Assistant Editor, Newsnight

We’re looking for a smart and talented journalist to join Newsnight’s senior editorial team.

Job Introduction

The flagship programme’s refresh has led to a 30% increase in our audiences. Coming at the end of a crowded news schedule, Newsnight aims to tackle the big stories of the day with fresh insights and news-making interviews, and to provide smart takes on the news.

We’re the BBC’s big news personality show and our interviews are picked up by the rest of the BBC. Newsnight has been broadcasting to millions of viewers for almost half a century now, having celebrated our 45th birthday in January.

Our past interviewees include our infamous interview with Prince Andrew. Other guests include Elon Musk, Hillary Clinton, Aung San Suu Kyi, Madonna, Bill Gates, Greta Thunberg, Benjamin Netanyahu, Dalai Lama and David Attenborough.

Main Responsibilities

Our Assistant Editors are key senior staff on the programme, running the daily output and sometimes taking charge of longer term coverage and specials. The Assistant Editor will support the Editor and Deputy Editor on Newsnight in driving the strategy, journalism and culture of Newsnight.

Duties include:

Output editing by driving the news agenda of the day - to originate and develop lively and engaging programmes which reflect significant events, as well as key issues and trends in the news.
Plan and produce special news making output
Co-ordinating the booking of stand-out, news making guests, driving the editorial focus, providing direction to producers and liaise with presenters
As Assistant Editor, contribute to the programme strategy to help Newsnight stand out and make impact in an increasingly crowded market
Work with the Deputy Editor and Editor on finessing an evolving work flow for a fresh format
Line manage producers and ensure that we give constructive feedback and create the best work culture in BBC News
Monitor and ensure the quality of output, ensuring that journalistic standards are maintained
Help drive Newsnight’s digital output, working with the digital team to produce innovate and bespoke online content
Ensure safe working practices and the observance of News Division’s health and safety policies
On occasions, deputise for the Deputy and Editor by complying output.

Are you the right candidate?

Candidates should have the following:

In depth knowledge of UK news particularly politics. An ability to apply that knowledge to news and current affairs journalism of the highest quality and complexity
In depth knowledge of international affairs and an ability to analyse developments
Strong TV-making skills desirable, alongside the imagination to ensure that Newsnight’s output remains visually innovative and original
Ideas and initiative to contribute to planning and the development of Newsnight’s output
A proven track record of commissioning and creating content which cuts through across all platforms
Editorial awareness and judgement which reflects BBC and BBC News editorial policy
Willingness and enthusiasm to embrace new ways of working, new technology, and promote this to staff
Ability to make major decisions with authority and under pressure
Ability to lead and motivate a team of journalists and to develop their skills
Ability to assess resource requirements and work to budget assist in the management of programme budgets
Ability to help to implement the programme’s digital strategy and take Newsnight’s journalism to new audiences.
Experience of working with high profile presenters.

Package Information

Salary: Up to £65,000 (+ London Weighting) depending on relevant skills, knowledge and experience. The expected salary range for this role reflects internal benchmarking and external market insights
Contract type: Permanent
Location: London Broadcasting House, W1A.

Please CLICK HERE to see this role on our own website, and apply.

Closing date: 23rd February 2025.