The Big Issue is looking for a Deputy Editor to join our team. This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a versatile journalist wanting to make a positive social impact as you help to produce this unique national publication.

The Big Issue Australia is an independent organisation that develops and operates social enterprises and creative, sustainable solutions to homelessness, providing opportunities for people experiencing marginalisation and disadvantage to positively change their lives.

About the Opportunity

The Big Issue is seeking a Deputy Editor to help produce our high-quality current affairs and arts magazine each fortnight. This is a four-day a week position, based in Melbourne.

Specific Tasks

• Work with the Editor to inform editorial strategy to create high-quality content to drive circulation for vendors.
• Develop innovative story and cover ideas.
• Commission writers and manage submissions.
• Edit copy so that it’s accurate, concise and legally proofed.
• Write headlines and captions and copy for features, news stories and interviews.
• Manage and mentor contributors.
• Brief designers, photographers and illustrators.
• Lead the Editorial team and production process in the Editor’s absence.
• Work collaboratively with Big Issue vendors to capture their voice and stories for print and digital.
• Work collaboratively with the Marketing team on digital copy and editorial strategy.
• Work collaboratively with the Marketing and Operations teams to ensure sales targets are achieved.
• Work with the Editor to produce an annual calendar and other special projects.

The Candidate

You are an established or emerging journalist/editor, with proven editing and commissioning experience. You will be an editorial all-rounder and an innovative thinker who thrives in a collaborative environment. You will have excellent leadership and communication skills, and the ability to manage and motivate a diverse team.

You have a keen news sense, and a genuine interest in news, current affairs and entertainment. You are an ideas person with an ability to generate story and cover ideas. You will be highly organised, detail-oriented and committed to inclusive, high-quality and ethical journalism.

An understanding of design and layout, and a working knowledge of InDesign, InCopy and Photoshop is desirable – or a willingness to learn.

Key Selection Criteria

• Experience in a similar role, specifically in an editing capacity
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines
• Alignment with The Big Issue’s values and a commitment to contributing to an established, highly valued publication
• Existing body of work that demonstrates your suitability to the organisation and the role