Job Description

Live Reporter - Bournemouth Echo

Application Deadline: 5 November 2026

Department: Editorial

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Bournemouth

Reporting To: Benjamin Paessler2

Description

The Bournemouth Echo is looking for a driven Live Reporter to join our fast‑paced newsroom based in the town centre.

You’ll be at the heart of our breaking news operation – reacting fast, filing clean copy at speed and helping us reach and engage a large online audience every day. The best of this content will also be developed for our newspaper.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce breaking and trending news across our website and social platforms.
• File multiple stories a day to a high standard, with sharp headlines and engaging intros.
• Run live blogs on major incidents, weather events, and traffic disruptions as required.
• Attend breaking news scenes, capture multi-media content, and conduct interviews.
• Hit ambitious digital page view and subscription targets.
• Publish and promote content across social channels, write engaging posts and monitor performance.
• Use real‑time analytics to shape coverage and spot opportunities to grow audience.
• Use AI technology to assist you in this role.
• Ensure all content complies with media law and the IPSO Editors’ Code.

This is a full‑time, office‑based role in our Bournemouth newsroom, and shift patterns will include early and late shifts across the week as well as weekend shifts.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• NCTJ-qualified or studying towards NCTJ qualifications.
• Experience in a newsroom, student publication, journalism placement or equivalent environment is desirable.
• Confident covering breaking news on the ground, including video.
• Comfortable running live blogs and developing multiple stories at once.
• Strong digital instincts – you understand what makes a story perform online and how to craft engaging headlines and social posts.
• A self‑starter with excellent news sense and plenty of ideas.
• A team player who can take direction, respond to feedback and thrive in a busy newsroom.
• Confident on camera, with the ambition to build a strong personal profile as a trusted local reporter.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submissions are encouraged. This is an entry-level role which would suit someone looking to kick-start their career in journalism.

Benefits

• 25 days holiday + bank holidays + your birthday off
• Holiday buy scheme for extra flexibility
• Structured career progression & ongoing training
• Pension plan
• Employee Helpline counselling and advice
• Perks & discounts including:
• Gym membership
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Eye care
• Retail discounts
• Team building days & annual volunteer charity day