National security editor

The national security editor is responsible for finding and writing stories within the field of national security, and leads the Daily Telegraph’s coverage of events such as speeches by the heads of MI5 and MI6, as well as breaking news such as terror attacks.

They are required to build and maintain contacts within the field of national security, including with the security services, Home Office and relevant police departments.

They write stories for the newspaper and the Daily Telegraph website, with an understanding of how best to present stories online.

The national security editor works closely with the news editors, other news reporters and specialists, and other journalists across the newspaper.

Key responsibilities

• The national security editor is expected to bring in exclusive, agenda setting news stories. The successful candidate for this role will be expected to produce stories which lead the website and front page news articles
• They are responsible for planning for and producing stories from key events such as security conferences and speeches 
• They are expected to write accurate, clear and concise news stories in house style
• They are expected to meet tight deadlines and to organise their schedule around the deadline demands of the newsroom 
• Under pressure, they are expected to identify the best line for a potential story and relay that information to news editors clearly and concisely 
• They are responsible for ensuring stories are accurate and legally compliant 
• They are expected to have an understanding of the stories which attract readers online and that readers and subscribers to the Daily Telegraph are interested in. Through their articles, they will help the company to reach its goal of attracting and retaining more subscribers online 

Key skills

• Experience working within the newsroom of a national media organisation or equivalent is essential. A proven track record as a specialist reporter is desirable for this role. It is essential that those with a general reporting background can demonstrate an ability to find exclusive stories and develop contacts
• An ability to write clear, accurate copy is essential 
• A proven ability to develop sources and contacts is essential
• It is essential that candidates are able to process large amounts of detailed information quickly and accurately 
• It is essential to be highly organised and able to work on multiple projects simultaneously while effectively prioritising different tasks
• It is essential to be a strong verbal communicator, who is able to explain stories succinctly and clearly to editors 
• Knowledge of how best to present stories online is desirable
• Experience working with data to find news stories is desirable

Our benefits

The nature of our industry means life at the Telegraph Media Group is fast-paced, demanding, and interesting. We also want it to be rewarding for everyone who works here by creating a suite of benefits that contribute to lifestyle choices and leisure activities. From dynamic working opportunities, medical cover, and parental leave (six months fully paid maternity leave and enhanced paternity/partner leave), to life assurance and season ticket loans, you can choose from a range of flexible benefits, designed to support your lifestyle and help you achieve a healthy work-life balance.

Training and development

With support from your manager and colleagues, you will also have access to a variety of training and development opportunities through The Academy. Covering a range of personal and professional skills, our courses enable you to develop an enjoyable and rewarding career.

Our commitment to inclusion

At Telegraph Media Group, we foster a diverse and inclusive workplace and we are committed to building a team that reflects a wide variety of skills, perspectives and backgrounds. We believe in equality of opportunity and welcome candidates from all backgrounds, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio-economic background, religion and/or belief.

We are proud to be a Level 3 Disability Confident Leader as part of the government’s Disability Confident Scheme. If you are disabled or have a long-term health condition and would like support in applying for any of our roles or if you require any reasonable adjustments in the recruitment process with us, please make us aware.

To find out more about Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging at Telegraph Media Group, and for more information on our purpose, beliefs, and people values, please visit our website.