At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic newsroom, breaking exclusives and managing news coverage for print and online.
- Company: Join Reach, the UK's largest commercial news publisher with over 120 trusted brands.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days' holiday, flexible working, and a range of health and wellbeing perks.
- Other info: We value diverse backgrounds and encourage everyone to apply, regardless of qualifications.
- Why this job: Make an impact in journalism while mentoring a passionate team in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a senior journalist/editor with strong knowledge of UK media law.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We’re looking for an experienced News Editor to join us at The Mirror to help lead our fast‑paced newsroom. This is a fantastic opportunity for a qualified editor with extensive national experience to find, break, and polish exclusives that keep us ahead of the competition. From managing live digital coverage to perfecting print leads, you’ll play a pivotal role in our daily news output.
About us: Hello, we’re Reach. Every day, our trusted news, stories and content connect with millions of people where they live - whether that’s on their social feed or at their neighbourhood newsstand; through their local community or their take on the hot topic of the day. We're home to more than 120 trusted brands - from household names like The Mirror, Express, Daily Star and Daily Record, to local titles like MyLondon, BelfastLive, and the Manchester Evening News, and brands making a splash in the US like the Irish Star. It's our ability to understand people and the things that matter to them that makes us the UK and Ireland's largest commercial news publisher. We reach 70% of the UK's online population and speak to over 100 million social followers around the world.
Your story, with Reach: As a modern media organisation, we're much more than just news. And it takes a wide range of people and skills to serve diverse audiences, customers and communities like we do. We know everyone has their own story to tell, so we’ve built an environment where every background is respected and every day is a day to explore. We’ll help you build a career that works with your life, while giving you the space to create and grow.
What will the role involve? You will drive the news desk’s success by managing on and off-diary news, for both print and online. You will source and break exclusives, supporting the Head of News in managing and maintaining the overall quality of our news output. You will implement a strong vision to develop the team and build brand identity, proactively proposing areas for growth while maintaining the digital site and ensuring all section pages remain updated. You will also manage and mentor members of the newsroom by coaching individual reporters, assessing training needs, and news‑editing stories to exacting Mirror standards for both print and online. You will oversee administrative tasks like rotas and payments when needed as well as assisting senior staff as required, while collaborating with colleagues to optimise content. This role involves working shifts on a rota basis including evenings and weekends, so a flexible approach is required.
Who are we looking for? You are an experienced senior journalist and editor with an NCTJ/NQJ or relevant time served experience and in‑depth knowledge of UK media law. You have an excellent understanding of online publishing as well as proven experience on a busy print newsdesk. You think on your feet and act quickly, keeping up with the pace of a national newsroom with ease. You have demonstrable experience and a passion for breaking exclusive news stories and know how to encourage your team to do the same. You have a solid grasp of The Mirror’s brand and know exactly what type of content drives engagements with our print and digital audiences. You are a supportive and inspiring people manager who can motivate your team of reporters to ensure all their content meets our high standards.
How we'll look after you: We take good care of our people - and that means more than just a pay packet. Whatever your role, you'll get a range of benefits, including:
- 25 days' holiday (plus bank holidays), as well as an extra day after you've been with us for three, five and 10 years.
- An extra day's paid leave each year to volunteer for a cause close to your community or your heart.
- Big moment day – an extra day’s paid leave for a moment that matters to you – like getting married, moving house or welcoming a new addition to the family (human or furry!).
- Help saving for your retirement – we'll match your company pension contributions up to 6% and you can contribute through salary sacrifice.
- Supportive and progressive people policies – we’re proud to have a range of policies to support people in their lives in and outside work, including enhanced family leave and policies to promote flexibility, inclusion and progression.
- A healthcare cash plan – giving you money back for a range of medical expenses and fast access to doctor's appointments.
- Car lease scheme – you can buy a brand new electric or hybrid car through our leasing partner, and pay for it through salary sacrifice.
