Local Economy Business Reporter

Key Responsibilities

• Report and write timely, accurate breaking news on local business and economic developments
• Develop enterprise stories that explore trends in Tampa Bay’s economy, including tourism, workforce shifts, innovation, and corporate activity
• Cover major regional employers (e.g., Publix, Jabil, Bloomin’ Brands, ReliaQuest) and identify news opportunities within large organizations
• Monitor and interpret data sources such as federal economic reports, corporate filings, and industry analyses to generate story ideas
• Build and maintain a strong network of sources across business, government, and the startup ecosystem
• Track the growth of Tampa Bay’s startup and innovation sectors, including emerging companies and investment activity
• Translate complex economic and business topics into clear, engaging journalism for a broad audience
• Collaborate with editors and colleagues to prioritize coverage and elevate storytelling across platforms
• Identify and pursue exclusive stories that differentiate the Tampa Bay Times from competitors

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Demonstrated experience in reporting, preferably covering business, economics, or related beats
• Strong news judgment with the ability to move quickly on breaking stories without sacrificing accuracy
• Experience developing enterprise or investigative stories
• Comfort working with data, reports, and financial documents to inform coverage
• Pioneering ability to cultivate and maintain source relationships
• Excellent writing and storytelling skills, with the ability to explain complex topics clearly
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Curiosity about economic trends and how they impact local communities