Casting Researcher

Applications should be sent to About the role The UK’s largest independent news agency in the UK is looking for a resourceful and highly motivated Researcher to join the SWNS Originals team. This is an ideal opportunity for someone with early-career experience in casting, journalism, documentary development, factual entertainment or contributor research who thrives on finding untold stories and building trust with people from all walks of life, at the UK’s most trusted news organisation. While the immediate priority will be casting and research for a number of new and existing formats on the Key Witness channel, , the successful candidate will also support wider development activity across SWNS Originals, helping identify stories, talent and access opportunities for documentaries, factual formats and video-first productions. We hope this may become a full-time, permanent role for the right candidate, should business need remain. What we’re looking for Essential Experience in journalism, documentary casting, factual television, development or production Proven ability to find and secure contributors with compelling real-life stories Strong interviewing skills Excellent research skills and attention to detail Excellent written and verbal communication skills Experience handling sensitive and emotionally challenging subjects with empathy and professionalism Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously A proactive, persistent and self-motivated approach to work An interest in true crime and human-interest content Not afraid to pick up the phone and call people who may not be expecting to hear from you Able and willing to hit the road, and go out on location to source contributors and do research Desirable Experience casting for documentaries, factual entertainment, podcasts or digital formats Understanding of duty of care, contributor welfare and editorial compliance Experience working with vulnerable contributors Knowledge of true crime, human interest and documentary storytelling Experience creating contributor briefs, casting documents and development materials Understanding of media law Experience in video production Able to drive and have a car Key responsibilities Find and secure compelling contributors at the centre of extraordinary real-life events, for Key Witness and other original video-first formats Conduct contributor outreach, pre-interviews and suitability assessments Build relationships with charities, support groups and key contacts to uncover new stories Research stories, gather supporting information and identify strong editorial angles Prepare contributor summaries and briefing materials Work closely with the production team to support filming and development Ensure all contributors are assessed with appropriate editorial and duty-of-care considerations Help build a pipeline of exclusive stories and contributors for future series and formats Personal qualities We’re looking for someone who

(Fixed Term Contract - 3 to 6 months) SWNS Originals Contract: Fixed-term (3-6 months) Location: Bristol hybrid (We operate on a 3 day office, 2 day WFH week) Start Date: ASAP Salary: Dependent on experience. This is an early-career opportunity.