Discourse Media is accepting applications for a reporter who will establish and lead a beat critically examining Canada’s commitments and contributions to the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With a strong interest in, and knowledge of, sustainable development issues, the successful candidate will help to develop editorial strategy for this new beat. They will lead original and impactful investigations, as well as connecting with their audience through newsletters, news stories and other digital content. The reporter will also seek to nurture dialogue around the SDGs with concerned communities and emerging influencers.

This is a permanent, full-time position (Monday-Friday, 37.5 hours/week) with health benefits. This role reports to the Executive Editor. The reporter can be based in Vancouver or Toronto.

ABOUT US

We are an independent journalism company dedicated to in-depth reporting on complex issues facing Canada and the world. Discourse is building a home for new approaches to storytelling that look beyond conflict-driven daily news cycles. We tell stories Canadians need in ways they can trust, and seek to engage them in constructive dialogue.

Discourse produces investigations, analysis and data journalism focused on matters of public importance: gender, environment, education, child welfare, the economy, politics, Indigenous issues and more. We look for gaps in reporting and pursue stories that have potential for impact. We publish on our own digital platform and broaden our reach through media partners.

JOB DESCRIPTION

As a member of a small but growing editorial team, the reporter will contribute to a wide variety of tasks and projects, including:

• Conduct research and analysis to inform and develop reporting, content and engagement strategy central to this new beat.
• Report and produce multimedia articles and in-depth investigations on the SDGs, with an emphasis on imaginative, original and impactful storytelling.
• Foster, facilitate and curate dialogue among community members interested in SDG-related issues.
• Where appropriate, work with other team members to devise and create project-specific content (data visualizations, photo essays, text-on-screen videos, graphics, etc).
• Contribute to the design and execution of the digital strategy for in-depth investigations.
• Engage other media outlets in collaborative reporting initiatives.
• Develop a long-term coverage, engagement and distribution plan around reporting of SDG-related issues.  
• Contribute to a positive, collaborative team environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

• At least five years of professional journalism experience.
• Substantial reporting on areas such as policymaking, development, Indigenous issues, health, education, science or the environment.
• Skilled in understanding and explaining policy decisions and their implications for a broad audience.
• Track record in identifying original story angles and seeking out the bigger picture beyond the headlines.
• Demonstrated ability to interact with a variety of groups, including policy makers, subject matter experts and community members.
• Experience engaging with and developing digital communities an asset.
• Experience creating and producing material for digital journalism outlets an asset, as is a strong eye for visual content.
• Self starter, highly motivated, able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Open to collaborative working practices.
• Knowledge of solutions journalism and community-based methods an asset.
• Candidates must be eligible to work in Canada.

APPLICATION

Send your CV along with a cover letter of up to two pages explaining your interest in Discourse and what you would bring to the role and our team. Please include a portfolio or at least two links to relevant work. Email your application by Oct. 6, 2017 to with “Application: SDG Reporter” in the subject line.

At Discourse we are committed to developing a diverse and inclusive team. We encourage applicants with a range of perspectives, abilities, backgrounds and experiences. Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.