Job Title: Assistant News Editor, Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life

Location: Belfast Telegraph House, Clarendon Dock

Contract: Full Time, Permanent

Role Purpose

The Assistant News Editor reports to the News Editor and Deputy News Editor under the overall direction of the Head of Content. Working to a seven-day roster to serve the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life as necessary, the role holder is responsible for assisting the News Editor in directing the newsroom resources towards the news of the day, ensuring our titles have the most competitive and compelling coverage.

The Assistant News Editor takes a lead role in the management of news (premium and fast) with a focus on digital-first publication. They will ensure verification, legal checking and editing of breaking news articles and video for our digital platforms. They will also be responsible for publishing stories online and overseeing video content as required in collaboration with the Lead Journalist Creator and Visuals department.

The Assistant News Editor is also responsible for careful forward planning to prepare for known upcoming events, and the development of unique, exclusive news and news packages.

Role Responsibilities (Overview)

• Guiding and briefing general news and specialist reporters, photographers and video journalists in the newsroom towards required work

• Commissioning external freelance writers, photographers and videographers where necessary

• Attending and/or running news conferences to develop ideas and news coverage

• Creating and updating news lists for respective titles, as allocated by the News Editor or other senior personnel

• Working to ensure all major news is broken on our digital platforms

• Working collaboratively on the News Desk and with other senior members of the newsroom in digital and in print

• Deputise for the Sunday Life news manager when they are on leave for digital and print

• Copy and video editing where necessary

• Drawing up rosters where necessary

• Assisting the News Editors as required across all aspects of their job – including taking the lead on the newsdesk if required

• Reporting on events/breaking news if required.

• Carry out your duties at all times in accordance with relevant professional and legal code

Experience & Qualifications

• At least 3 years’ journalistic experience

• News reporting and editing experience is essential

• Experience working on a news desk would be beneficial

• Good understanding of digital media

• Team leadership experience would be an advantage

Skills

• Journalism & bndigital skills: Experienced in written and digital journalism, copy editing and CMS platforms, with strong use of social media and digital tools to source and promote stories.

• Leadership & collaboration: Skilled at leading teams, working with writers to develop strong stories and supporting collaboration and people development.

• Organisation & editorial judgement: Highly organised with strong news judgement, able to manage a wide mix of stories, generate original ideas and meet tight deadlines.

• Professional strengths: Detail-oriented, adaptable and self-motivated, with strong ethical standards, knowledge of libel law and a passion for high-quality journalism.

Benefits

From supportive working options and wellbeing initiatives, to learning opportunities and career growth, Mediahuis is a place where you can do meaningful work and thrive. These are just a few of the benefits our team members receive:

• 35 days annual leave (including bank holidays)

• Company Pension Contribution

• Bike to Work Scheme

• Free Parking

• Income Protection

• Health & Wellness events

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Enhanced Maternity & Paternity Leave

• Hybrid working schedule

• Life Assurance

• Educational Assistance