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- Tasks: Cover local stories across digital, social, and print platforms in beautiful East Devon.
- Company: Join a close-knit team at a leading local news organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, career progression, and perks like gym memberships and retail discounts.
- Why this job: Be the voice of your community and make an impact through storytelling.
- Qualifications: NCTJ diploma required; driving licence and car access essential.
- Other info: Flexible working options with opportunities for trainees and experienced journalists.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a reporter to join our East Devon titles — the Exmouth Journal, Sidmouth Herald and Midweek Herald — covering one of the most beautiful and close‑knit patches in the region. You’ll be at the heart of the local community, telling the stories that matter across digital, social and print. The role suits someone who enjoys getting out on patch, building contacts and establishing themselves as a trusted voice in East Devon. You’ll report on everything from local businesses and community events to crime, human‑interest stories and local politics. The role is based primarily in our newsroom, with flexibility to work from home, but you must live on patch. We welcome applications from trainee reporters looking for their first newsroom opportunity, as well as experienced journalists. An NCTJ preliminary diploma (including some shorthand) is essential, and candidates must have a driving licence and access to a car.
Key Responsibilities
- Write high‑quality, accurate digital news stories, live blogs and features to deadline.
- Use a range of digital tools and platforms, including video, audio, infographics and maps.
- Craft and publish engaging social media posts to promote stories and drive audience interaction.
- Use social media to build contacts, identify story leads and monitor what’s happening in the community.
- Engage readers and grow reach through tailored email newsletters and subscription messaging.
- Report accurate breaking news and keep audiences fully updated.
- Generate creative story ideas and produce content suited to digital platforms.
- Build digital audience numbers and grow social media following.
- Identify national or regional stories with local relevance and tailor them for local readers.
- Monitor court activity and work with court reporters to deliver strong coverage and maximise weekly listings.
- Develop ideas from colleagues and community contributors for local digital audiences.
- Use SEO techniques to identify opportunities and follow trends.
- Use analytics (with editorial guidance) to understand reader behaviour and inform coverage.
- Build strong community contacts and spend time on patch.
- Collaborate with reporting teams across the UK, sharing ideas and best practice.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Excellent knowledge of relevant media law.
- Versatile, fresh and energetic writing style with strong attention to detail.
- Ability to write quickly and think clearly under pressure.
- Adaptable writing style suitable for live blogs, listicles, long reads and features.
- Strong skills in shooting and editing video, and using digital tools for images and audio.
- Willingness to embrace new initiatives, including AI‑assisted reporting.
- Strong news sense and plenty of ideas for digital storytelling.
- Understanding of digital audience behaviour and what readers want.
- Knowledge of SEO and its importance to digital journalism.
- Excellent social media skills and ability to spot stories and trending topics.
- Strong people skills with the ability to build community relationships.
- High level of organisation and diary management while working on patch.
- Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively with digital reporting teams.
- Willingness to work across multiple patches with a regional mindset.
Benefits
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays + your birthday off
- Holiday buy scheme for extra flexibility
- Structured career progression & ongoing training
- Pension plan
- Employee Helpline counselling and advice
- Perks & discounts including: Gym membership, Cycle to Work scheme, Eye care, Retail discounts
- Team building days & annual volunteer charity day
Reporter - East Devon in Exeter employer: Newsquest Media Group
Contact Detail:
Newsquest Media Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Reporter - East Devon in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know your local community like the back of your hand! Spend time out on patch, attend events, and chat with locals. The more connections you build, the easier it’ll be to spot those juicy story leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Use platforms like Twitter and Facebook to engage with your audience and promote your stories. It’s also a great way to keep an eye on trending topics and what people are talking about in East Devon.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to adapt your writing style for different formats. Whether it’s a live blog or a feature piece, make sure you can switch gears quickly. Practice makes perfect, so try writing in various styles to find your groove!
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re all about finding the right fit for our team, so make sure your application shines. Show us your passion for storytelling and your understanding of the local scene!
We think you need these skills to ace Reporter - East Devon in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Local Stories: When you're writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for covering local news. Share examples of stories you've reported on or community events you've been involved in. We want to know why East Devon matters to you!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight your experience with digital tools and social media, as well as any relevant qualifications like your NCTJ diploma. Show us how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate a straightforward approach. Keep your writing clear and to the point, showcasing your ability to communicate effectively. Remember, as a reporter, clarity is key, so demonstrate that in your application!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newsquest Media Group
✨Know Your Patch
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with East Devon and its local stories. Research recent news articles from the Exmouth Journal, Sidmouth Herald, and Midweek Herald to understand the community's interests and concerns. This will show your potential employer that you’re genuinely invested in the area.
✨Showcase Your Writing Skills
Bring along samples of your writing that demonstrate your versatility and ability to engage readers. Whether it’s a live blog, a feature, or a social media post, having tangible examples will help you stand out. Be prepared to discuss your writing process and how you adapt your style for different platforms.
✨Demonstrate Digital Savvy
Familiarise yourself with the digital tools and platforms mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss how you would use video, audio, and infographics in your reporting. Highlight any experience you have with SEO techniques and analytics, as these are crucial for growing audience engagement.
✨Build Community Connections
Emphasise your ability to build relationships within the community. Share examples of how you’ve previously engaged with local contacts or sources. This is key for a reporter role, so showing that you can establish trust and gather stories from the community will be a big plus.