The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world's population sees AP journalism every day.

The Associated Press seeks a proactive, detail-oriented professional to join the News Operations team as a field operations manager. In this critical role, you will directly support AP’s global journalists, ensuring they have the tools and resources needed to report the world’s biggest stories—even in fast-moving and complex situations. If you thrive on problem-solving, logistics, and working behind the scenes to power impactful journalism, this role offers an exciting opportunity to make a difference.

Based in London, this role focuses on managing field equipment logistics and operations to support AP’s global news teams. The role reports to the news manager for field innovation based in Barcelona but will also work closely with the vice president and head of global news production, the director of photography and the director of global video — all based in London — as well as the director of news operations, based in New York, and other staff based around the world. This role will also involve close collaboration with colleagues in Technology and Finance to ensure seamless operations.

We are looking for a detail-oriented problem-solver who excels at managing multiple projects, can act as a project manager as needed and thrives in a deadline-driven environment. 

In this role, you’ll gain invaluable experience in global logistics, media operations and strategic decision-making. Working closely with seasoned industry leaders, you’ll build the expertise needed to navigate complex international operations and expand your skills in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:

The field operations manager will report to the news manager for field innovation and will be responsible for:

• Overseeing and maintaining AP’s global inventory of essential newsgathering equipment—including still and video camera gear, satellite communication tools, vehicles and more—ensuring journalists have what they need to report from anywhere in the world.
• Managing the movement of critical field equipment into and out of countries where AP journalists are working, ensuring compliance with customs, sanctions and other regulations—including during breaking news situations.
• Creating and maintaining a centralized database to track all field equipment globally.
• Coordinating the procurement and delivery of cameras and associated equipment, along with other newsgathering gear. This includes working with internal stakeholders to ensure we acquire the right gear within budget, processing payments and efficiently handling deployment and shipping.
• Coordinating with journalists, other field staff and vendors to arrange for repairs or replacements of equipment as needed to keep news coverage running smoothly

Qualifications:

You are a resourceful, solutions-oriented professional with a knack for logistics. You excel under pressure and thrive in fast-paced, mission-driven environments. Specific qualifications include:

• At least three years of experience managing field operations, equipment logistics or a similar role in a global organization. Experience in the media or news industry is a plus, but we welcome candidates with backgrounds in logistics, production, humanitarian aid or other fast-paced environments. Within any of those fields, experience navigating customs regulations and logistical challenges, ideally when transporting equipment internationally, is preferred.
• Highly organized, proactive and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate across teams to ensure efficient workflows, especially during significant news events.
• Proven ability to manage inventory systems and develop centralized tracking tools or databases. Familiarity with asset management platforms such as Cheqroom, task management tools like Asana and/or advanced Excel skills are a plus but not required. We value problem-solving abilities and a willingness to learn over specific software expertise.
• Ability to safely lift and carry equipment, such as heavy Pelican cases, as part of managing stores or handling logistics around shipping and repairs.
• Technical knowledge of video and still cameras, satellite communication devices, and other field reporting tools is helpful but not required.
• Advanced-level professional competency in written and spoken English; additional language skills are a plus.
• Willingness to work irregular hours at times, including nights and weekends, to support operational needs.
• Commitment to AP’s policies, including our News Values and Principles.
• All applicants must be eligible to work in the U.K. or secure the necessary authorization to do so.

Please note: AP is a hybrid office-remote workplace. This role requires the successful candidate to work from AP’s London office at least three days per week. However, due to operational demands unique to this role, additional in-office presence will likely be necessary, and the candidate should be prepared to come in on other days as needed.

We encourage applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply. If you are interested in this role but don’t meet every listed qualification, we still encourage you to apply and explain in your cover letter the unique experiences, skills and perspectives you would bring to the team. 

Application deadline is March 12, 2025, 11:59pm EST.
 

AP seeks to build an inclusive organization grounded in respect for differences. We support all aspects of diversity and provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a veteran, or other characteristic protected by law. We encourage members of historically underrepresented communities, including women and BIPOC, to apply.