At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the editing and production of engaging sports journalism across print and digital platforms.
- Company: The Observer, a progressive publication committed to high-quality journalism.
- Benefits: Private healthcare, pension, cycle scheme, and free snacks in the newsroom.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of sports journalism and work with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in sports editing and exceptional copy-editing skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 € per year.
Work pattern: Thursday - Saturday (3 days per 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 sense 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.
Impact
The Observer is looking for a chief sports sub-editor to lead production of our print and digital sports journalism. Working closely with editors, reporters, and designers, you will oversee the editing and presentation of a broad range of sports journalism, from live events to analysis, features and long‐form pieces. Candidates must have exceptional editing skills, a sharp eye for detail and the ability to work confidently under pressure and to tight deadlines.
Responsibilities
- Lead the sub‐editing and production of sports content across print and digital, ensuring accuracy, clarity and consistency with The Observer's editorial standards.
- Write sharp, engaging and SEO‐conscious headlines, stand‐firsts and captions that maximise reader engagement across platforms.
- Manage the sports production workflow, prioritising content effectively to meet tight deadlines in a fast‐paced newsroom environment.
- Collaborate closely with editors, reporters and correspondents to shape copy, maintain tone of voice and strengthen storytelling.
- Collaborate with editors and designers to create high‐quality layouts that best showcase our sports journalism.
- Liaise with audience and digital teams to optimise content for online performance, including homepage, app and social distribution.
- Maintain rigorous editorial standards, ensuring all content complies with media law, ethical guidelines and house style.
About You
The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in sports editing at a national news organisation or magazine and will be comfortable working across print and digital formats, collaborating with reporters, designers and audience teams to deliver ambitious, engaging and accurate journalism.
- Extensive experience editing sport for a national newspaper, magazine or major digital publisher.
- Experience as a chief sub or senior sub at a national newspaper.
- Exceptional copy‐editing and headline‐writing skills, with meticulous attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong knowledge of a wide range of sports, including the ability to handle breaking news and live events confidently.
- Proven experience working to tight deadlines in a fast‐paced newsroom environment.
- Excellent understanding of media law, editorial standards and journalistic ethics.
- Experience collaborating with reporters, production, design and audience teams to deliver high‐quality journalism.
- Strong organisational and leadership skills, with the ability to manage workloads and priorities effectively.
Salary & Benefits
- Private healthcare
- Group income protection & life assurance
- Pension
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Interest‐free season ticket loan
- Free snacks and drinks in the newsroom
Our Process
We aim to run our interview process at pace and with clarity at every stage, recognising how challenging it can be to balance alongside other commitments or interviews. The number of stages will vary depending on the nature and level of the role, but we see this as a two‐way process and hope you'll enjoy the opportunity to meet a range of potential future colleagues.
Chief Sports Sub-Editor in London employer: The Observer UK
The Observer is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and collaboration in the heart of journalism. With a commitment to editorial independence and progressive values, employees benefit from a supportive culture that prioritises professional growth, alongside attractive perks such as private healthcare and a Cycle to Work scheme. Join us in shaping the future of sports journalism across print and digital platforms, where your contributions will truly make an impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Sports Sub-Editor in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the industry, attend events, and engage with professionals on social media. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work in sports journalism. Include examples of your editing prowess, engaging headlines, and any standout pieces you've produced. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its editorial style. Familiarise yourself with The Observer's recent sports coverage and think about how you can contribute to their vision. Tailor your responses to show you're the perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at The Observer.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Sports Sub-Editor in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Editing Skills:Make sure your application highlights your exceptional editing skills. We want to see how you can bring clarity and consistency to sports journalism, so include examples of your work that demonstrate your sharp eye for detail.
Craft Engaging Headlines:Since writing sharp, engaging headlines is key for us, take the time to showcase your headline-writing prowess in your application. Think about how you can make your application stand out with catchy and SEO-conscious titles.
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:Collaboration is at the heart of what we do, so let us know about your experience working closely with editors, reporters, and designers. Share specific examples of how you've shaped copy and maintained a strong tone of voice in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with The Observer.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Observer UK
✨Know Your Sports Inside Out
As a Chief Sports Sub-Editor, you need to demonstrate a deep understanding of various sports. Brush up on recent events, key players, and trending topics in the sports world. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Editing Skills
Prepare examples of your previous work that highlight your exceptional editing skills. Bring along samples of sharp headlines, engaging copy, and well-structured articles. Be ready to discuss your editing process and how you ensure accuracy and clarity in your work.
✨Familiarise Yourself with The Observer's Style
Before the interview, take some time to read through The Observer’s sports content. Understand their tone, style, and editorial standards. This will help you align your answers with their expectations and demonstrate that you’re a good fit for their team.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle tight deadlines or manage a fast-paced newsroom environment. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated similar challenges. This will showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to thrive under pressure.
