FT seeks deputy head of Lex column

The Lex column is looking for a Deputy Editor to help run the team, based in London.

This is a chance to join the close-knit, award-winning team that puts out the FT’s flagship investment column. We produce concise, informed opinion pieces on big business, markets, private investment and other financial subjects. The column is central to the FT’s premium subscription strategy.

This is a writing-editing role, with the opportunity to own and report on big sectors, producing agenda-setting commentary and distinctive analysis. As deputy editor of the team, you will also play a key role in determining what Lex covers and how, contributing to planning the daily output, editing the team’s columns, conceiving special projects or Lex in Depth ideas, and coordinating coverage from writers in four time zones.

This is a senior editorial role at the FT, with ample opportunity for advancement within the organisation. You should be comfortable taking on managerial responsibility and deputising for Head of Lex Helen Thomas at news conferences and at a range of internal and external events.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead on coverage of your specialist sectors for Lex as well as pitching in on other topics
• Produce snappy, analytical pieces on big news events and contribute to Lex in Depth pieces, newsletters and other projects
• Develop deep sector knowledge and sourcing to generate a stream of distinctive thematic ideas and corporate analysis
• Help Lex’s coverage each day, with a balance of must-read comments on breaking news, thematic pieces and distinctive analysis
• Confidently and quickly edit copy on a wide range of subjects from the Lex team
• Liaise with FT colleagues and news desks to ensure Lex columns are well promoted and read online

What we are looking for

This would suit an experienced writer of financial commentary who is ready to take the next step into an editing role, or someone already in a writer-editor role.

Editing experience, particularly of comment pieces, is desirable, as is sector expertise or reporting experience that would help you quickly carve out a niche on Lex. A high degree of numeracy and a working knowledge of financial accounting and analysis is a distinct advantage but you do not need to be a valuations expert. The column has in the past recruited both experienced business journalists, and from those with a background in financial services.

Lex offers the freedom to analyse the world through the prism of investment, tackling everything from single company woes to big cross-economy and global trends.

All Lex writers need to be able to produce quick, snappy analysis of big news stories, across a wide range of subjects. But the team also writes longer Lex in Depth pieces, takes part in FTLive events, podcasts, produces regular newsletters and contributes to other parts of the FT output.

Please submit your application by the end of the day, Monday 17th June 2024.

To apply, go here.