Full-time, permanent role – Monday to Friday
Where do I work?
The Observer newsroom, London (22 Berners Street) plus some flexibility to work remotely 1 day per week.
What are we for?
The Observer’s promise is in the name. The Observer bears witness; the best of journalism being curious minds at work. It loves the arts and ideas, both for their own sake and because they can change lives. It’s proudly progressive, but has no party allegiance. It’s open to different arguments and its editorial independence is non-negotiable. We are building a new Observer across print, audio and digital. We’re here to build journalism that lasts.
Related articles:
The New Review is the cultural heart of the Observer, in print and digital. Our Books and Arts coverage, a mix of sharp reviews, elegant essays and urgent features and interviews aims to offer the most engaging and thought-provoking insight into those worlds each week. We are looking for a deputy to our Books and Arts Editors who can edit and write reviews and features, contribute ideas across the whole New Review section and its digital and audio expression and be involved with all aspects of the production and administration of our coverage.
Key responsibilities include:
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Close engagement with the culture editors on the commissioning and production of our coverage in print and online.
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Deputising for the books and arts editors in their absence.
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Contributing ideas for stories across the section and online.
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Developing and creating relationships with contributors and publishers and agents.
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Writing reviews, comment pieces and features, and interviewing writers and cultural figures/Identifying books for extract in the feature pages and helping to shape extracts for publication.
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Working with the culture editors to plan and schedule coverage of key releases throughout the year, oversee contributors, and manage deadlines.
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Helping to manage special projects across print and digital, and co-ordinating with other departments within the Observer.
Key skills & experience include:
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At least 2 years experience in writing for a national publication.
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Ability to commission and edit copy from a range of writers to tight deadlines.
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Excellent planning, organisational and communication skills, and knowledge of social media.
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Flexible and erudite thinker with a demonstrable love of literature, arts and broader culture in all its forms.
Salary and Benefits
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Competitive salary
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30 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays
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Private healthcare
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Group Life Assurance
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Pension
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Cycle to work scheme
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Interest-free season ticket loans
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Free snacks and drinks in the newsroom
Working with us
We are a progressive business with a diverse, motivated team; a mix of veterans and young people starting out on their careers. We are committed to equal opportunities and creating an inclusive environment for all our employees, and we welcome applicants regardless of ethnic origin, national origin, gender, race, colour, religious beliefs, disability, sexual orientation or age.
To apply please send a letter and a PDF of your CV to recruitment@observer.co.uk. You should include the name of the job that you are applying for in the email subject line.
Deadline to apply: 24 December 2025