DESIblitz.com, the UK's leading British South Asian lifestyle publication, is looking for an enthusiastic and talented Features & News Editor to strengthen our editorial team.
This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious journalist and content creator who enjoys researching stories, writing engaging features, identifying newsworthy content and developing editorial ideas for a leading digital publication.
You will take ownership of key editorial categories, producing high quality feature articles and daily news stories that engage British South Asian audiences in the UK and across the global diaspora.
Alongside excellent writing and editorial judgement, you will have an interest in emerging digital technologies. An awareness of AI tools and how they can responsibly support research, productivity and editorial workflows is desirable, although full training will be provided.
This is a fast paced role suited to someone with a proactive attitude, who thrives in an online publishing environment and enjoys taking ownership of their work, as well as being a confident team player.
About the Role
As a Features & News Editor, you will:
- Take editorial ownership of assigned publication categories.
- Research, write and publish engaging feature articles each week.
- Source, write and publish timely daily news stories covering UK, South Asian and international topics relevant to our audience.
- Identify trending stories and emerging topics using trusted news sources, social media and audience insight.
- Produce original journalism through research, interviews and investigative approaches where appropriate using video and audio formats.
- Ensure all published content meets DESIblitz editorial standards, house style and UK English grammar.
- Proofread and edit content to maintain the highest editorial quality.
- Develop compelling headlines, introductions and imagery that maximise readership.
- Help mentor and support feature writers on our editorial development programme.
- Work closely with the Senior Editor to develop editorial strategy and audience growth.
- Promote published content across social media channels using engaging promotional posts.
- Analyse content performance and use audience data to improve future editorial output.
- Represent DESIblitz where appropriate through interviews, videos, events or other editorial activities.
Digital & AI Skills
We actively embrace responsible use of AI to improve productivity, research and editorial workflows.
While AI never replaces editorial judgement or original journalism, candidates should have an interest in learning how AI can support content creation and digital publishing.
Desirable experience includes:
- Awareness of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude or Microsoft Copilot.
- Using AI responsibly to assist with research, planning, idea generation and workflow efficiency.
- Understanding the importance of fact checking, verification and maintaining editorial integrity when using AI.
- An interest in emerging AI developments within journalism and digital publishing.
Even if you do not have any of the above AI skills, training will be provided to help you develop these skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Produce high quality weekly feature articles across 5 assigned editorial categories via flexible deadlines within agreed turnaround times
- Source, verify and publish min. 3-5 daily news stories throughout the week via flexible deadlines within agreed turnaround times
- Identify exclusive stories and editorial opportunities relevant to British South Asian audiences.
- Maintain high standards of factual accuracy, impartiality and source verification.
- Write engaging headlines and introductions that maximise reader engagement.
- Produce and optimise article images using appropriate editing tools.
- Use WordPress or our content management system to publish content.
- Create promotional assets using Canva, Adobe Express or similar platforms.
- Utilise analytics to improve editorial performance and audience engagement.
- Contribute ideas that help grow readership and expand editorial reach.
- Attend weekly editorial meetings and contribute to planning discussions.
- Work collaboratively within a busy editorial team while managing deadlines effectively.
- Understand and comply with the UK Editors' Code of Practice, copyright law and digital publishing standards.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Excellent written UK English with exceptional grammar and proofreading skills.
- Strong research, writing and editorial abilities.
- Ability to produce engaging long form feature articles and accurate news stories.
- Excellent news judgement and the ability to identify stories that will interest our audience.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently while managing multiple deadlines.
- Experience using WordPress or another CMS.
- Basic image editing skills using Photoshop or similar software.
- Experience using Canva, Adobe Express or equivalent creative tools.
- Good understanding of major social media platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, X and YouTube.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- A proactive attitude with a willingness to learn and develop.
Desirable
- Previous experience within online journalism or digital publishing.
- Experience managing editorial categories or making publishing decisions.
- Understanding of SEO, AEO, AGO and digital content optimisation.
- Knowledge of audience analytics tools such as Google Analytics.
- Awareness or practical use of AI tools within editorial or digital content workflows.
- Degree in Journalism, Media, English, Communications or a related discipline.
Location
While the job offers flexible and remote working. You will be required to attend the Birmingham office for an in-person meeting at least once per week.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for someone who is naturally curious, enjoys finding stories before others do and has a genuine passion for journalism, digital publishing and British South Asian culture.
You'll be motivated to continually improve your writing, embrace new technologies and contribute ideas that help DESIblitz grow its audience and editorial reputation.
If you want to develop your career with one of the UK's leading independent online lifestyle publications, we'd love to hear from you.
How to Apply
Please send:
- Your latest CV.
- A covering letter (maximum 300 words) explaining why you are the right candidate.
- Links to five examples of your published work.
DESIblitz.com is published by Aidem Digital CIC, an award winning social enterprise. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and communities.
Job Type: Freelance
Pay: £80.00 per day
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Employee mentoring programme
- Flexitime
- Work from home
Experience:
- Writing or Journalism: 3 years (required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Birmingham B3 3HN
