At a Glance
- Tasks: Cover Southampton FC and local sports, delivering engaging content across digital and social platforms.
- Company: Join the Southern Daily Echo, a dynamic newsroom focused on high-quality local journalism.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, structured career progression, and perks like gym membership and retail discounts.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with opportunities for professional development and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make your mark in sports journalism while learning from experienced mentors in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Passion for sports, strong writing skills, and experience in digital journalism are essential.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 € per year.
We’re looking for an energetic, dynamic Sports Reporter to join the Southern Daily Echo, covering Southampton FC and the wider local sporting scene. This is a key role in our newsroom, focused on delivering high‑quality, engaging coverage of Saints alongside grassroots and non‑league sport across the patch. You’ll be a talented writer with strong multimedia skills, confident in producing content across digital, video and social platforms.
Key Responsibilities
- You will work alongside our Senior Sports Reporter and benefit from his mentoring.
- A deep understanding of Southampton FC is essential, along with the drive to break stories, build contacts and provide insight that resonates with our loyal audience, including digital subscribers.
- We’re looking for someone who can bring energy, authority and originality to their reporting both online and in print.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Demonstrable digital journalism experience in a fast-paced newsroom, with a strong track record.
- In-depth knowledge of Southampton FC and a keen interest in local sport at all levels.
- The ability to generate original story ideas and develop them into engaging content.
- Strong writing skills, from breaking news to in‑depth features and analysis.
- Experience or confidence in video, audio and social storytelling, including filming and editing on mobile.
- The confidence to appear on short and long‑form video, podcasts or live blogs when required.
- A solid understanding of social media platforms and how to grow and engage audiences.
- Knowledge of SEO and digital publishing best practice.
- An interest in football tactics, data or analysis, including the ability to produce insightful tactical analysis.
- Experience or enthusiasm for writing and growing newsletters.
- A relevant NCTJ-accredited journalism qualification or equivalent experience.
- The ability to support the wider newsroom with general news coverage when required.
We want someone who can cover Southampton FC with authority and flair, while also shining a light on the wider local sports scene. You’ll be part of a busy, ambitious newsroom with a strong digital focus and a commitment to high‑quality local journalism. We are committed to developing journalists, and as such, you will be enrolled on an NCTJ-accredited programme, putting you on the path to qualify as a Senior Sports Reporter upon successful completion of your course. This role reports directly to the Editor.
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.
Sports Reporter - Southampton employer: Newsquest
Join the Southern Daily Echo as a Sports Reporter in Southampton, where you'll thrive in a vibrant newsroom dedicated to high-quality local journalism. With a strong focus on employee development, you will benefit from mentoring and an NCTJ-accredited programme, ensuring your growth as a journalist. Enjoy a supportive work culture that values creativity and collaboration, alongside generous benefits like 25 days holiday, flexible working options, and team-building activities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sports Reporter - Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Southampton FC inside out! Dive into their history, recent matches, and player stats. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also show your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend local sports events, engage with fellow journalists, and connect with players and coaches. Building relationships can lead to exclusive stories and job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your multimedia skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your writing, video, and social media content. This will demonstrate your versatility and make you stand out to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Sports Reporter - Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Sports:When writing your application, let your love for sports shine through! Talk about your experiences with Southampton FC and local sports. We want to see that you’re not just a fan but someone who lives and breathes the game.
Tailor Your Writing Samples:Make sure to include writing samples that showcase your versatility. Whether it’s breaking news or in-depth features, we want to see how you can engage readers across different formats. Choose pieces that highlight your multimedia skills too!
Be Original and Insightful:We’re looking for fresh ideas and unique perspectives. In your application, share any original story ideas you have about Southampton FC or local sports. Show us how you can bring energy and originality to our newsroom!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at the Southern Daily Echo.
How to prepare for a job interview at Newsquest
✨Know Your Southampton FC Inside Out
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of Southampton FC. Familiarise yourself with their recent matches, key players, and any ongoing issues. This will not only show your passion for the club but also demonstrate that you can engage with the audience authentically.
✨Showcase Your Multimedia Skills
Prepare a portfolio that highlights your writing, video, and social media content. Bring examples of your best work to the interview, especially pieces that showcase your ability to tell stories across different platforms. This will help us see how you can contribute to our digital focus.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Original Story Ideas
Think of a few original story ideas related to Southampton FC or local sports that you could pitch during the interview. This shows initiative and creativity, which are key traits we’re looking for in a Sports Reporter.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of SEO
Brush up on SEO best practices and be prepared to discuss how you would apply them to your reporting. Knowing how to optimise content for search engines is crucial in today’s digital journalism landscape, and it’ll set you apart from other candidates.
