Qualifications
Key ResponsibilitiesDeveloping and maintaining an efficient system for identifying, verifying, commissioning, and publishing breaking news throughout the day. Making critical judgments about which stories to cover and justifying those decisions. Effectively communicating significant breaking news to the National News Editor and Homepage team. Leading and nurturing a team of editors and reporters to ensure the Telegraph’s breaking news coverage is swift, accurate, and of the highest quality, including collaboration with publishers. Managing live blogs and ensuring a responsive 'listening' team is in place to monitor news sources, social media, and competitor activity. Essential SkillsExtensive experience in news editing for a national newspaper or equivalent. Exceptional news judgment and decision-making abilities. Proven ability to work under pressure and communicate effectively with colleagues at all levels. Experience in presenting to senior editors. Solid understanding of media law and IPSO guidelines. Capability to make independent decisions and communicate instructions clearly under pressure. Strong interpersonal skills to foster relationships with news editors, reporters, and publishers.
About the job
The Head of Breaking News holds a pivotal position as one of the top editors at the Telegraph's news desk. This role is crucial for leading a dedicated team of editors and reporters who are tasked with the constant monitoring, identification, verification, commissioning, and publishing of breaking news, initially focusing on domestic stories.
The aim is to ensure that our system operates seamlessly throughout the day, enabling the swift publication of stories while continuously enhancing their quality. The Head of Breaking News will collaborate closely with the National News Editor and the Homepage team to highlight the most significant emerging stories. Additionally, forming strong relationships with various departments is essential for coordinating coverage when stories overlap into different areas.
This role also involves overseeing live coverage formats such as live blogs, in close partnership with the picture desk, video desk, and graphics teams. The Head of Breaking News will be responsible for providing timely updates to senior editors and guiding junior colleagues to ensure that stories are filed and published without delay.
We are looking for an individual with a deep passion for news, who is energetic and motivating. The ability to remain calm under pressure while delivering high-quality, fast-paced news coverage is vital for this role.
About Telegraph Media Group Ltd
Telegraph Media Group Ltd is a leading news organization known for its commitment to delivering high-quality journalism and breaking news coverage. Based in London, we pride ourselves on our dedicated team and our ability to provide timely and accurate news to our audience.
