Job description

Applications are invited for the above-indicated vacancy within Newzroom Afrika. The incumbent will report to the Managing Editor Output.

The bulletin editor/desk reporter is a key member of the output desk and is responsible for ensuring that the newsgathering process is conducted in a timely, accurate and engaging manner. This is a dual role working under the leadership of the news editor as well as the managing editor: output to create news stories that set Newzroom Afrika apart from other broadcasters in South Africa and beyond.

Key responsibilities:

• Write strong fresh up to date news bulletins which accurately reflect the local and international news cycle
• Quick turn-around of interviews conducted on air and crawlers for daily broadcasts
• Ability to identify strong story angles and write up for on air quickly
• Write accurate scripts which adhere to the channel’s editorial policy and style guide.
• Contribute to the daily diary through VOBs, Vos, PCLs, PKGs
• Write strong, punchy packages for on air
• Provide a summary of bytes where unable to transcribe soundbites
• Writing scripts for on-air bulletins, cutting visuals using a newsroom production system
• Check archives for appropriate visuals accompanying the stories
• Ensure a diverse of voices are represented in stories
• Research topics and provide input on angles for the day’s news coverage as well as advance diaries
• Scan international wires and identify stories in consultation with the editor on duty or executive producer
• Meet deadlines set daily
• Work closely with news editor/editor on duty to set the editorial direction of news bulletins
• Develop and refresh story angles
• Liaise with desk and field reporters for content generation
• Build news bulletins; set tone and pace
• Ensure that all copy is accurate, factual and adheres to Newzroom Afrika’s Editorial Policy and Style Guide
• Write strong straps that are constantly updated to ensure the channel is fresh and engaging
• Ensure all stories in all bulletins are always taken forward
• Always ensure fresh bulletins
• Generate crawlers/ticker/straps/breaking news that are relevant in the news cycle and ensure that crawlers are accurate and update every two hours 
• Maintain the highest standard of spelling and grammar
• Maintain good communication between Managing Editor: Output, Managing Editor: Input, News Editor, Assignments and the Output Desks
• Strong sense of ethics and understanding of editorial independence
• Provide regular updates to the Output Diary by constantly updating the news cycle
• Develop a firm understanding of Newzroom Afrika’s disciplinary and leave policies

Requirements

• Experience writing in radio/TV
• Four years’ experience in journalism
• Three-year tertiary qualification in journalism or similar field
• Knowledge of newsroom production systems and workflows
• Good grasp of English and other South African official languages
• Must be prepared to work shift hours, including early morning and late evening
• Team player with a passion for news and current affairs

Posted on 05 Nov 16:09