BRUSSELS CORRESPONDENT – Agra Europe

Leading business-to-business publisher Informa Agra is seeking a Brussels Correspondent to work on its flagship publication, Agra Europe. This represents an excellent opportunity to launch or develop a career in journalism for anyone with a keen interest in European affairs.

Agra Europe is a long-established subscription news service which enjoys an unparalleled reputation as a reliable source of timely information on EU agricultural policy issues. It is avidly read by leading decision-makers in the agri-food industry and in ministries of agriculture throughout the world.

You will be based in Brussels and will be responsible for researching and writing news stories and other content for Agra Europe’sonline information services and related print newsletter.

The job requires an ability to assimilate complex policy issues and to communicate these in clear, concise and compelling English, working to tight deadlines. A willingness to engage closely in the technical and political details of the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy - and to become, in effect, an expert in the field - is essential.

You will also need to have, or be capable of developing, a good understanding of overlapping EU policy areas such as trade, energy or the environment.

We are looking for a positive and energetic individual who is able to generate copy from a wide variety of sources – including phone and face-to-face interviews. The job requires an ability to develop and nurture good personal relationships with key personnel within the institutions of the European Union, with a view to getting good stories that go beyond what is produced by the relevant press services.

You will be numerate and have a good ability to understand basic financial, economic and scientific concepts.

As well as perfect command of English, a high degree of proficiency in French is essential. Knowledge of other European languages – especially German - would also be a great asset.

The Brussels Correspondent will also be expected to contribute pro-actively to our Brussels Blog and other similar social media initiatives. You will be expected (in due time) to contribute original analytical articles on agricultural policy issues.

The Brussels correspondent will report directly to Agra Europe’s Europe Editor, who is also Brussels-based. You will work in close conjunction with your line manager, in a team of two - and the ability to form and sustain a good working partnership is therefore essential. The job involves covering for the Europe Editor when he/she is ill, on holiday, etc.

The job will require occasional travel within Europe to cover ministerial meetings or other similar relevant events. In addition, occasional evening work will be required, notably when covering EU Agriculture Council meetings or similar.

In return, we can offer you a competitive salary, and the chance to work as part of a dynamic and forward-thinking publishing team in a stimulating environment.