The Stage Media Company Ltd, based in London Bridge, is dedicated to providing up-to-date news and services for the UK’s theatre, performing arts and book publishing industry with two key titles: The Stage and The Bookseller. Both The Stage and The Bookseller are established leaders within their respective fields, offering industry news, authoritative reviews/interviews and insightful features.

The Stage, the publication for the theatre industry, has an opportunity for a talented, multi-skilled features editor to work on a well-established title on a nine-month maternity cover contract. As features editor, you will be reporting to The Stage’s editor. The role will require first-class writing and editing skills, accuracy under pressure and a passion for the theatre.

Main purpose of the role

Oversee all features from commissioning to publication. Serve as a champion for The Stage’s feature content, representing its values and vision at industry events and within the editorial team. Continually strive to improve The Stage’s feature content and explore new writers, formats and methods of engagement.

Key responsibilities include:

Content

• Identify timely, engaging topics for features and opinion pieces, and collaborate with a national network of freelancers, theatre PRs and management to commission and deliver compelling content for both print and digital platforms  

• Edit freelance copy to ensure it meets The Stage’s high standards, adheres to house style, and aligns with feature guidelines
• Collaborate with production desk, PRs and photographers to source and approve high-quality images aligned with editorial content
• Lead by example by writing engaging, industry-focused features for The Stage

Leadership

• Recruit, train, and mentor freelance feature writers, fostering a diverse talent pool and continually improving the quality of contributions
• Provide constructive feedback and guidance to freelancers to enhance their writing skills

Collaboration

• Liaise with the production desk and editors to ensure a seamless workflow and maintain publishing deadlines
• Work closely with The Stage’s social media team to develop and implement strategies that amplify feature content across platforms
• Attend and actively participate in industry events, networking to enhance The Stage’s visibility and build relationships with key stakeholders

Workflow management

• Oversee the end-to-end workflow of editorial assets, ensuring features are of the highest quality and published on time
• Administer freelance feature contributor payments and maintain accurate records
• Be willing and able to delegate duties effectively and cover other roles within the editorial team as needed

Key skills required:

• Superb writing and editing skills with close attention to detail
• Excellent written, verbal and organisational abilities
• Proven track record of publishing engaging, industry-focused articles with excellent journalistic judgment as a published writer 
• Journalism qualification or equivalent experience
• Solid and continually improving industry knowledge
• Established contacts within the theatre industry
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships
• Ability to edit quickly and accurately under pressure
• Solid understanding of SEO principles to maximise audience engagement and reach
• Proficiency with content management systems, social media tools, and basic image editing software

Personal attributes required:

• A deep passion for theatre and an understanding of its diverse voices, communities and cultural significance
• Excellent organisational ability and attention to detail
• A flexible attitude to working patterns, including occasional evening and weekend work 
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to build positive relationships within a team-oriented environment
• Able to work independently and take initiative
• Willingness to learn and adapt to evolving business needs

Other information:

The salary advertised will be pro rata based on the length of the cover contract. 

Normal working hours are 10am-6pm, five days a week, with occasional evening or weekend work to cover events. This role offers a hybrid working arrangement, requiring three days a week at The Stage’s office on Bermondsey Street, SE1, with opportunities for remote work on other days.

Please note we start screening CVs and interviewing candidates from the start of a campaign. A successful candidate could progress to offer before the advertised closing date. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible if you are interested.

Closing date - January 23, 2025

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background, and celebrate the unique perspectives and experiences that diversity brings.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please do not hesitate to let us know. We are here to support you and ensure you have the best possible experience.