Description:
The vacancy is for an experienced reporter based in our Dubai bureau to support Energy Intelligence in delivering authoritative, agenda-setting coverage of the Middle East energy sector, with Iraq and Iran a key focus. Ideal candidates should have significant experience of in-depth reporting of energy in the Middle East, though those with comparable analytical experience (eg at a research institute or think tank) may also be considered. The reporter will cover a broad range of issues related to oil, gas and energy in Iraq, Iran and the broader region as well as the intersection of energy and geopolitics. A demonstrated ability to join the threads on complex topics will be particularly prized, as will experience in editing, and/or mentoring more junior colleagues. A high level of facility with numbers and data is a must.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead coverage on Iraq and Iran’s energy sector, in particular oil and gas, including policy, upstream operations, export routes, licensing, IOC and NOC strategies, field development, downstream and service sector activity.
- Proactively produce event-driven and agenda-setting news stories, as well as deeper features and analysis that connect developments in policy, corporate strategy and geopolitics. A strong focus on original information, sourcing, angles and data visualization is required.
- Meshing energy with geopolitics is particularly key for Iran, with key topics including sanctions-related risk, trade flows and regional relations.
- Coverage of other Mideast countries as required (and dependent on experience/knowledge of the applicant), as well as Syria and Turkey.
- Build and maintain a strong network of sources across government, NOCs, regulators, operators, traders, service firms, advisers, and diplomats.
- Track, analyse and interpret production, export, and project timelines, integrating data and visuals into coverage.
- Collaborate with colleagues across bureaus and research teams to ensure consistent coverage, fast reaction to events, and strong editorial standards.
- Support junior reporters through coaching, editing support, and beat coordination as needed.
- Act as a thought leader on oil, energy and geopolitical themes in the Middle East. Act as an Energy Intelligence subject matter expert in client meetings, conferences, webinars, videos and media appearances as required.
- As part of a growing and dynamic team, the reporter may also be required to carry out any other duties that may reasonably be required of them. Travel will be required, and an ability to routinely attend industry events in Dubai and the broader region is a must.
SKILLS/EXPERIENCE
- At least 5-10 years of reporting or similar analytical experience, ideally covering energy, commodities, geopolitics, or business in the Middle East.
- Deep familiarity with the Mideast Gulf oil and gas sector, demonstrated strength in energy-related writing on Iraq.
- Strong understanding of how government decisions, institutions, and regional relationships shape energy outcomes, investment appetite, and operational realities.
- Ability to cover Iran with confidence and care, including fast moving developments and high consequence stories.
- Proven ability to develop exclusives, with a track record of source-driven reporting.
- Strong analytical skills to gather information and spot and explain important trends.
- Ability to identify and cultivate new sources as well as nurture existing contacts.
- Comfort working with data, documents, and primary sources, including contracts, budgets, regulatory releases, and trade or shipping indicators.
- Excellent writing skills, including the ability to explain complex subjects in accessible prose.
- Demonstrable facility with number-crunching, management of Excell spreadsheets, production of graphics.
- Ability to prioritize and deliver daily, weekly and long-term assignments on time.
- High standards for accuracy, fairness, and source protection, and strong editorial judgment in sensitive environments.
- Willingness to travel regionally as needed, including occasional short-notice trips.