At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and publish engaging content across The Observer’s social media channels.
- Company: Join a progressive journalism team dedicated to impactful storytelling.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, private healthcare, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of journalism in digital spaces.
- Qualifications: Experience in social media management and strong design skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Full‑time role (5 days a week) including frequent weekend working. 4 days in the office and the opportunity to work one day a week remotely.
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.
We are looking for a Social Media Executive who will be responsible for the day‑to‑day management and publishing across The Observer’s social media channels. You will help translate editorial content into platform‑native formats, actively grow audience engagement, and ensure the publication’s journalism reaches both existing and new communities across a range of digital spaces.
Key responsibilities- Support the scheduling, planning, and publishing of content across text‑based platforms and social channels, ensuring timely and accurate distribution of content.
- Engage directly with audiences by responding to comments and messages, and fostering constructive online discussions.
- Conduct outreach to external communities, groups, and organisations to expand the reach and impact of The Observer’s journalism.
- Share relevant stories within engaged online communities, including platforms such as Reddit and other forums, in a thoughtful and appropriate manner.
- Design social‑first visual assets for Instagram and other image‑led platforms across multiple accounts.
- Work collaboratively with editorial and digital teams to ensure alignment between newsroom priorities and social distribution strategies.
- Experience managing social media accounts in a newsroom, media organisation or fast‑paced digital environment.
- Strong understanding of platform‑specific best practices (Instagram, X, Facebook, Reddit, Bluesky, TikTok, and LinkedIn).
- Proficiency with design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, or similar to create social‑first visual assets.
- Excellent written communication skills and editorial judgement.
- Confidence engaging with online communities in a respectful, brand‑aligned voice.
- Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines in a live publishing environment.
- Familiarity with analytics tools and performance metrics for social media content.
- Audience‑focused with a strong interest in digital storytelling.
- Collaborative and comfortable working across editorial and design teams.
- Proactive, adaptable, and able to respond well in a fast‑paced environment.
- 30 days holiday + bank holidays.
- Private healthcare.
- Group income protection & life assurance.
- Pension.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Interest‑free season ticket loan.
- Free snacks and drinks in the newsroom.
- Hybrid working (London newsroom + 1 day remote flexibility).
Social Media Executive employer: The Observer UK
The Observer is an exceptional employer that champions a progressive work culture, offering a dynamic environment for creativity and collaboration. With a commitment to employee growth, we provide comprehensive benefits including 30 days of holiday, private healthcare, and a hybrid working model that allows for flexibility. Join us in our mission to build impactful journalism across various platforms while enjoying the perks of working in a vibrant London newsroom.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Media Executive
✨Tip Number 1
Get your social media game on point! Before applying, make sure your own profiles reflect the skills and style that The Observer is looking for. Show off your creativity and engagement skills by sharing relevant content and interacting with followers.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees of The Observer on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have. This can give you insider knowledge and potentially a referral!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by knowing The Observer’s recent stories and social media strategies. Be ready to discuss how you would enhance their online presence and engage with audiences. Show them you’re not just a fan, but a strategic thinker!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and ready to dive into the world of journalism with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Social Media Executive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Journalism:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for journalism shine through. We want to see how curious you are about the world and how you can contribute to The Observer's mission of impactful storytelling.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your experience managing social media in a fast-paced environment. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your understanding of platform-specific best practices and how you've engaged audiences effectively.
Be Creative with Your Application:Since this role involves designing social-first visual assets, don’t hesitate to showcase your creativity. If you have a portfolio or examples of your work, include them! We love seeing how you can bring editorial content to life visually.
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 don’t miss any important updates from our team. Let’s get started on building the future of journalism together!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Observer UK
✨Know Your Platforms
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specific social media platforms mentioned in the job description. Research their best practices and think about how you can apply them to The Observer’s content. Be ready to discuss examples of successful campaigns or posts you've managed on these platforms.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
Since the role involves designing social-first visual assets, come prepared with a portfolio that highlights your design skills. Bring examples of your work using tools like Adobe Creative Suite, and be ready to explain your creative process and how it aligns with engaging audiences.
✨Engagement is Key
Demonstrate your understanding of audience engagement by discussing strategies you’ve used in the past. Think about how you can foster constructive discussions and respond to comments effectively. Prepare to share specific instances where you successfully engaged with an online community.
✨Be Organised and Adaptable
This role requires managing multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment, so highlight your organisational skills. Share examples of how you’ve juggled various tasks or projects simultaneously, and be ready to discuss how you adapt to changing priorities while maintaining quality.