- Wellbeing support – including a 24/7 assistance programme for you and your family.
- Access to lots of discounts – including 15% off with Reach's very own online marketplace, Yimbly, where you can buy everything from homewares to beauty products.
- Interest‑free loans – including for season tickets and technology.
If you’re excited about this role but don’t tick every single box, please don’t let that stop you from applying. We know that everyone has their own story to tell, and we value potential, passion and the perspectives that different backgrounds bring to our work. Diverse perspectives strengthen our teams and help us better.
News Editor employer: REACH PLC
At Reach, we pride ourselves on being more than just a news organisation; we foster a vibrant and inclusive work culture that values every employee's unique story. As a News Editor, you'll benefit from generous holiday allowances, flexible working policies, and a commitment to your professional growth, all while working in a dynamic newsroom that reaches millions across the UK and Ireland. Join us to not only shape the news but also to thrive in an environment that supports your career aspirations and personal well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land News Editor
✨Get Involved in Local Journalism
Join local journalism groups or community events to meet industry folks and make connections. Try volunteering for community newspapers or online platforms – it's a great way to get your foot in the door and show your commitment to the craft.
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Create a personal website or a blog to showcase your best articles, videos, or multimedia projects. This not only highlights your skills but also demonstrates your passion for journalism and helps establish your personal brand in the media landscape.
✨Stay Updated on the Industry Trends
Follow industry leaders on social media and stay updated on the latest trends in journalism. Engage with them by sharing your thoughts or asking questions – you never know when an informative tweet might catch the eye of a recruiter or journalist at REACH PLC!
✨Explore Internships for Full-Time Opportunities
Don’t shy away from internships, even if you’re looking for full-time roles. Many journalism companies, like REACH PLC, often hire from their intern pool, so using these as stepping stones can really pay off. Keep an eye on their career page for any openings!
We think you need these skills to ace News Editor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Writing Skills:In journalism and media, your ability to write well is essential, so make sure your CV and cover letter reflect that. Include diverse writing samples, whether they’re articles, blog posts, or reports, that showcase your style and versatility. We want to see your voice and ability to engage an audience from the get-go!
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've interned at a media outlet or contributed to any publications—whether student-run or professional—don't keep it a secret! We love seeing real-world experience, so clearly detail your responsibilities and achievements. Quantify your impact where possible, like mentioning audience growth or story reach.
Tailor Your Application for REACH PLC:When applying for the News Editor role at REACH PLC, really dig into what makes their content stand out. Reference their tone, style, or any recent articles that resonated with you in your cover letter. This shows we you’re not just sending out generic applications—you’re genuinely interested in what we do!
Prepare for a Portfolio Spotlight:Since you're applying for a full-time role, you're likely expected to have a portfolio ready to go. Make sure to curate a selection of your best work that aligns with what REACH PLC produces. Provide a link to your online portfolio in your CV and be prepared to discuss your favourite pieces in interviews—this is your chance to shine!
How to prepare for a job interview at REACH PLC
✨Show Off Your Writing Skills
Prepare a portfolio that highlights your best writing samples. This is crucial in journalism as hiring managers want to see your voice and style. Make sure to include a variety of pieces, like news articles, features, and opinion pieces, showing your versatility.
✨Master the Art of Storytelling
During the interview, be ready to discuss how you approach storytelling. You might be asked to outline a story you reported on, your process for gathering information, and how you engage your audience. Practice telling a couple of your best stories concisely and compellingly.
✨Know the Current Media Landscape
Be prepared to discuss industry trends and how they affect journalism today. Familiarise yourself with key developments in media, and have opinions ready for discussions about digital versus traditional platforms, as well as ethical considerations in reporting.
✨Convey Your Passion and Drive
As you’re applying for a full-time role, they’ll want to know about your long-term commitment to journalism. Share your aspirations for future projects, any internships or freelance work, and how you see yourself growing within REACH PLC. Show that you’re not just looking for a job, but a career in journalism.
