JOURNALIST/MEDIA OUTREACH

The Task Force on Financial Integrity and Economic Development is looking for an experienced journalist in a fast-paced, exciting field which is now attracting major international media attention worldwide. The Task Force is a consortium of governments and research and advocacy organisations seeking greater transparency in the global financial system.

The journalist will be expected to work closely with experts who are working to promote financial transparency and accountability for the benefit of developing countries.

The journalist will consult with experts to prepare materials, and will connect journalists with experts. This position will based in the UK, ideally in London or with easy access to London

A counterpart journalist will be based in Washington DC, and close liaison will be important. The post holder will be supported by a supervisory group.

This initiative is supported by the Tax Justice Network and the person appointed will work closely with the director of its International Secretariat and other team members, as well as other members of Task Force member organisations.

Main responsibilities

• Turn Task Force materials into lively, readable copy for journalists and for public audiences
• Write and place timely op-eds and blogs relating to current news items
• Identify and cultivate media contacts on Task Force issues
• Inform journalists about illicit financial flows, bank secrecy, tax evasion and corruption, and help them with story ideas
• Coordinate closely with task force members

Knowledge required

• Excellent general knowledge of target media markets
• Significant contacts in print, broadcast and online media
• Working knowledge of new media
• Some familiarity with (and high enthusiasm to learn about) illicit financial flows, tax evasion, corruption, bank secrecy and related issues

Skills/ Personal Qualities

• Strong news sense
• Ability to write clear and accurate copy to deadline
• Ability to respond and work well under pressure and to prioritise workload and to multi-task
• Proven team player with a ‘can-do' approach
• Strong networking and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work without close supervision and take the initiative

Other requirements

• Extensive experience working as a journalist
• Experience of pitching stories to journalists and editors across a range of media
• Fluency in English is essential; French, German, Portuguese and/or Spanish would be a plus

If interested, please email a cover letter, résumé and list of published work. Applications should be submitted by 1 July, 2011 to liz(at)taxjustice.net.