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Deputy Editor, Big Read

Financial Times
Office & Professional
Office & Professional
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Description

Location
London

Hours
Full time, with expectation to work onsite a minimum of three days per week, subject to role requirements and regular review. Flexible working requests will be considered but may not suit all editorial patterns.

Salary
Negotiable

About the Role
The role of Deputy Editor, Big Read, is one of the most exciting editing positions at the Financial Times, offering the opportunity to shape and work on a wide range of agenda-setting journalism. The Big Read is a flagship feature, addressing the issues that matter most to FT readers with authority, verve and innovation. It appears six times a week as a standalone slot on the app and homepage.

A central part of the role involves close collaboration with other desks, particularly visual storytelling and visual investigations, to produce outstanding articles. Big Reads are critical to the FT’s mission to help readers understand and communicate global developments, covering topics from Chinese exports and the rise of Revolut to Ukraine’s fightback and AI advancements.

The Deputy Editor will generate ideas for diverse feature stories aligned with FT priorities, ensuring each piece has a clear angle, notable new facts, and a compelling purpose. Commissioning also involves considering storytelling formats beyond traditional text.

Key responsibilities include rigorous, deadline-driven editing of longform pieces, working closely with writers across the organisation to ensure copy is polished, legally sound, and impactful. The Deputy Editor will lead the desk in the absence of the Big Read Editor, represent the team in news conferences and meetings, and develop and manage special projects showcasing FT journalism.

The role requires working closely with the visual storytelling team and other desks to enhance the impact of stories through creative use of graphics and visuals.

The use of AI
FT editorial staff do not by default use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to write articles or create reader-facing content. AI may be used only in specific, pre-approved cases such as assisting data research for investigations. Applicants are expected to refrain from using AI in test submissions, ensuring all written materials genuinely reflect their own knowledge, skills, and experience. AI may be used solely as a tool for research and interview preparation. The use of AI throughout the application process is monitored to ensure fairness and transparency.

Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion
The Financial Times values unique perspectives and strives to create a workplace where all voices are heard, respected, and valued. We are committed to removing barriers and supporting underrepresented groups to enable all employees to reach their full potential.

What’s in it for you?
Our benefits vary by location but include generous annual leave, medical cover, inclusive parental leave packages, subsidised gym memberships, and opportunities to contribute to the community. We are a disability confident employer and a Valuable 500 signatory, committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout the application process and employment.

Requirements

Experience
- Proven ability and flair for editing longform pieces on varied topics including tech, business, finance, science, and economics.
- Strong news instinct and capacity to identify outstanding story ideas.
- Experience working collaboratively with senior editors, writers, and cross-functional teams.
- Ability to manage special projects and lead editorial teams.

About you
- Confident in discussing and debating ideas with senior editors and writers.
- Skilled at refining story pitches and nut pars to their essentials, delivering novel and memorable content.
- Diplomatic and able to work effectively with reporters, correspondents, and editors facing multiple demands.
- Aptitude for visual storytelling and creative use of graphics.
- Able to work under tight deadlines and pressure while maintaining high editorial standards.
- Committed to nurturing and developing talent within the team.

Qualifications
- No specific qualifications stated; however, a strong editorial background and relevant experience are essential.
- Commitment to FT’s editorial standards and ethical guidelines, including responsible use of AI tools.

Expiry date: 05/10/2026
Deputy Editor, Big Read
Company:
Financial Times
Job Type:
Full-time
Location:
London