The Observer, London
Hybrid – 1 day a WFH
Who are we?
The Observer’s promise is in the name. The Observer bears witness; the best of journalism being curious minds at work. It loves the arts and ideas, both for their own sake and because they can change lives. It’s proudly progressive, but has no party allegiance. It’s open to different arguments and its editorial independence is non-negotiable. We are building a new Observer across print, audio and digital. We’re here to build journalism that lasts.
About the role
We are looking for an experienced Head of Photography based in our London office who will lead and expand our output of outstanding photojournalism. The successful candidate will manage a team of picture editors, researchers and photographers, as well as raising the standard of photography across the newspaper in print and online.
Key responsibilities include:
A large part of the role will be commissioning for The Observer’s news, features and narrative journalism.
You will also help designers and the wider picture desk commission original photography for covers, essays, special reports and work for our chosen commercial partners.
The Observer’s picture desk is a small team, so the Head of Photography will be open to working collaboratively with the Creative Director, the Head of Video and section editors as well as being enterprising and confident enough to use their own initiative.
About you:
The successful candidate will have outstanding visual and journalistic judgement with an international contacts book.
They will be capable of conducting picture research and commissioning reportage photography when news breaks, as well as working in a wide range of genres to accompany stories that are months in the making.
They will have a passion and enthusiasm for photography and current affairs.
Key skills & experience include:
10+ years experience
Significant digital experience, including awareness of the distinctive requirements for online display and social media, including video
Confident when pitching ideas and a visual direction to Editors and colleagues
Experience of commissioning for print
A passion for photography in all its forms
Extensive history commissioning intelligent and striking photography for both news and features
Contact book of photographers around the globe, and strong relationships with agents and new agencies
Picture-research skills, to source and edit powerful images quickly
Experience of managing a team and creating an environment where the team can do their best work. Managing team performance accordingly
Experience and interest in nurturing young talent
Excellent interpersonal skills, to persuade, reassure and enthuse
Strong interest in current affairs
The creativity to offer visual alternatives for stories
Organisational skills to hit deadlines and keep track of captions and credits
Experience in managing budgets and negotiating fees and licences
Experience of media law and copyright
Ability to write clear and helpful briefs
Experience of dealing with photographers working in conflict zones is also an advantage
Working with us
We are a progressive business with a diverse, motivated team.
We are committed to equal opportunities and creating an inclusive environment for all our employees, and we welcome applicants regardless of ethnic origin, national origin, gender, race, colour, religious beliefs, disability, sexual orientation or age.
Salary & Benefits
- 30 days holiday + bank holidays
- Private healthcare
- Group income protection & life assurance
- Pension
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Interest-free season ticket loan
- Free snacks and drinks in the newsroom
- Hybrid working (London newsroom + 1 day remote flexibility)
Our Process
We aim to run our interview process at pace and with clarity at every stage, recognising how challenging it can be to balance alongside other commitments or interviews. The number of stages will vary depending on the nature and level of the role, but we see this as a two-way process and hope you’ll enjoy the opportunity to meet a range of potential future colleagues.
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