The Political Editor (assistant editor) is responsible for setting the agenda for News24's daily coverage of South African politics, seven days a week. The ideal candidate has excellent political judgment and the proven ability to work in a digital, fast-paced newsroom to produce exclusive content.
Duties and responsibilities
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Oversee, compile, and manage the politics diary daily.
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Manage a team of deputy political editors and political reporters in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
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Liaise regularly with the head of news and visual director to plan and coordinate diaries.
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Identify the key stories of the day and week to produce consistent and excellent news stories, seven days a week.
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Adhere to deadlines and publishing schedules to position News24 as the most trusted title in politics.
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Contribute to the writing of exclusive news reports.
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Publish a weekly politics column that is well-written and informative. Record podcasts and videos.
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Commission video and audio content weekly.
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Build up and maintain a network of local and national contacts.
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Attend political meetings, gatherings and briefings with political role-players.
Skills and competencies
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The proven ability to manage a team under pressure with daily deadlines and a demanding news cycle.
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The ability to set the political agenda with exclusive and in-depth coverage of South African politics.
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To prioritise big stories of the day and week with the team in a variety of digital formats.
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A thorough understanding of South Africa's three political tiers and how they operate - local, provincial and national.
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Analytical thinking to produce insightful columns, podcasts and video analyses weekly.
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Sound news judgment.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including in front of the camera and behind the microphone.
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A team player who liaises regularly with fellow editors.
Minimum requirements
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At least ten years' experience as a political journalist or editor in a digital or broadcast newsroom.
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A relevant tertiary qualification.
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Proven experience as a political writer or broadcaster with the ability to produce insightful and exclusive stories.
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Proven experience in digital publishing, including reacting to breaking news events.
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A proven network of political contacts.
Given the employment equity policy of Media24, preference will be given to suitable candidates from the designated groups.
