The Citizen is looking for a Digital News Editor

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

This is a dynamic position which needs someone with a passion for breaking news.

Main Responsibilities:

• Assign stories to the digital reporters and content administrators and check that they are delivering the news stories.
• Edit and rewrite reporters’ copy and also produce/write digital stories.
• Gather news by monitoring the wires and other media to ensure that topical stories are being picked up on.
• Generate story ideas.
• Check accuracy of articles by reporters and content administrators.
• Attend general news meetings and update news diary daily.
• Coordinate news flow by ensuring relevant stories discussed during the morning meeting are covered and uploaded according to deadlines.
• Ensure that news articles from the print and digital departments gets shared.
• Line edit stories in order to identify problems such as libel or inaccuracy and to ensure complete fairness.
• Liaise with photographic department to ensure visual elements of stories.
• Liaise with fellow editors, reporters, production desk, bureaus and senior editors.
• Mentor and train content administrators and interns in order to produce outstanding copy.
• Assist in hiring staff.
• Drive the social media strategy.

Core Competencies:

Knowledge/Experience

• An appropriate bachelor’s or higher degree in Journalism
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in mainstream journalism
• 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
• Proven track record

Skills

• Excellent communication skills
• Good computer skills
• Excellent people management skills
• Excellent organizational skills
• Good administrative skills

Attitude

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

Other requirements:

• Matric/Grade 12 qualification or SAQA Accredited Equivalent a must
• Valid driver’s licence a must
• Own vehicle a must
• Ability to work irregular hours
• Solid references
• No criminal record

Preference will be given to individuals who will add to the diversity of the organization.

Suitable CV’s to be sent to hr@citizen.co.za using Digital News Editor as the Subject line;

Closing date for applications:  12 December 2017.

Should you not receive feedback 3 weeks after closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

The Citizen reserves the right to not fill the position.