A leading regional publisher is creating a new role with a specific remit to expand the use of AI technology – including using it to create local content.

Newsquest is recruiting an AI-Powered Reporter who they say will be “at the forefront of a new era in journalism.”

The job description for the role includes utilizing AI technology to create national, local, and hyper-local content, and helping to help integrate AI-generated content into the publisher’s newsrooms.

But amid union concerns about the potential impact of AI, Newsquest bosses have insisted that far from replacing their roles, AI will bring “significant benefits” for journalists.

Editorial development director Toby Granville said: “AI technology opens up new possibilities for newsrooms, helping them win back time to focus on what they do best – face to face journalism which can never be replaced by robots.

“By introducing these innovative tools, Newsquest aims to empower its journalists to concentrate on delivering the best local news for readers, utilising AI to enhance efficiency and accuracy while allowing reporters to focus on the essential human touch in journalism.”

The project to integrate AI into Newsquest newsrooms is being led by Jody Doherty-Cove, pictured, the company’s special projects editor who the new AI powered reporter will report into.

He said: “The journey to incorporate AI into our newsroom began almost a year ago, and we’ve already seen significant benefits for our journalists since the beginning of this year.

“A considerable amount of work has been devoted to ensuring that AI serves as a valuable asset to our team, including the introduction of a ground-breaking AI-powered reporter role working alongside Newsquest’s talented team of journalists.

“The AI-powered reporter will play a crucial role in maximising the efficiency and impact of the company’s reporting, while ensuring the highest standards of journalistic integrity.”

The new role will also entail training other reporters in the use of AI technology to “improve” content.

The job description concludes: “This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about journalism and the potential for AI to transform the way we produce and consume news, without losing sight of the importance of quality reporting and writing.”