Home Affairs Editor Editorial · The Observer Newsroom, London
Home Affairs Editor Editorial · The Observer Newsroom, London

Home Affairs Editor Editorial · The Observer Newsroom, London

London Full-Time 50000 - 65000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
The Observer, company

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead home affairs coverage, pitch original stories, and conduct exclusive investigations.
  • Company: The Observer, a progressive publication committed to impactful journalism.
  • Benefits: 30 days holiday, flexible remote work, and a diverse team environment.
  • Other info: Join a motivated team dedicated to inclusivity and equal opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a difference in journalism while exploring critical issues that shape society.
  • Qualifications: 5+ years in national reporting with strong writing and investigative skills.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.

Permanent contract. Full-time, Tuesday to Saturday, with the flexibility to work remotely one day a week.

Who are we?

The Observer’s promise is in the name. The Observer bears witness; the best of journalism being curious minds at work. It loves the arts and ideas, both for their own sake and because they can change lives. It’s proudly progressive, but has no party allegiance. It’s open to different arguments and its editorial independence is non-negotiable. We are building a new Observer across print, audio and digital. We’re here to build journalism that lasts.

What’s the job?

We are looking for an experienced home affairs editor to cover major stories across the UK and deliver exclusive investigations and long-reads. The successful candidate will have a particular interest in policing, crime, courts, legal affairs, extremism, and terrorism, with a full contacts book in these areas.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Pitching original ideas for stories in your field across print, digital and audio
  • Developing and creating relationships with contacts in your field
  • Writing news stories, investigations and long-reads
  • Planning and scheduling coverage of key news events in your field and managing deadlines
  • Contributing to events at The Observer and a dedication to promoting your stories

Key skills & experience include:

  • At least 5 years’ experience reporting for a national publication with excellent writing ability
  • Proven track record in breaking news stories in your patch and working on investigations
  • Excellent planning, organisational and communication skills, and knowledge of social media
  • Flexible and erudite thinker with a demonstrable love of home affairs

Working with us

We are a progressive business with a diverse, motivated team. We are committed to equal opportunities and creating an inclusive environment for all our employees, and we welcome applicants regardless of ethnic origin, national origin, gender, race, colour, religious beliefs, disability, sexual orientation or age.

Salary & Benefits: 30 days holiday +

Home Affairs Editor Editorial · The Observer Newsroom, London employer: The Observer, company

The Observer is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment in the heart of London. With a commitment to progressive journalism and a diverse team, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for professional growth in a rapidly evolving media landscape. Join us to be part of a mission that values curiosity, creativity, and impactful storytelling.
The Observer, company

Contact Detail:

The Observer, company Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Home Affairs Editor Editorial · The Observer Newsroom, London

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the journalism world, especially those who are already at The Observer or similar publications. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on what they're looking for.

Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work, especially pieces related to home affairs, crime, and investigations. Make sure it’s easily accessible online so potential employers can see your talent at a glance.

Tip Number 3

Stay updated on current events! Follow the latest news in policing, crime, and legal affairs. This not only helps you pitch relevant stories but also shows your passion and knowledge during interviews.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!

We think you need these skills to ace Home Affairs Editor Editorial · The Observer Newsroom, London

Journalistic Writing
Investigative Reporting
Story Pitching
Planning and Organisation
Communication Skills
Knowledge of Policing and Crime
Understanding of Legal Affairs
Familiarity with Extremism and Terrorism
Social Media Proficiency
Relationship Building
Deadline Management
Flexible Thinking
Interest in Home Affairs

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion for Home Affairs: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for home affairs shine through. Share specific examples of stories you've covered that relate to policing, crime, or legal affairs. We want to see your genuine interest and how it aligns with our mission at The Observer.

Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored to the role. Highlight your experience in breaking news and investigations, and don’t forget to mention your contacts in the field. We love seeing how your background fits with what we’re building at The Observer.

Pitch Original Ideas: In your application, consider including a couple of original story ideas that you think would resonate with our audience. This shows us that you’re not just a great writer but also a creative thinker who can contribute to our editorial vision.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about us and what we stand for at The Observer!

How to prepare for a job interview at The Observer, company

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you’re well-versed in current home affairs topics, especially those related to policing, crime, and legal matters. Brush up on recent investigations and be ready to discuss your insights and opinions on these issues.

Pitch Original Ideas

Prepare a few story ideas that you could pitch during the interview. Think about angles that haven’t been covered yet or unique perspectives on ongoing stories. This shows your creativity and understanding of the role.

Showcase Your Network

Highlight your contacts in the field. Be ready to discuss how you’ve built relationships with sources and how these connections have helped you break stories in the past. This is crucial for a role that relies heavily on networking.

Demonstrate Flexibility

The Observer values flexible thinkers, so be prepared to discuss how you adapt to changing news cycles and deadlines. Share examples of how you’ve managed tight schedules or pivoted your coverage based on breaking news.

Home Affairs Editor Editorial · The Observer Newsroom, London
The Observer, company
Location: London

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