About Company
Nightshift Magazine has been the definitive voice of the Oxford music scene for over three decades. Established in 1992, we are an independent monthly publication dedicated to championing local talent, reviewing gigs, interviewing artists, and covering the vibrant pulse of music across Oxford and Oxfordshire. We are more than just a magazine; we are a community hub, a launchpad for emerging artists, and an essential guide for music lovers. Our passion is discovering and promoting the next big thing, and we pride ourselves on our deep connections within the grassroots music community. Joining Nightshift means becoming part of a legacy that has fostered countless artists and contributed significantly to the cultural fabric of our city, helping to shape the sound of a generation.
Job Description
Are you a true music aficionado with an exceptional ear for what’s next? Do you thrive on discovering emerging artists and connecting them with wider audiences? Nightshift Magazine, Oxford’s premier independent music publication, is seeking a passionate and driven Talent Scout to join our dedicated team. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the dynamic world of music, making a tangible impact on the careers of burgeoning artists within Oxford and the surrounding regions.
As our Talent Scout, you will be the eyes and ears of Nightshift, actively seeking out, identifying, and championing exciting new musical talent across all genres. Your primary focus will be on grassroots artists, bands, and performers who are making waves in the local scene but might be just on the cusp of broader recognition. This isn’t just about finding artists; it’s about understanding their potential, nurturing relationships, and helping to tell their stories through our influential platforms.
You will be expected to regularly attend local gigs, open mic nights, showcase events, and proactively connect with venue promoters, producers, managers, and other key industry professionals. Your insights will directly inform our editorial content, helping us decide who to feature in the magazine, on our website, and through our engaging social media channels. Beyond identification, you’ll play a crucial role in artist development by providing constructive feedback, facilitating introductions, and working closely with our editorial team to craft compelling narratives around the artists you discover.
This role demands a proactive approach, exceptional networking skills, and an encyclopedic knowledge of current music trends, particularly within the independent and alternative scenes. You’ll need to be an excellent communicator, capable of building rapport quickly with diverse personalities and representing Nightshift Magazine with enthusiasm and professionalism. If you possess an unwavering passion for music, a keen analytical mind for talent, and a desire to shape the future sound of Oxford, we encourage you to apply. This is more than a job; it’s a chance to live and breathe music, and to be a pivotal player in the careers of tomorrow’s stars.
Key Responsibilities
- Actively scout and identify emerging musical talent across Oxford and the wider region by attending gigs, showcases, and industry events.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with artists, bands, managers, promoters, and other key music industry stakeholders.
- Provide detailed reports and recommendations on potential artists for editorial features, interviews, and promotional opportunities.
- Collaborate with the editorial team to develop compelling content strategies around discovered talent.
- Stay informed on current music trends, artist development strategies, and changes within the local and national music landscape.
- Represent Nightshift Magazine at industry events, fostering a positive brand image.
- Assist artists in understanding their potential and guide them towards opportunities for growth and exposure.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 3 years of experience within the music industry (e.g., A&R, artist management, music journalism, event promotion).
- Deep and current knowledge of the Oxford and UK independent music scene across various genres.
- Exceptional networking and relationship-building abilities.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Proven ability to identify and assess musical talent with commercial and critical potential.
- Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of working independently.
- Valid UK driving license and willingness to travel frequently within the region for events.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Music Business, Media, Communications, or a related field.
- Established personal network within the Oxford music community.
- Experience with music analytics tools or platforms.
- Previous experience contributing to music publications or blogs.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary with opportunities for growth.
- Flexible working arrangements and autonomy.
- Access to exclusive gigs, festivals, and industry events.
- Opportunity to make a significant impact on the local music scene and emerging artists.
- Collaborative and passionate work environment.
- Professional development opportunities and mentorship.
How to Apply
To apply for this exciting opportunity, please click on the application link below to submit your CV and a compelling cover letter outlining your passion for music, your experience in talent scouting, and why you are the ideal candidate for Nightshift Magazine. Please highlight any specific artists you have discovered or championed. We look forward to hearing from you!