Meet Alex!

He’s a writer and editorial consultant for global charities and the UN. He had a long career as a journalist for UK national papers, chiefly as a foreign correspondent and editor with the Daily Telegraph. He’s always got a cracking story to share and an absolute joy to have around. He tells us all about his career and his top tips for becoming a successful writer. 

What was your path into writing?

“I always wanted to be a journalist. After university I did an old-fashioned training on the Hendon & Finchley Times and things progressed from there.”

Who / where do you get your inspiration from?

“James Cameron’s foreign affairs columns in the Guardian, and my late mother Elizabeth, a psychoanalyst; she had a fantastic approach to work.”

What are you working on at the moment (if you’re allowed to tell us!)

“Drafting a script for a charity’s BBC Radio 4 Appeal at Christmas. And just finished editing a big report on disability and inclusive education.”

Sounds exciting! What’s your favourite thing about your job?

“The moments when you come up with some words that really work – Although it doesn’t happen that often! And the chance to explore new subjects.”

What’s been the biggest learning of your career so far?

“To stick to your principles and to what you want to do, while showing flexibility when really necessary.”

What do you like about being a member at WorkShop?

“Great space, interesting people and just the right distance from home.”

Do you have any words of wisdom for people in journalism just starting out?

“Show persistence and genuine interest in the job. And use a spell checker.”

Find Alex on LinkedIn here.