Iliffe Media Group is one of the country’s fastest-growing independent publishers with a portfolio of award-winning websites, newspapers and radio stations.

We are looking for an outstanding journalist to cover politics in Rutland as part of the Local Democracy Reporter scheme.

We are looking for a journalist with a keen interest in local politics, but who also understands instinctively how to report on issues that affect our readers’ lives and engage audiences.

As well as your work appearing on our own websites and newspapers, it will also feature on the BBC and other publishers who are members of the scheme.

This position will be based in the Rutland & Stamford Mercury newsroom in Stamford.

The successful candidate will be responsible for covering the unitary authority Rutland County Council, as well as the smaller parish councils. Although covering council meetings will be a key part of the role, we are looking for someone with a flair for generating ideas to create off-diary stories that will not only meet the remit of the scheme but will also engage with our growing digital audience.

This will be a significant time for Rutland as the council fights to protect its independence in the face of local government reorganisation

Shorthand and a formal qualification in journalism are essential for these roles, as is a driving licence and access to a car. We would consider trainees or senior reporters for this role.

Applications or expressions of interest should be sent to: kerry.coupe@iliffemedia.co.uk by midday on Friday, November 21.