy. This will not only help you understand the context of the role but also enable you to pitch relevant and timely story ideas that resonate with the Spotlight team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in journalism and policy communications. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into the role and possibly refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interviewing skills by conducting mock interviews with friends or colleagues. This will build your confidence and help you refine your ability to ask insightful questions, which is crucial for the Policy Correspondent position.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the New Statesman's content and style. Understanding their editorial voice and the types of features they publish will allow you to tailor your pitches effectively and demonstrate your fit for the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Correspondent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Policy Correspondent position. Familiarise yourself with the types of content Spotlight produces and the key policy areas they cover.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should clearly outline your suitability for the role. Highlight your experience in journalism or policy communications, your understanding of UK politics, and your ability to pitch and write original features. Make it personal and engaging!
Showcase Your Writing Skills: Include samples of your writing that demonstrate your ability to explain complex ideas clearly and concisely. If possible, provide examples related to policy topics to show your familiarity with the subject matter.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV is tailored to the job description. Emphasise relevant experience, skills, and achievements that align with the requirements of the Policy Correspondent role. Keep it concise and focused on what makes you a strong candidate.
How to prepare for a job interview at New Statesman Spotlight
✨Know Your Policy Topics
Familiarise yourself with current UK policy issues, especially those related to housing, healthcare, and education. Being able to discuss these topics intelligently will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This not only demonstrates your curiosity but also shows that you are engaged and serious about the position.
✨Showcase Your Writing Skills
Bring samples of your writing that highlight your ability to explain complex ideas clearly. This could include articles, reports, or any relevant content that showcases your editorial judgement and style.
✨Practice Interviewing Techniques
Since the role involves conducting interviews, practice your interviewing skills. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach interviewing politicians or industry figures, and share examples of past interviews you've conducted.