News Editor

Remuneration:	negotiable cost-to-company
Location:	Roodepoort, Industria West
Education level:	Degree
Job level:	Senior
Own transport required:	Yes
Travel requirement:	Occasional
Type:	Permanent
Company:	The Citizen

An exciting opportunity for a go-getter with an excellent sense for news exists as a News Editor in The Citizen’s editorial department, for the newspaper.

The ideal candidate will have the opportunity to be at the forefront of daily news gathering and production in South Africa.

This is a dynamic position which requires someone with a passion for breaking news and managing an energetic news desk.

Main Responsibilities:

• Quickly identify, assign and publish news stories.
• Manage journalists, their news diaries and training.
• Attend general news meetings and update news diary daily.
• Compile and organise a running diary for future events.
• Generate original story ideas.
• Work closely with journalists to develop stories.
• Ensure that news articles from the department are accurate and drive editorial excellence.
• Mentor and train journalists and interns in order to produce outstanding copy.
• Ensure deadlines are met.
• Line edit stories in order to identify problems such as libel or inaccuracy and to ensure complete fairness.
• Ensure smooth operation of the news desk, making sure problems are identified early and dealt with promptly and in a positive manner.
• Liaise with editors, journalists, production and bureaus.
• Monitor electronic news, other newspapers and the wires to ensure that topical stories are being picked up on.
• Assist in recruiting journalists.
• Ensure all sources in the assigned beat areas are regularly covered.
• To liaise with photographic department to ensure visual elements of stories.
• Liaise with the digital department to promote digital story-telling.
• Drive best digital and social media practices to create engaging content.

Knowledge/experience

• Matric/Grade 12 qualification or SAQA Accredited Equivalent
• An appropriate bachelor’s or higher degree in Journalism
• Minimum 8 years’ experience in mainstream journalism in a national newsroom, with a proven track record in hard news gathering.
• Suitable experience managing a news desk / team of reporters
• Good talent for writing and copy tasting abilities
• Advanced awareness of the media law and current trends.

Attitude

• Ability to work under pressure
• Self-motivated
• Deadline driven
• Team player

Other requirements

• Valid drivers licence
• Own vehicle
• Solid references
• No criminal record

Posted on 11 Jun 16:11, Closing date 31 Jul