Shreveport Times seeks business reporter

The Times, an award-winning member of the USA Today Network, seeks an energetic and inquisitive reporter to own coverage of economic conditions, new businesses, drivers, startups and quality of life factors in northwest Louisiana.

If it impacts growth and development, this reporter owns it. This enterprising reporter will experiment with alternative storytelling—including video and short form writing for mobile and social platforms—and will ferret out stories and characters that resonate with readers and engage new and existing digital audiences.

About the area:
Shreveport’s largest industries and employers include Barksdale Air Force Base, Willis Knighton hospitals, LSU Health medical school, casinos and tourism, government and education and oil and gas. A state-of-the-art Benteler Steel factory is opening.

We are home to several craft breweries and an Oscar-winning animation studio, and we’re considered a great place for entrepreneurs. A major move by YMCA promises a great impact on quality of life. Cyber Innovation Center and a software developer have created more than 700 jobs, many related to military contracts for cyber security.

It’s an ideal opportunity for someone who loves to explore everything from how the impact of opening a Whole Foods will affect local foodie culture to the impact of major industry shifts on the community’s quality of life.

In this role, you will:

• Write quick-response news of openings, closings and new business developments
• Write investigative and enterprise reports of shifting economic conditions and quality of life issues
• Connect and interact with readers and influential leaders in person and through social media
• Act as a ambassador for The Times through community events

Here’s what you need:

• Bachelor’s in Communications, Journalism or equivalent in experience and education
• 1-2 years of experience in daily journalism
• The ability to write quickly and accurately on deadline for all platforms
• Experience shooting and editing simple video using a smartphone
• Advanced social media skills and familiarity with building a following of your individual brand
• Self-motivation and self-direction
• Willingness to collaborate with peers and editors in a cross-functional environment
• Strong time management and organization skills
• Commitment to excellence