First Edition Lead Writer

We’re looking for a lead writer to write the Guardian’s flagship morning newsletter, First Edition. This is a high-profile, agenda-shaping role at the very heart of how we speak to our readers every day. You will be one of the public faces of the Guardian, setting the tone for the day’s conversation with incisive analysis, sharp judgement and a distinctive voice. As the writer of First Edition, you won’t just summarise the news – you’ll define what matters, illuminate complex stories with wit and clarity, and help our readers make sense of the world. You’ll appear across all our platforms and beyond – from newsletters and podcasts to live events and media appearances – as one of the Guardian’s most recognisable personalities. This is a rare opportunity to lead the conversation every morning, shape the national and global news agenda, and become a key figure in one of the world’s most respected newsrooms. Join our team at the Guardian and be a part of a diverse and inclusive global organisation that delivers fearless, investigative journalism, and holds power to account. Our team of award-winning journalists, cutting-edge commercial professionals, and industry-leading digital experts are committed to making a difference and represent a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. We offer a challenging and exciting environment for career development, with a focus on training, growth and fostering an inclusive culture. This is a permanent, 5 days per week NUJ contract. About the role: Identify and interview experts, both internally and externally, at short notice on the big news events of the day Stay abreast of the latest news, culture and lifestyle stories to feed into the newsletter and plan for future editions Monitor a range of sources and diaries for breaking/developing/upcoming newsletters On the days you write the newsletter, it is filed at 3pm, your day is finished by 4.30pm, with support from our Australian office to update, and on very rare occasions pivot to a new subject. Contribute work on other desks as and when appropriate. Help promote the newsletter on social media, events and audio visual projects. About you: Demonstrable experience of writing in a fast paced environment for a national or regional news publication Knowledge/awareness of the demands of digital platforms Proven experience of writing news Experience or interest in writing newsletters Good range of contacts Understanding of media law Interest or experience in working on social media and in audiovisual settings. Ideally you will have a demonstrable ability to bring a diverse perspective to this role We actively encourage applications from candidates who are Black, Asian or minority-ethnic (BAME), or from other groups traditionally underrepresented in the UK media. How to apply To apply, please upload your latest CV and a cover letter which outlines why you’d love to take on this role, and why you’re a great match for what we’re looking for. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 23rd December 2025. All roles at the Guardian are open for everybody to apply. It is important to us that you feel supported and comfortable throughout your recruitment process, in order to perform your best. Please let us know if there are any changes we could make to the application process to make it easier and more comfortable for you. Please contact Sean on sean.brinkley@guardian.co.uk to discuss further so we can work with you to support you through your application. Benefits at the Guardian We offer six weeks annual leave per annum with the option to buy additional days through our holiday purchase scheme. Our pension scheme is generous; if you contribute 5% then we will contribute 8-12% (depending on your age). We believe in giving back, which is why employees are given 2 volunteering days annually and the option of payroll giving. Season ticket loans are also available. You are entitled to life cover, income protection, private healthcare, sick pay and eye tests. You can also opt in to dental insurance. We have enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave policies in place. We also support our employees by offering an IVF, menopause, baby loss, and trans equality policy. Culture & wellbeing We want everyone to feel like they belong at the Guardian and we champion diversity of thought. Our various employee forums provide a platform to use their voice to foster an inclusive workplace. We offer great tools to help you prioritise your wellbeing including free yoga and pilates. These run alongside our corporate gym membership and cycle to work scheme. Learning & development We encourage personal and professional growth. Employees have access to a broad range of tools and solutions, and we are happy to support the pursuit of professional qualifications through vocational courses and apprenticeships. Our working environment We take pride in our surroundings and are pleased to offer versatile meeting rooms and colourful communal areas. We have a brilliant canteen that caters to breakfast, lunch and dinner, with views overlooking Regent’s Canal.