Digital News Editor

Job description

• Quickly identify, assign and publish news stories.
• Work closely with content producers and journalists to develop stories.
• Drive best digital and social media practices to create engaging content.
• Monitor audience metrics and adapt content to increase users and maximize engagement.
• 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 are shared effectively on social media.
• 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.

• An appropriate bachelor’s or higher degree in Journalism or appropriate work experience.
• Minimum eight years’ experience in mainstream journalism, with a proven track record in hard news gathering and digital newsroom experience.
• 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

• Good news gathering skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Good computer skills
• Excellent people management skills
• Excellent organisational skills
• Good administrative skills 

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

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