Leads Researcher, Countryfile

This is an exciting opportunity to research investigative, current affairs stories for Countryfile, one of the BBC's flagship factual programmes. We are seeking a Researcher with an interest in countryside issues and the ability to quickly develop expertise. Working closely with a Producer, you will play a key role in developing investigations that sit at the heart of rural affairs broadcasting and help lead the agenda on issues shaping the countryside and beyond. You will have experience uncovering stories that matter, developing exclusive angles and bringing clarity and insight to complex subject areas. If you are driven by public-interest journalism and want to shape the national conversation around rural life, we'd love to hear from you. You will be expected to:

• Identify, research and develop investigative story ideas with strong editorial focus.
• Build and maintain relationships with key figures and organisations across the rural agenda.
• Use your contacts and journalistic skills to uncover exclusive stories that translate into compelling television.
• Handle sensitive contributors with care and professionalism.
• Support the logistical organisation of investigations, including shoot planning and scheduling.
• A strong knowledge of countryside issues is essential.
Are You the Right Candidate?


• Strong journalistic skills with experience delivering popular, hard hitting current affairs.
• A clear understanding of the BBC audience and a commitment to reflecting diverse perspectives within rural Britain.
• Knowledge of, or the ability to quickly identify and engage with, key organisations
• Proven ability to understand complex information and translate it into compelling television.
• Ability to work in a supportive team to deliver high-quality journalism under deadlines.
• Strong organisational and communication skills, including scheduling and coordinating shoots.
• Familiarity with, or willingness to learn, BBC Editorial Guidelines, health and safety policies and archiving systems.
• Resilience, sensitivity and the ability to juggle multiple investigations at once.
Desirable
• Experience sourcing and clearing archive material, both within the BBC and from external sources.
• Basic shooting skills.