Job Description

News Editor - Somerset

Application Deadline: 3 November 2026

Department: Editorial

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Taunton

Reporting To: Jessica Chaffey

Description

Newsquest Taunton seeks a skilled News Editor to drive the daily news operation, ensuring reporters are working on the strongest stories and delivering timely, original and engaging journalism for our audiences.

The News Editor has particular responsibility for the daily news agenda, story development and management of reporters.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the daily news agenda, ensuring reporters are focused on the strongest stories and priorities for our audiences.
• Allocate stories and manage newsroom resources to deliver a strong and consistent flow of original journalism across our titles.
• Maintain the daily newslist and forward diary, identifying opportunities from breaking news, diary events, court cases, council meetings and other developments.
• Track and develop stories throughout the day, ensuring key content is followed up, strengthened and published promptly.
• Line manage reporters, providing support, coaching, training and regular editorial feedback to help them develop and perform effectively.
• Proofread and edit copy for publication online and in print, ensuring content is accurate, clear, legally sound and meets editorial standards.
• Support reporters with interviews, investigations and complex stories, regularly discussing story ideas, angles and developments.
• Encourage effective use of digital storytelling, social media, AI and other newsroom tools.
• Work closely with the Editor and Assistant Editor on editorial priorities and campaigns, ensuring the newsroom responds quickly and effectively to breaking news.
• Write and publish stories when required, particularly during breaking news, busy periods or when additional newsroom support is needed.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Strong news judgment and the ability to identify the biggest stories for our audiences.
• Experience managing reporters and supporting their development through coaching and feedback.
• Excellent editing and proofreading skills, with a strong understanding of editorial standards and media law.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced newsroom environment.
• Strong organisational skills and experience of planning and managing a forward news diary.
• Confident using digital storytelling techniques, social media, AI and newsroom tools.
• NCTJ qualification, or equivalent journalism qualification and experience.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

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