Real Life Features Writer/Story Finder (2 month fixed term contract)

We are looking for an amazing story-finder, who is brimming with original ideas and has a proven track-record in landing exclusive stories spectacular enough to sell to the national media, to join PA Real Life as a Feature Writer/Story Finder. This will be a two month contract to cover one of our team members taking a well-deserved sabbatical from mid-February to mid-April 2020.

An ambitious and experienced journalist, the successful applicant will be keen to be part of the Real Life Features team at Press Association, the UK’s largest and most respected news agency. You will need to know exactly how to source a brilliant real-life story, that will drive traffic online and sparkle in a newspaper, magazine or on TV.

At PA Real Life, we never stand still and the person we are looking for – who will be expected to have NCTJ or an equivalent qualification – will need the confidence and drive to land the very best, legally-sound real life exclusives, persuading people to tell their extraordinary stories to you.

As a Feature Writer/Story Finder for PA Real Life, you will be expected to bring in at least three exclusive online stories each week, some of which will need accompanying video. You will also generate a stream of outstanding exclusive stories for national print publications and TV.

You will need to know exactly how to use everything from conventional contacts to social media to land bestselling stories, ranging from love rats, to families affected by crime, betrayal, or extreme health conditions.

We are looking for a talented journalist, with a sound knowledge of media law, who can find and chase stories, persuade people to talk solely to PA, pitch to the national media, then interview and write articles for individual publications and websites to tight deadlines.

You will already have strong experience through working at a smaller news agency, local newspaper, real life magazine or an equivalent role in the media, as this is not job for a novice.

We are looking for someone who will thrive in this fast-paced environment, where every day is exciting!

To apply, please send your CV and covering letter to Fran Bowden, Editor, Real Life Features

Email: Fran.Bowden@pa.media

Closing date: 3 January 2020

We will be considering candidates as they apply, so please don’t delay in submitting your application.

The Company encourages applications from all sectors of the community.