Law Reporter, Ignites

About the role

Ignites, an online daily from the Financial Times, is seeking a reporter to join its team covering the retail fund industry. This role owns the beat of lawsuits filed by and against asset-management companies and the responsibility of decoding litigation trends that impact the industry. The hire will serve as a critical voice for a best-in-class publication that covers the mutual fund, ETF, and 401(k) marketplaces and acts as a go-to source for industry decision-makers. You will operate within the FT's Manhattan office, producing must-have content for a readership of more than 110,000 paying subscribers, supported by an inclusive and fast-paced environment. The role provides clear pathways to contribute to editorial discussions and collaborate closely with a team of journalists, ensuring your work has immediate impact and visibility. You will be expected to bring energy, precision, and a commitment to accuracy to every story.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Investigate and cover lawsuits and legal developments involving asset-management companies across the retail fund sector.
• Analyze complex legal filings and court documents to identify and explain litigation trends that affect the industry.
• Break news and produce high-impact stories that inform a specialized audience of industry professionals.
• Build and maintain a robust network of industry sources to support ongoing reporting and ensure deep context.
• Generate forward-looking story ideas and actively contribute to editorial discussions shaping the publication's agenda.
• Work collaboratively with a team of journalists to research, write, and refine stories that meet the highest standards.
• Present content across multiple formats including print narratives, data graphics, and video explanations for digital platforms.
• Engage with senior-level industry executives and travel to relevant conferences to report on key developments in person.
• Synthesize dense regulatory and legal information into clear, accessible reporting for a non-specialist audience.
• Monitor emerging risks and compliance issues, translating them into timely stories that serve the public interest.
• Support the publication's editorial standards by meeting strict deadlines and maintaining factual accuracy in every piece.
• Contribute to the growth of the publication by identifying sources, angles, and trends that strengthen long-term coverage.
• Act as a trusted voice for readers who rely on accurate, timely information to make investment and regulatory decisions.
• Leverage digital tools and workflows to enhance storytelling, ensuring content is engaging and easily shareable.
• Represent the publication professionally in all interactions, upholding the reputation of FT Specialist US.

Requirements

• 3-5 years of journalism experience preferred.
• Experience reviewing lawsuits and legal filings is required.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and cultivate a strong network of sources.
• Strong critical thinking and analytical skills to interpret legal and financial information.
• Interest in covering financial services, asset management, or related regulatory topics.
• Capacity to work independently with minimal supervision while also thriving in a team setting.
• Flexibility and creativity in storytelling across multiple media platforms, including text, graphics, and video.
• Commitment to accuracy, fairness, and transparency in all reporting practices.
• Willingness to adhere to strict editorial standards and meet deadlines in a fast-moving news environment.
• Understanding of confidentiality and source protection in sensitive legal coverage.
• Professional communication skills, both written and verbal, to interact effectively with sources and executives.
• Ability to travel domestically for industry conferences and reporting assignments as needed.
• Compliance with the Financial Times' code of conduct and ethical guidelines.

Nice to have

• Prior financial journalism experience, though not required, is valued.
• Familiarity with asset-management structures, fund products, and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience producing visual content such as graphics or short videos to support stories.
• Understanding of audience data and engagement metrics to refine coverage strategy.
• Background in covering other financial services topics, such as banking or insurance.

Practical notes

• This is a full-time position based in New York.
• The role includes some travel for industry conferences.
• Employment is represented by the Writers Guild of America East.
• A reasonable salary estimate for this role is $71,000-$80,000 for the NYC office.
• The Financial Times is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes diverse applicants.
• Candidates may use AI tools during the application process, provided all information remains accurate and reflects their own skills and experience.
• Applicants are reminded to apply only through official Financial Times career channels to avoid fraudulent postings.