The London Standard is a 200‑year‑old title that is globally renowned and a trusted guide to life in the greatest city on earth. As an essential voice for Londoners, our journalism represents the city and its diverse residents at every level. In 2026, Independent Media completed its landmark long‑term partnership to manage The Standard’s digital journalism, ad tech, and commercial platforms. The integration expanded Independent Media’s portfolio of premium brands in the UK, alongside The Independent, Bulletin, and the BuzzFeed UK network, strengthening its position as a global media leader and expanding its collective reach to more than 500 million users worldwide.
The role
The Ents & Life Reporter captures the pulse of London’s social, cultural, and celebrity scenes. By combining a London‑first mindset with fast‑paced reporting, this versatile journalist identifies stories that spark conversation across the capital. From breaking news and red carpet reporting to uncovering the city's next big lifestyle trends, this reporter ensures the Standard is central to London life.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- We champion diversity in our teams and in our reporting. As a growing and global brand, we must have a workforce that’s more representative of our readers, viewers, clients and partners, and a workplace that creates a sense of belonging for everyone
- We are committed to hiring and developing a diverse workforce regardless of background, and we support our people to thrive in their careers here.
The Independent is an equal opportunities employer, if you require any reasonable adjustments to complete your application, please do not hesitate to advise us accordingly.
Key responsibilities and accountabilities
- Reports on the intersection of London showbiz, culture, and lifestyle. Can switch between breaking celebrity news, live blogs, and lifestyle trends. Uncovers scoops, exclusive diary gossip, and emerging cultural trends that get the capital talking.
- Collaborates with the audience team to identify trending lifestyle topics and viral social moments.
- Monitors the social calendars of London influencers and institutions. Comfortable covering red carpets and special events by working flexible shifts, including evenings and weekends.
- Upholds the Standard’s brand voice and house style while ensuring all copy is legally sound and compliant.
- Reports to the Sr Publishing Hub Editor
Essential skills and experience
- Experience reporting on entertainment or lifestyle in a fast‑paced digital newsroom or high‑volume magazine.
- Sharp eye for a story with a track record of sourcing original gossip, scoops, and trend‑led features.
- Strong understanding of SEO best practices and social media optimisation.
- Excellent writing skills with the ability to produce witty, engaging copy that adheres to legal and ethical guidelines.
- Connected to London’s cultural landscape, with a firm grasp of the celebrities, venues, and trends that matter to Londoners.
Our values – you will deliver across all our values
Inclusive: We champion diversity in our teams and in our reporting. Working as a team, we put transparency and effective communication at the heart of everything we do.
Innovative: From the very beginning, The Independent has been breaking the mould. We take risks and are always looking to try new ideas in pursuit of excellence.
Independent: Nobody tells us what to think; we make up our own minds and aren’t afraid to do things differently. Like our readers, we value honesty and integrity above outside influences.
