Student University Mentor (6-month FTC)

About Us

The Financial Times is one of the world’s leading news organisations, globally recognised for its authority, integrity and accuracy, with a mission to deliver quality information and services worldwide.

At the FT, curiosity thrives and ambitious thinking is rewarded. Here, you’re given the chance to reach millions, create work that matters and deliver impartial journalism in a polarised world.

In our warm, collaborative culture, you’ll connect with a diverse community of experts who support your growth, career aspirations and wellbeing.

Your future at the FT will be filled with opportunities that challenge and inspire you. With no fixed path, you’ll discover new skills and forge a career that can take you anywhere.

Build a newsworthy career at the FT.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

We believe in the power of unique perspectives and want all voices in our organisation to be heard, respected and valued. A supportive workplace is one where employees feel they can be themselves and operate to their full potential. We are committed to removing barriers for everyone, with a focus on addressing those faced by underrepresented groups.

The Role

The FT Schools team is looking for Student University Mentors to support and inspire our global network of Student Advocates.

Student Advocates promote the benefits of the FT in schools and help represent the voice of students by sharing ideas on how the FT can be more relevant and engaging for teenagers. Student University Mentors will act as the bridge between these advocates and the FT, leading and motivating groups of up to 100 Student Advocates across the world.

In this paid, part-time contract role, you will work closely with the FT Schools team to support Student Advocates, gather feedback, discuss new ideas and help shape projects that make the FT more compelling for young people. The role can be carried out remotely from home or university and requires approximately 12 hours per month, spread throughout the month, for a contract duration of around six months.

This role would suit a current undergraduate university student who is motivated, organised and interested in helping young people engage with high-quality journalism and the world around them.

This position will be fully remote and for a total of approximately 4 hours per week.

Key Responsibilities

• Help a group of up to 100 Student Advocates feel confident exploring ideas to increase awareness of the FT in schools, including through monthly calls and regular communication on Slack.
• Lead, empower and mentor Student Advocates across different schools and regions.
• Communicate ideas clearly between the FT and Student Advocates, ensuring feedback and suggestions are shared in both directions.
• Work closely with the FT Schools team to help develop and implement ideas that support the Student Advocate programme.
• Gather feedback from Student Advocates on developing projects and find opportunities to improve engagement.
• Connect with teachers to share ideas and provide updates on their Student Advocate’s progress.
• Support a positive, inclusive and collaborative environment for students taking part in the programme.

Required Skills and Experience

• Current undergraduate university student.
• High levels of motivation and initiative.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage regular communication and follow-up activity.
• Very good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to lead, motivate and mentor a team.
• Confidence working remotely and communicating across digital channels such as Slack and video calls.
• Interest in supporting young people to engage with news, current affairs and the FT.

Desirable

• Familiarity with the FT and/or FT Schools.
• Experience mentoring, coaching, tutoring or supporting younger students.
• Experience leading a student society, club, campaign, peer network or similar group.
• An interest in education, journalism, media, business, economics or current affairs.

Accessibility

We are a disability confident employer and Valuable 500 signatory.

Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments/personalisation as part of the application process or to enable you to attend an interview. If you would like to discuss your requirements or have any questions, email talent@ft.com and a member of our team will be happy to help.

Further Information

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Candidates should be aware that the use of AI throughout the application process may be monitored to ensure a fair and transparent hiring process for all.
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