At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a fast-paced news desk, editing and managing engaging stories across print and online.
- Company: London Reach, a dynamic media company with a focus on quality journalism.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, flexible working, healthcare support, and financial wellbeing resources.
- Other info: Flexible hours required, including evenings and weekends, with great career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make your mark in journalism and lead exciting news stories that matter.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in national newsrooms; NCTJ-qualified or senior journalist ready to step up.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
London Reach is looking for an Assistant News Editor to join us at The Express. This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious senior reporter, chief reporter, or assistant news editor to step into a pivotal, fast‑paced role on a busy national news desk. Based in London, you will bring a sharp eye for a story, immense enthusiasm, and the confidence to make quick, high‑level editorial decisions. Working across both print and online platforms, you will help run on‑ and off‑diary news, ensuring our output is fast, trustworthy, and deeply engaging. If you are a seasoned journalist with national desk experience or a senior ready to make the leap and you have the drive to keep us ahead of our rivals, we want to hear from you.
Responsibilities
- You will support the Head of News and the wider news desk in managing, reviewing, and maintaining the exceptional quality of news content across the Express.
- You will work actively on the news desk, running on‑ and off‑diary news while editing stories to strict Express standards for both print and digital platforms.
- You will help oversee the operational performance of the reporting team, finding, breaking, and sourcing major exclusives that keep us ahead of our rivals.
- You will play a key role in developing the department, updating relevant sections of the site, building brand identity, and optimizing content alongside other editorial teams.
Please note: While you will heavily support, coach, and manage the daily workflow of the reporting team, this role does not have direct line management reports.
Qualifications
- Desk Experience: You have national newsroom experience (ideally at least 5 years). We are looking for an Assistant News Editor, but an accomplished Chief Reporter or Senior Reporter ready to step up is highly encouraged to apply.
- Multi‑Platform Background: A strong understanding of online publishing is essential, coupled with proven experience working on a busy print newsdesk.
- Decisive & Energetic: You are a self‑motivated individual who can think and act quickly under pressure, with a genuine passion for breaking exclusive news.
- Journalistic Excellence: You are an NCTJ-qualified (or senior qualified) journalist with a sharp eye for a story, high professionalism, and a keen interest in current affairs.
- Flexibility & Location: You are London‑based and completely understand the Express brand and what drives reader engagement. This role involves shift work, including evenings and weekends, so a flexible approach to hours is required.
Benefits
- 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.
- Financial Wellbeing – Access Stream, our app for managing your finances, pay, rewards and benefits all in one place.
- 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.
Assistant News Editor employer: Southern Daily Echo
At Reach, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where creativity and journalistic excellence thrive. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our supportive policies, generous benefits including extra leave for personal milestones, and a focus on wellbeing, ensuring that our team feels valued both professionally and personally. Join us at The Express, where your contributions will not only shape the news landscape but also be recognised and rewarded in a collaborative and engaging culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant News Editor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the industry, attend journalism events, and engage with fellow reporters on social media. You never know who might have a lead on your next big opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work, including articles, breaking news stories, and any multimedia content. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Reach out directly to news organisations, like us at The Express, and express your interest in potential roles. A little initiative can go a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current affairs! As an aspiring Assistant News Editor, being well-informed is crucial. Follow the latest news trends and be ready to discuss them in interviews to show your passion and knowledge.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant News Editor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for News:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for journalism shine through! We want to see that you have a genuine interest in current affairs and a knack for spotting a great story.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in national newsrooms. We’re looking for someone with a strong background, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements and how they align with the role.
Be Clear and Concise:In the fast-paced world of news, clarity is key. Keep your application straightforward and to the point, demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively under pressure—just like you would on the job!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at The Express!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southern Daily Echo
✨Know Your News
Before the interview, brush up on current affairs and recent stories relevant to The Express. Being able to discuss trending topics and how they relate to the publication will show your enthusiasm and understanding of their audience.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your editorial decision-making skills and ability to work under pressure. Discussing your experience with both print and online platforms will demonstrate your versatility and readiness for the role.
✨Be Decisive
During the interview, be prepared to answer hypothetical scenarios where you need to make quick editorial decisions. This will showcase your ability to think on your feet and your confidence in handling fast-paced news environments.
✨Engage with the Brand
Familiarise yourself with The Express's brand identity and audience engagement strategies. Showing that you understand what drives their readership will help you stand out as a candidate who is not only qualified but also aligned with their goals.
