[PRESS OFFICE] Arena Africa is hiring. Our company is seeking a senior reporter at the Sowetan newspaper in Parktown, Johannesburg, reporting to the news editor.
PURPOSE OF THE JOB
To identify, investigate and write unique breaking news stories, work on multi-media packages and in-depth features for Sowetan and SowetanLIVE.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
- Consistently identify and break unique news stories that resonate with the Sowetan audience.
- Manage a personal diary of story ideas daily, taking the initiative in discovering fresh angles and untold stories.
- Write compelling and engaging news packages, utilizing data, reports, and multimedia elements to enhance storytelling.
- Thoroughly investigate leads, conducting in-depth research and interviews to produce original investigative pieces.
- Cultivate and sustain relationships with key contacts to consistently source exclusive and unique stories.
- Ensure all content aligns with the Sowetan’s style, tone, and deadlines while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and integrity.
SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES
• Exceptional Writing Ability: Able to write clearly, concisely, and engagingly across various formats and platforms.
• Work Under Pressure: Proven ability to work effectively under tight deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously without compromising quality.
• Strong Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, able to build rapport with sources and collaborate effectively with colleagues.
• Creativity and Innovation: Consistently brings fresh ideas to the table, embracing new methods of storytelling, including multimedia formats.
• Integrity and Ethics: Demonstrates unwavering integrity and professionalism, especially when handling sensitive information.
• Flexibility: Willingness to travel, work irregular hours, and adapt to the fast-paced nature of the news environment.QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE
• A relevant diploma/degree in journalism or a related field.
• 6–10 years of journalism experience in breaking news, investigative reporting, or features writing.
• A strong general knowledge base and an understanding of the news landscape.Qualified applicants may submit their CV, cover letter and two references to: mailto:mediarecruitment@arena.africa
Please indicate the job title in the subject line of your application Closing Date: 31 October 2024
Arena Holdings is an Affirmative Action Employer and as such, preference will be given to candidates who will add to the diversity of our organisation. Kindly take note that if we do not respond to you in the next two months, you may regard your application as unsuccessful.