General News Journalist - Johannesburg at Media24 (Pty) Ltd

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Investigate and research original content and ideas for news, feature and analysis stories;
• Write quality news and feature articles, adhering to strict deadlines and News24’s style;
• Break developing events and original reportage;
• Create target-market-specific articles and multi-media content;
• Generate ideas for news and features stories on a daily basis;
• Adhere to the quality, style and content standards as laid out and required by the particular publication;
• Comply with the requirements of the South African Press Code;
• May be required to assist and support freelance staff and junior permanent staff;
• Proofread articles;
• Generate and liaise with network of contacts to assist with research or completion of articles/features;
• Will be required to take photographs and shoot video;
• Live tweet stories from location as they unfold;
• Secure newsmakers for in-depth interviews on topical issues.

Skills & Competencies:

• Proficient in relevant computer software packages and application;
• Passion for media, knowledge of current affairs;
• Established network of contacts (over and above official spokespersons);
• Strong command of English;
• Creativity;
• Able to work under extreme pressure and to strict deadlines;
• Good time management, the ability to multitask effectively and complete tasks timeously;
• Sound news judgement;
• Knowledge of the online news environment and digital publishing tools, including mobile video and photos;
• Knowledge of social media;
• Detail orientation;
• Good people skills;
• Quality orientation and the ability to deliver clean copy;
• Good decision-making abilities;
• Persistence and results orientated;
• Strong questioning and listening skills;
• The ability to work independently;
• Resilient.

Minimum Requirements: 

• Diploma or degree in journalism, languages, politics or media studies;
• Experience writing for a mainstream newspaper or magazine or reporting for an online or wire news operation or a broadcast news service;
• At least 6 years’ experience;
• Preferred would be some experience in producing multi-media content;
• Good general knowledge;
• Insightful knowledge of South Africa’s socio-political landscape;
• Knowledge of topical issues and current affairs;
• Demonstrable network of contacts;
• Valid driver’s licence.