At a Glance
- Tasks: Write and edit engaging news content while managing publishing and social media strategies.
- Company: Join The Sentinel, part of Reach, the UK's largest commercial news publisher.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, extra leave for volunteering, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, inclusive culture, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in journalism while working from home and growing your career.
- Qualifications: NCTJ/NQJ qualified journalist with digital news experience and strong storytelling skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Content Editor to join our dynamic news team at The Sentinel. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced writer and editor looking for a new challenge or a senior reporter, hungry to take the next step in their journalism career. You will play a key role in our strategy to continue to grow our audience, deepen our relationship with existing readers and reach our underserved communities. This is predominantly a writing role, where you will write and edit daily news stories that keep the people of Stoke-on-Trent informed. This role is home based, so we are open to candidates based anywhere in the UK (though being close to Stoke-on-Trent is desirable). This is a maternity cover, fixed term contract role, initially for 12 months.
As a modern media organisation, we're much more than just news. And it takes a wide range of people and skills to serve diverse audiences, customers and communities like we do. We know everyone has their own story to tell, so we’ve built an environment where every background is respected and every day is a day to explore. We’ll help you build a career that works with your life, while giving you the space to create and grow.
What will the role involve?
- Utilising the research and data collected by reporters in the team, you will write and edit engaging news content, including articles, pictures and video.
- You will organise and manage the publishing of fresh, accurate and legally-sound news content.
- Live coverage is a vital part of our newsrooms, so you will use your excellent news sense to know when to launch live blogs for big stories and how to maintain momentum as readers flock to our sites.
- You will step up and deputise as needed, supporting and inspiring your team of reporters to pitch, research and write stories of their own.
- You will oversee our websites and social media channels, helping to develop our social strategy.
- This role will involve working shifts on a rota basis including some evenings and weekends so a flexible approach is required.
Who are we looking for?
- You are an experienced NCTJ/NQJ qualified (or equivalent time served) journalist with extensive UK media law knowledge.
- You have a proven track record of writing and editing digital news content in a fast-paced newsroom environment.
- You are a first class writer and storyteller with a thorough understanding of our news brands and audience engagement strategies.
- You have a good understanding of SEO, search, social and digital audience behaviour.
- You are social media savvy and have experience utilising various social platforms including but not limited to Facebook, X and Instagram.
- Ideally you have prior people management experience, or you are keen to step up into a management role, utilising your communication, motivation and people skills to do so.
- You have a good working knowledge of your patch and can use this to inform your content decisions.
How we'll look after you
- 25 days' holiday (plus bank holidays), as well as an extra day after you've been with us for three, five and 10 years.
- An 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 - like getting married, moving house or welcoming a new addition to the family (human or furry!).
- 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’re proud to 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.
- 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.
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.
Content Editor - The Sentinel (Maternity Cover) in Stoke-on-Trent employer: The Sentinel Stoke on Trent
At Reach, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values diversity and fosters a supportive work culture. As a Content Editor, you'll enjoy flexible working arrangements from home, competitive benefits including generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for personal and professional growth within a dynamic news environment. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve while enjoying a range of perks designed to enhance your work-life balance.
Contact Details:
The Sentinel Stoke on Trent Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Content Editor - The Sentinel (Maternity Cover) in Stoke-on-Trent
✨Get Your Foot in the Door
Temporary roles often pop up when companies need extra hands for specific projects, so keep an eye on local job boards and news websites. Don’t hesitate to check out industry-specific platforms like Journalism.co.uk or local community groups for short-term gigs.
✨Network Like a Pro
Attend journalism and media events in your area, such as press launches or panel discussions. These are golden opportunities to meet industry insiders who might have the scoop on temporary openings. Plus, connecting with your peers can lead to unexpected recommendations.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a portfolio that showcases your best work, even if it’s just student projects or freelance articles. For journalism, a strong online presence is key, so make sure to share your pieces on platforms like Medium or your own blog to attract potential employers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Site
We often have temporary positions available at The Sentinel Stoke on Trent. Keep an eye on our careers page and apply directly – you're one step closer to landing that opportunity. Tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences that make you a standout candidate!
We think you need these skills to ace Content Editor - The Sentinel (Maternity Cover) in Stoke-on-Trent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Writing Style:When applying for a temporary role in journalism-media, it's crucial to exhibit your unique writing voice. Attach samples of your work that showcase not just your ability to report, but also to engage readers. A link to your online portfolio can really help us see your style and versatility!
Tailor Your CV to Highlight Relevant Experience:In the world of journalism-media, it’s all about storytelling and your CV should reflect that! Focus on any journalism-related internships, freelance articles, or relevant coursework. Make sure to include specific achievements, like publications or recognitions, that make you stand out.
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:For a temporary position, we want to know what excites you about journalism and why this role at The Sentinel Stoke on Trent matters to you. Share your motivation for applying and what you hope to learn during your time with us. Let your passion for the media shine through!
Stay Current with Industry Trends:Show us that you’ve got your finger on the pulse of journalism-media trends. Reference recent developments or challenges in the industry in your application to demonstrate your enthusiasm and awareness. This can set you apart from other candidates who may not be as in-the-know!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Sentinel Stoke on Trent
✨Showcase Your Versatility
In the world of journalism, adaptability is key. Be prepared to discuss various topics you've covered, whether it's breaking news, features, or investigative pieces. Bring along a portfolio that shows your range—think articles, videos, or even social media content you've created. This will demonstrate your ability to tackle different formats and subjects under pressure!
✨Nail That Story Pitch
As a temporary journalist, you'll need to hit the ground running. Before your interview with The Sentinel Stoke on Trent, think about a compelling story idea you could pitch them. Tailor it to their audience and showcase your unique angle—this will show you're proactive and understand their publication's style, which is gold in fast-paced media environments.
✨Know Your Tools
Familiarise yourself with the tools journalists use—whether that’s content management systems, Adobe Suite, or video editing software. During the interview, highlight your proficiency with these tools. A temporary role at The Sentinel Stoke on Trent might require you to jump into production quickly, and showing you're tech-savvy can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Quick Adaptation
In temporary roles, your ability to adapt and learn quickly is crucial. Be ready to discuss a time when you had to adjust your writing or reporting style to fit a new audience or medium. This will show The Sentinel Stoke on Trent that you can thrive in dynamic situations and won't just be another warm body—but a valuable team member right from day one.
