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SOUTH AFRICAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION (SABC)

POSITION: REPORTERS: POLITICAL DESK (X2 – JOHANNESBURG)
DIVISION: SABC NEWS & CURRENT AFFAIRS
REPORTING LINE: POLITICAL EDITOR
POSITION ID: 60002261 & 60001941
SCALE CODE: 300
 
 
Main Purpose of the Position:
To ensure solid, thorough, objective, credible, authoritative, fair, balanced, insightful and engaging political journalism.
 
Key Accountabilities:
  • Identify, initiate and produce top-class political stories in different formats and genres for all SABC News’ Radio, TV and Digital platforms in English and at least one other official South African language;
  • Plan, organise and execute own-initiated and assigned stories ahead of time, daily and for special coverage;
  • Set the political journalism agenda by breaking political news stories, following-up on leads and also providing in-depth coverage;
  • Produce stories using mobile-journalism techniques and available/new technology;
  • Develop and maintain credible and diverse news contacts and sources;
  • Have an excellent knowledge and understanding of the broad political landscape, including the executive, legislature, judiciary, civil society, the citizenry and key socio-economic conditions;
  • Regularly re-angle news stories to maximise information gathered for SABC News’ different outlets;
  • Arrange and conduct interviews with relevant news-makers and also do live Q&As;
  • Meet all the required deadlines;
  • Adhere to the Constitution, all relevant legislation, Icasa’s licence conditions and regulations, the BCCSA/Press codes and findings, SABC News’ editorial policy, News’ Style-Guides and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
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Requirements:
  • A degree in journalism, political studies or any other relevant field of study;
  • At least 7 years’ experience as a proven political journalist with a strong track record of also having produced editorial content on digital media platforms;
  • A portfolio of newscasts and/or published articles;
  • A strong news sense and judgement, as well as a broad general knowledge;
  • Excellent command of written and spoken English and at least one other official South African language;
  • A good, strong and clear broadcasting voice;
  • Creative, but credible story treatment and effective storytelling skills;
  • Excellent critical-thinking and analytical skills;
  • A good understanding of the media, journalism, broadcast and digital environment;
  • Computer literacy is essential (MS Word, Excel, Outlook and broadcasting/digital tools of the trade);
  • A professional, trusted and active social media presence and engagement;
  • A valid drivers’ licence and passport;
  • A self-motivated individual who is committed, hardworking and enthusiastic;
  • The ability to work under pressure, long and irregular hours, and complete tasks; and
  • Be willing to travel.
 
CLOSING DATE: 28 OCTOBER 2019