Sifted is looking for a reporter to join our fast-growing team of journalists covering the world of European startups and scaleups. This role will specifically focus on deeptech innovations (quantum, AI, synthetic biology, scientific breakthroughs) and emerging technologies like NFTs, Web3 and the metaverse. The role will report to our innovation editor, Maija Palmer.  

Some experience — or at least a keen interest — in reporting on science-based companies and tech innovations would be an advantage, although it isn’t strictly necessary. More crucially we are looking for someone with a hunger for building contacts, getting scoops, asking great questions and going deep into the issues that matter.

We would love to consider candidates who are based outside of the UK and/or have a keen interest in reporting all across Europe. We would also strongly encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply for this position.

The successful candidate will be more than “just” another reporter in a newsroom: you will play a big role in developing a modern media company and will have the opportunity to feed into our various products including events, podcasts and newsletters. You will also be mentored by a friendly team of journalists with experience at outlets like the Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Dagens Industri and Courier Magazine.

About Sifted

Sifted is a new media platform, backed by the Financial Times, reporting on the world of technology and startups in Europe. Three years after launching, our high-quality journalism is a must-read for many founders, investors and people working in startups across the continent.

Our team of reporters, based across Europe, aren’t chasing the latest funding announcements or product releases; plenty of other sites have got that covered. We are telling the stories that should be told — big startup trends, compelling company profiles and the everyday lessons that come from growing a business and messing up along the way.

We have also just raised £4m to do more of what we do, even better, which includes expanding our editorial team.

What Will You Be Doing?

It will be your mission to write agenda-setting journalism and make yourself one of the best known figures in your area of expertise. Through scoops, deep dives and classy writing you will grow a fanbase of readers who follow Sifted for your stories.

We’d like you to be creative with the format your stories take. You shouldn’t be afraid to grapple with innovative (or perhaps crazy) ideas or introduce our readers to the latest emerging technologies.

What Skills Do You Need?

We’re looking for someone who has at least two years’ experience in journalism. We want someone with strong English, original (and plentiful) ideas and the ability to write clean and characterful copy.

Ideally, you will be comfortable writing in a variety of formats, from news to features to data stories, hosting virtual and in-person events, and excited to work in an environment where things move fast and often change.

What Are We Like To Work For?

We have a small company mindset but big company goals, and can draw on many of the strengths and benefits of a world-respected brand, the Financial Times. We’re friendly, hard-working and passionate about what we do. We have a flat structure, collaborate across disciplines and everyone has an impact across many areas of the business. We value feedback, honesty and clear communication.

What we offer

• Salary of €33-54k (£27-45k) dependent on experience
• Options equal to 10% of your salary
• Shiny new technical equipment — we’re a Mac shop generally but are open to whatever suits your needs
• €1,200 annual learning budget to spend on personal development
• 25 days of annual leave plus the usual public holidays and the ability to work from abroad for four weeks a year (not including reporting trips)
• Regular team socials, both in-person (when possible) and online

Location

Open to remote candidates, based in Europe (preferably based in a startup hub). The Sifted HQ is in London but we have a small team of journalists based in continental Europe.

How To Apply

Please send an email explaining why you’d like to apply and why you think you’d be a good fit for this role to jobs@sifted.eu, addressed to our deputy editor Amy and innovation editor Maija. Please attach a CV. Please mention Journo Resources when you apply, it really helps us out.

Please also share:

• 3 articles you’ve written that you’re proud of
• 3 ideas for stories you would write for Sifted
• One idea for a new product or story format Sifted should try