Job Title: Local Economy Business Reporter

Location: Tampa Bay, FL

Position Summary

The Tampa Bay Times is seeking an ambitious and curious Local Economy Business Reporter to cover the forces shaping Tampa Bay’s dynamic and evolving economy. This role sits on the Business and Health team and focuses on delivering timely, insightful journalism on the companies, industries, and economic trends that define the region.

This reporter will balance fast-paced breaking news with deeply reported enterprise stories, helping readers understand not just what is happening, but why it matters. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable chasing scoops, analyzing data, and cultivating sources to uncover stories that impact how people live, work, and do business in Tampa Bay.

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
Proven 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

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