At a Glance
- Tasks: Sub-edit and proof-read engaging racing content for digital platforms.
- Company: Join Spotlight Sports Group, a leader in sports media and technology.
- Benefits: Freelance flexibility with opportunities to shape iconic media brands.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team creating impactful digital storytelling.
- Qualifications: Passion for horseracing, strong writing skills, and newsroom experience.
- Other info: Work in a fast-paced environment with a focus on accuracy and creativity.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Spotlight Sports Group is a global media and technology company specialising in content and data within sports betting, horse racing and fantasy sports. With over 400 employees, the group operates multiple award-winning brands, including Racing Post, the world’s largest horse racing affiliate, Pickswise, myracing and Free Super Tips. We partner with leading operators across the betting industry to produce and build multilingual, best-in-class digital products and content to engage and educate customers.
As a freelance sub-editor, this is your chance to play a part in shaping the next chapter of an iconic media brand.
Job Summary:To deliver publication-ready copy as a digital publishing priority. Sub editors focus on accuracy, clarity, house style, formatting, SEO hygiene, and onward journeys. The goal is to protect standards while helping the newsroom publish faster and with fewer preventable errors.
What you’ll do:- Sub-edit and proof-read racing and tipping content, maintaining Racing Post’s editorial standards and authority.
- Prepare and package content across Racing Post digital platforms, ensuring accuracy, clarity and strong presentation.
- Optimise stories for engagement through sharp headlines, effective imagery, rich media, internal linking and clear onward journeys.
- Work closely with editors and reporters to help shape digital-first coverage aligned to defined audiences.
- Ensure the tone, style and layout of copy is in keeping with Company standards.
- Edit copy to remove spelling mistakes and grammatical errors.
- Fact check all copy.
- Rewrite copy to ensure it reads well.
- Proof read colleagues’ work.
- Adhere to media and copyright laws.
- Any other duties as and when required.
- Strong knowledge of horseracing and betting, with a clear enthusiasm for the sport.
- Experience in a newsroom or digital publishing environment.
- High standard of written English.
- Solid understanding and ability to write a story.
- Availability over weekends and bank holidays.
- Appreciation of visual aesthetics.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to use initiative and work without supervision.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills.
- Team player.
- IT literate.
- Basic knowledge of Adobe, InDesign and Knowledge.
- Experience of Glide, the in-house content management system.
- Publishing environment experience.
Sub-editor (freelance) employer: Spotlight Sports Group
Contact Detail:
Spotlight Sports Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Sub-editor (freelance)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the industry, attend events, and engage with professionals on social media. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that freelance gig.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best work, especially anything related to horseracing or betting. We want to see your flair for digital storytelling and how you can make content pop!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Reach out directly to companies like Spotlight Sports Group through our website. Express your interest and let us know how you can contribute to our exciting projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow relevant news and developments in sports betting and digital publishing. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also show us your passion for the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Sub-editor (freelance)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your passion for horseracing and betting, and how your experience aligns with our digital-first approach. Keep it engaging and personal – we want to see your personality!
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send the same CV everywhere! Tailor it to showcase your relevant experience in digital publishing and newsroom environments. Highlight any specific skills that match the job description, like your attention to detail and ability to work independently.
Show Off Your Editing Skills: Since this role is all about delivering publication-ready copy, consider including a brief editing sample with your application. This could be a before-and-after of a piece you’ve worked on, demonstrating your knack for clarity and accuracy.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process! It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Spotlight Sports Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of horse racing and betting. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends, key events, and terminology in the industry. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your genuine enthusiasm for the sport.
✨Showcase Your Editing Skills
Prepare examples of your previous work that highlight your editing prowess. Bring along samples where you've improved clarity, accuracy, and engagement. Be ready to discuss your process for fact-checking and maintaining editorial standards, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Understand the Company’s Voice
Dive into the Racing Post's content before your interview. Pay attention to their tone, style, and how they engage their audience. Being able to articulate how you would maintain and enhance their voice in your editing will impress the interviewers.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s digital strategy and how the sub-editor role fits into their vision. This shows that you're not just interested in the job, but also in contributing to the company's growth and success.