At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our fast-paced news desk, editing and managing engaging stories for print and online.
- Company: The Express, a leading national news outlet based in London.
- Benefits: 25 days holiday, flexible working, healthcare cash plan, and financial wellbeing support.
- Other info: We value diverse perspectives and encourage applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make an impact in journalism while working with a passionate team on breaking news.
- Qualifications: NCTJ-qualified journalist with at least 5 years of national newsroom experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are 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.
About this role
What will the role involve? You will support the Head of News and the wider newsdesk in managing, reviewing, and maintaining the exceptional quality of news content across the Express. You will work actively on the newsdesk, 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.
London‑Based (Hub): This role is based out of our London office. We operate a flexible working model, but due to the fast‑paced nature of a national newsdesk, you will need to be within a commutable distance of the Canary Wharf hub.
Who are we looking for?
- 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.
How we’ll look after you
- 25 days' holiday (plus bank holidays), plus additional days after being with us for three, five and ten years, and a scheme to help you buy extra holiday if you want to.
- 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.
- 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 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.
- Interest‑free loans – including for season tickets and technology.
Additional Information
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.
Assistant News Editor employer: The Express
At the Express, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our supportive policies, including generous holiday allowances, flexible working arrangements, and comprehensive wellbeing support. Join us to be part of a vibrant team that values diverse perspectives and fosters a culture of inclusivity, ensuring you can thrive both personally and professionally.
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 the perfect Assistant News Editor role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best work, including articles, breaking news stories, and any multimedia content. This will help you stand out when you’re chatting with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for the fast-paced environment! Brush up on your decision-making skills and be prepared to discuss how you handle pressure during interviews. They’ll want to see that you can keep up with the demands of a national news desk.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are excited about joining us at the Express. It shows initiative and enthusiasm, which are key traits we look for in an Assistant News Editor.
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! Share specific examples of stories you've covered or exclusive news you've broken to demonstrate your passion and experience in the field.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience. Mention your time on busy news desks and any multi-platform work you've done, as this will show us you're a great fit for the role.
Be Clear and Concise:We love a well-structured application! Keep your writing clear and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and skills at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Express
✨Know Your News
Before the interview, make sure you’re up to speed with the latest news stories, especially those relevant to the Express. Familiarise yourself with their style and recent articles to show that you understand their brand and audience.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous roles in detail, particularly any experience on a busy newsdesk. Highlight specific examples where you made quick editorial decisions or broke significant stories to demonstrate your capability for this fast-paced role.
✨Demonstrate Your Multi-Platform Skills
Since the role involves both print and online platforms, prepare to talk about your experience with digital publishing. Share examples of how you've successfully adapted content for different formats and engaged audiences across various channels.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, the challenges they face, and how they measure success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
