Are you interested in exposing obstacles to action on climate change? DeSmog is an award-winning investigative journalism outlet providing accurate, public-interest reporting that scrutinises the forces behind climate policy opposition and misinformation.

We are looking for a Deputy Editor to oversee the day-to-day operations of our small but fast-growing and ambitious newsroom.

You are an analytical thinker with a background in investigations. A strong writer, you’re also well organised and an adept multi-tasker: able to meticulously fact-check, turn out punchy headlines and lend your hand to research and reporting when needed. Passionate about climate action and high-impact reporting, you are committed to creating a diverse and open working culture.

You will be joining DeSmog at an exciting time as we expand our reporting and scope. The Deputy Editor reports to the UK Editor and will also work closely with DeSmog’s global editorial staff.

About Us

DeSmog is the UK’s leading investigative journalism outlet dedicated to original research and coverage of climate science denial and lobbying against climate action.

We publish regularly in partnership with mainstream media outlets including The Guardian, Independent,Channel 4 and the Financial Times. Our work is targeted and high-impact, used by MPs in parliament, at congressional hearings in the US Senate, by law firms and climate campaigners in the UK and across the world.

Our databases, which track greenwash, hypocrisy, and the influence of vested interests on climate policy are a go-to resource for journalists, campaigners, academics and policy-makers.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Developing and co-leading the UK team’s news reporting agenda (generating story ideas, vetting pitches, writing and sub-editing copy)
• Commissioning and managing freelance writers, researchers and illustrators
• Building relationships with, and pitching articles to, mainstream media partners
• Uploading content, sourcing images and promoting DeSmog’s work on social media
• Overseeing the smooth functioning of the UK section of DeSmog’s website and online communications (with support from the technical team)
• Overseeing researchers and editing entries in DeSmog’s public databases (Climate Disinformation, Agribusiness etc)
• Line-managing UK staff (researchers or reporters), as agreed with UK Editor
• Leading and developing long-term investigative research projects
• Representing DeSmog at events and in the media
• Assisting the UK Editor with fundraising
• Championing an open and diverse team culture
• Undertaking other ad-hoc research, reporting, admin and editorial tasks to advance DeSmog’s mission

Role Requirements

Essential

• At least two years’ experience in an editorial role, in journalism, research or campaigns
• Experience designing, overseeing and publishing investigations
• A strong news sense and top-notch contact book
• Excellent subbing skills, including writing headlines and standfirsts
• Proven organisational skills, ability to set priorities and manage multiple tasks to deadline
• Proven knowledge of climate and environmental issues
• Comfortable interacting and collaborating with a wide range of organisations, including civil society organisations and think-tanks
• Ability to pay close attention to detail
• Ability to write engaging social media copy
• Experience of managing staff or volunteers
• Proactive attitude and a willingness to learn new skills
• Good interpersonal skills and an excellent team-player
• Ability to work well independently
• An enthusiasm for and commitment to DeSmog’s core values and mission: to expose lobbying and spin that undermines action on climate change

Desirable

• Undergraduate or Master’s degree in an environment-related subject
• Journalism qualification
• Experience of successfully submitting freedom of information requests
• Experience covering Westminster politics
• Familiarity with UK media law
• Online research skills, including advanced Google Search methods
• Basic data analysis skills, including in Excel
• Working knowledge of HTML and/or WordPress

Application Process

We will be reviewing applications and calling candidates for interviews on a rolling basis. Please apply immediately if you are interested; deadline 23 December.

DeSmog strongly values diversity. We welcome applications from people from all different backgrounds and particularly encourage those who identify with groups that are underrepresented in media (e.g. women, people from working class, Black, Asian and minority ethnic, or LGBTQ+ communities, or who live with a disability).

To apply for the role, please email ukjobs@desmog.com with your CV and a cover letter(maximum two pages) explaining how you meet the requirements and what you would bring to the role and the team.

Please also let us know when you can start, and how you heard about the role. So, please mention Journo Resources when you apply, it really helps us out.

We’ll review your application when we receive it, and move forward with a pace to make an appointment as soon as possible.

Candidates who are a good fit for the role will be asked to complete an editing task and to interview with DeSmog’s UK Editor, Hazel Healy, and other members of the DeSmog team.

If you have any questions about the role, or your fit for the role, please reach out to ukjobs@desmog.com for a chat.