At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead creative video projects and develop engaging content for social platforms.
- Company: Join Reach, a leading media organisation connecting millions through diverse stories.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, volunteer leave, and a bonus scheme.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with strong support for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a fast-paced environment while mentoring a talented team.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in creative leadership and social media expertise.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
Company Description
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 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 Britain and Ireland's largest commercial news publisher. We reach around 70% of the UK's online population, 10% of the US online population, and over 100 million social followers around the world, connecting with them on who they are, where they live and what they love.
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!
Job Description
In this 12-month maternity cover, we’re looking for a hands-on creative leader who can jump in, get to know our video teams quickly, and make an immediate impact. We’re looking for a Senior Video Leader with deep experience in original and branded content, for YouTube and Social platforms.
- Platform-First Innovation: Champion a "Video IP-first" culture designing content specifically for YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, using performance data to continuously optimise retention and growth.
- Video Strategy & IP Development: Lead Reach Studio’s premium video strategy across Sport, Lifestyle, and Current Events. Drive platform-native, long-running franchises and scalable communities over reactive, one-off content.
- Creative Guardrails & Quality Assurance: Serve as the lead creative guardian across all formats, storytelling, talent, and visual identity to ensure high artistic standards and strong audience appeal.
- Branded Content & Commercial Growth: Direct high-value branded video projects, partnering with sales teams and clients to pitch and deliver scalable, commercially viable video propositions.
- Team Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and empower a multidisciplinary team of producers, videographers, and editors, fostering an ambitious, inclusive, and high-performing creative environment.
- Production & Commissioning: Oversee the format commissioning process and collaborate with Operations to deliver ambitious creative projects on budget and at scale.
Qualifications
What You’ll Need to Succeed
- Proven Creative Leadership: Extensive track record as a Creative Director, Executive Producer, or Senior Content Lead overseeing original video, studio production, and social-first formats.
- Platform & Social Expertise: Deep mastery of YouTube algorithms, retention dynamics, and short-form video ecosystems (TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts).
- Commercial Acumen: Strong experience directing high-value branded content that seamlessly balances client goals with editorial integrity.
- Seamless Integration: Ability to jump in quickly, build strong cross-functional relationships, and maintain high team momentum in a fast-paced maternity cover.
- People Management: Success in coaching, inspiring, and managing multidisciplinary production teams under tight deadlines.
- Production & Tech Literacy: Robust understanding of video operations, post-production pipelines, and a forward-thinking curiosity for AI-assisted workflows.
Additional Information
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 as well as an extra day after you've been with us for three, five and 10 years. We also have a scheme to help you buy extra holiday if you want to.
- 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!).
- Bonus scheme - you'll get a stake in our success and a chance to add to your annual earnings.
- 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 serve our audiences, which is why we’re dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and supported.
As an equal opportunities employer, we encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to a recruitment process that is fair and welcoming to all, without discrimination on the basis of age, disability, gender identity, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.
Head of Original Content - Mat Cover FTC in London employer: Reach
At Reach, we pride ourselves on being more than just a media organisation; we are a community that values diverse stories and perspectives. As a Remote Talent Acquisition Sourcer, you'll enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being, offers generous benefits like extra holiday for significant life events, and fosters continuous growth through inclusive hiring practices. Join us in shaping the future of journalism while benefiting from our commitment to your career development and work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Original Content - Mat Cover FTC in London
✨Get Your Foot in the Door
Temporary roles often pop up when companies need extra hands for specific projects, so keep an eye on local job boards and news websites. Don’t hesitate to check out industry-specific platforms like Journalism.co.uk or local community groups for short-term gigs.
✨Network Like a Pro
Attend journalism and media events in your area, such as press launches or panel discussions. These are golden opportunities to meet industry insiders who might have the scoop on temporary openings. Plus, connecting with your peers can lead to unexpected recommendations.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a portfolio that showcases your best work, even if it’s just student projects or freelance articles. For journalism, a strong online presence is key, so make sure to share your pieces on platforms like Medium or your own blog to attract potential employers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Site
We often have temporary positions available at Reach. Keep an eye on our careers page and apply directly – you're one step closer to landing that opportunity. Tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences that make you a standout candidate!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Original Content - Mat Cover FTC in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Writing Style:When applying for a temporary role in journalism-media, it's crucial to exhibit your unique writing voice. Attach samples of your work that showcase not just your ability to report, but also to engage readers. A link to your online portfolio can really help us see your style and versatility!
Tailor Your CV to Highlight Relevant Experience:In the world of journalism-media, it’s all about storytelling and your CV should reflect that! Focus on any journalism-related internships, freelance articles, or relevant coursework. Make sure to include specific achievements, like publications or recognitions, that make you stand out.
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:For a temporary position, we want to know what excites you about journalism and why this role at Reach matters to you. Share your motivation for applying and what you hope to learn during your time with us. Let your passion for the media shine through!
Stay Current with Industry Trends:Show us that you’ve got your finger on the pulse of journalism-media trends. Reference recent developments or challenges in the industry in your application to demonstrate your enthusiasm and awareness. This can set you apart from other candidates who may not be as in-the-know!
How to prepare for a job interview at Reach
✨Showcase Your Versatility
In the world of journalism, adaptability is key. Be prepared to discuss various topics you've covered, whether it's breaking news, features, or investigative pieces. Bring along a portfolio that shows your range—think articles, videos, or even social media content you've created. This will demonstrate your ability to tackle different formats and subjects under pressure!
✨Nail That Story Pitch
As a temporary journalist, you'll need to hit the ground running. Before your interview with Reach, think about a compelling story idea you could pitch them. Tailor it to their audience and showcase your unique angle—this will show you're proactive and understand their publication's style, which is gold in fast-paced media environments.
✨Know Your Tools
Familiarise yourself with the tools journalists use—whether that’s content management systems, Adobe Suite, or video editing software. During the interview, highlight your proficiency with these tools. A temporary role at Reach might require you to jump into production quickly, and showing you're tech-savvy can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Quick Adaptation
In temporary roles, your ability to adapt and learn quickly is crucial. Be ready to discuss a time when you had to adjust your writing or reporting style to fit a new audience or medium. This will show Reach that you can thrive in dynamic situations and won't just be another warm body—but a valuable team member right from day one.
