Job Title: Political Correspondent
Function: News
Department: Editorial
Reporting to: Political Editor
Location: Hybrid with frequent on-site presence needed in Leinster House, Office located on Talbot Street, Dublin 1
Role Purpose
The Political Correspondent will be a key member of the Irish Independent political team. They will work closely with the Political Editor to provide quality political coverage across our titles. In particular their focus will be on original journalism for the Irish Independent and Sunday Independent. Candidates should have a proven track record in producing high-quality journalism. They should be motivated to break unique stories and capable of covering both breaking news and working off-diary. The role requires the correspondent to have an extensive contact book. The successful candidate will have an in-depth knowledge of the Irish political scene and be able to explain it to readers in an accessible and interesting way. They will regularly contribute video/audio content and devise new, innovative ways of improving our video offering.
Role Responsibilities (Overview)
Create and write up-to-date, accurate, balanced and engaging multimedia political content for Mediahuis Ireland publications. In particular the candidate will ensure the Irish Independent has exclusive political coverage and insights.
React quickly, accurately and professionally to breaking news, keeping stories updated across digital and social platforms.
Work with the wider politics team and liaise with the news desk and editors in providing coverage. * Consistently break major political/news stories and write agenda-setting analysis. * Contribute to the Irish Independent’s audio and video output. * Write SEO-friendly headlines where necessary.
Carry out your duties at all times in accordance with Mediahuis’ Editorial Code of Practice and relevant professional and legal codes.
Experience & Qualifications (Minimum Experience & Essential Knowledge)
Proven experience as a reporter in politics or a similar area, with demonstrated ability to break news and write agenda-setting commentary.
An outstanding grasp of Irish and global politics
Experience working in a digital-first environment.
Skills (technical & non-technical)
Technical & Non-Technical
Written / Digital journalism
Copy editing
Ability in Audio/Video
Broad general knowledge and understanding of the news agenda across news, politics business, entertainment and sport
News judgement
Managing a wide and varied mix of stories
Use social media and other digital tools to source news information and to promote our journalism
Team player - working with other journalists and editors to manage situations.
Meet rolling deadlines
Organisation – ability to plan towards deadlines
Excellent knowledge of libel law
Ability to represent the titles in a positive manner on broadcast media and at external events as necessary
Other
Passion for journalism
Creative Flair
Ability to work at speed and under pressure
Ability to Conceptualise
Self-starting and shows initiative
Accuracy, fairness, balance, commitment to ethics
Flexibility / willingness to adapt
Detail Oriented
Effective Collaboration
Learning Agility
