Job Title:Reporter (Farming & Rural Affairs) – Part Time 3 days per weekDepartment:EditorialFunction:PublishingReporting to:Farming EditorRole PurposeWe are seeking to hire a Reporter for the farming section of the Irish Independent on a specific purpose contract to cover for maternity leave. The Reporter will be responsible for providing exclusive, quality farming journalism. The ideal candidate will have a track record in news, with strong contacts in the agri-food sector and will also be an excellent writer who can analyse stories and write news features as required. The role demands an ability to call a story, identify underlying themes and to explain complex developments crisply and accessibly for both an online and print audience. A solid understanding of the agri-food/farming sector is important.Role Responsibilities (Overview)To break stories and be a champion for original journalismTo be able to write analysis articles on complex issues in a concise and informative wayCovering the breaking news and keeping stories updated across all digital and print platformsBuilding a strong network of contacts to maintain a flow of news ranging from political figures to the general publicCollaborating with general news and other specialists, news editors, photographers and the Group Head of News in the newsroomPerforming other duties on occasion as required by the Farming Editor or other relevant EditorExperience & Qualifications (Minimum Experience & Essential Knowledge)At least two years' experience as a journalist with a track record in breaking stories and original journalismExperience in writing about farming is an advantageSkills -BehaviouralExcellent news judgmentAbility to generate original and engaging ideasOrganisation skills – ability to meet deadlines and manage time and story demandsStrong team player who can work with other departments across the businessSelf-starting, shows initiative, operate without supervision, motivatedAccuracy, fairness, balance, commitment to ethicsCreative flairAbility to conceptualiseDecisivenessFlexibility / willingness to adapt to technological and other changesSkills- TechnicalEngaging written and digital journalismCopy editing, including writing SEO and social friendly headlinesAbility to maximise social media and other digital tools to source farming / rural news information – and to promote your journalismProficiency in Adobe Illustrator and PhotoshopContent Management SystemGood knowledge of libel law and relevant legislation, including contempt, privacy, copyright etc.Knowledge of the Editors' Code of Practice and IPSO best practice