Role:Senior Journalist – Maternity CoverDepartment:EditorialFunction:PublishingReporting to:News EditorRole PurposeThe Irish Independent is recruiting for an experienced journalist who can provide exclusive, signature journalism.The ideal candidate will be a self-starter with a strong track record in breaking stories. He/she should be an excellent writer who can work off-diary and originate their own journalism. They will also work on breaking news stories as required.They must have a strong news sense and be capable of working independently while taking care to ensure stories are verified, legally sound and fit for publication on Mediahuis Ireland's digital platforms.The role demands an ability to call a story, identify underlying themes and to explain the detail to readers in an accessible way.The successful candidate will regularly contribute to our video and podcast output.They will report to the News Editor under the overall direction of the Group Head of News. This is a specific purpose contractRole Responsibilities (Overview)Develop story ideas and work closely with the NewsdeskWork to ensure major/original news stories are broken by the Irish IndependentWrite, edit and digitally enhance news stories in a fast-paced environmentCalmly handle live, breaking news situationsReport accurately on events and in a timely fashionCopy editingWork collaboratively with News Editors and with other senior members of the newsroomEngage with the Audience Desk to help the Irish Independent project our news coverage in the best fashion possible.Work with the Audio department on podcasts such as The Indo Daily.Carry out your duties at all times in accordance with Mediahuis' Editorial Code of Practice and relevant professional and legal codesExperience & Qualifications (Minimum Experience & Essential Knowledge)At least 3 years' journalistic experienceNews reporting experience is essentialExperience working in an online environmentExperience in audio/video is an advantage but not essentialSkills(Technical & Non-Technical)Technical & Non-TechnicalWritten / Digital journalismCopy editingBroad general knowledge and understanding of the Irish news agendaStrong news judgementManaging a wide and varied mix of storiesUse social media and other digital tools to source news information and to promote our journalismTeam player - working with other journalists and editors to get the best storiesMeet rolling deadlinesOrganisation – ability to plan towards deadlinesExcellent knowledge of libel lawUnderstanding of audio/podcast environment.Ability to shoot video footage using a mobile phone.OtherPassion for journalismCreative FlairAbility to work at speed and under pressureAbility to conceptualiseSelf-starting and shows initiativeAccuracy, fairness, balance, commitment to ethicsFlexibility / willingness to adaptDetail OrientedEffective CollaborationLearning Agility