General news reporter

Main purpose:

To produce relevant, exclusive and factually correct articles and analysis for News24 and its national audience on news developments in the Western Cape.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Produce original articles on municipal, court, health, education and other relevant news developments for news, feature and analysis stories;
• Report on breaking news stories within the province;
• Write quality news and feature articles, adhering to strict deadlines and News24’s style;
• Adhere to the quality, style and content standards as laid out and required by the particular publication
• Live reporting into News24 live blogs on developing stories;
• Secure newsmakers for in-depth interviews on topical issues.

Skills & Competencies:

• Established network of contacts;
• Strong command of English;
• Able to work under 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;
• Detail orientation;
• Good people skills;
• Quality orientation and the ability to deliver clean copy, and
• Understanding of the SA Press Code and adherence to our code of ethics.

Minimum Requirements:

• Relevant tertiary qualification;
• At least 5 years’ journalism experience;
• Excellent general knowledge;
• Strong knowledge of topical issues and current affairs;
• Demonstrable network of contacts;
• Valid driver’s licence.

Given the employment equity policy of Media24, preference will be given to suitable candidates from the designated groups.