Sports Reporter - Southampton

Application Deadline: 5 June 2026

Department: Editorial

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Southampton

Reporting To: Benjamin Fishwick

Description

We’re looking for an energetic, dynamic Sports Reporter to join the Southern Daily Echo, covering Southampton FC and the wider local sporting scene. This is a key role in our newsroom, focused on delivering high-quality, engaging coverage of Saints alongside grassroots and non-league sport across the patch. You’ll be a talented writer with strong multimedia skills, confident in producing content across digital, video and social platforms.

Key Responsibilities

You will work alongside our Senior Sports Reporter and benefit from his mentoring. A deep understanding of Southampton FC is essential, along with the drive to break stories, build contacts and provide insight that resonates with our loyal audience, including digital subscribers. 

We’re looking for someone who can bring energy, authority and originality to their reporting both online and in print.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Demonstrable digital journalism experience in a fast-paced newsroom, with a strong track record
• In-depth knowledge of Southampton FC and a keen interest in local sport at all levels
• The ability to generate original story ideas and develop them into engaging content
• Strong writing skills, from breaking news to in-depth features and analysis
• Experience or confidence in video, audio and social storytelling, including filming and editing on mobile
• The confidence to appear on short and long-form video, podcasts or live blogs when required
• A solid understanding of social media platforms and how to grow and engage audiences
• Knowledge of SEO and digital publishing best practice
• An interest in football tactics, data or analysis, including the ability to produce insightful tactical analysis
• Experience or enthusiasm for writing and growing newsletters
• A relevant NCTJ-accredited journalism qualification or equivalent experience
• The ability to support the wider newsroom with general news coverage when required

We want someone who can cover Southampton FC with authority and flair, while also shining a light on the wider local sports scene. You’ll be part of a busy, ambitious newsroom with a strong digital focus and a commitment to high-quality local journalism. We are committed to developing journalists, and as such, you will be enrolled on an NCTJ-accredited programme, putting you on the path to qualify as a Senior Sports Reporter upon successful completion of your course. This role reports directly to the Editor.

Benefits

• 25 days holiday + bank holidays + your birthday off
• Holiday buy scheme for extra flexibility
• Structured career progression & ongoing training
• Pension plan 
• Employee Helpline counselling and advice
• Perks & discounts including: 
  • Gym membership
  • Cycle to Work scheme
  • Eye care
  • Retail discounts
• Team building days & annual volunteer charity day