Job description

The business news reporter/producer is a key member of the Input/Output Desk, which is responsible for ensuring that the newsgathering process is conducted in a timely, accurate and engaging manner.  Under the leadership of the business editor, the incumbent will shape and create business news stories that set Newzroom Afrika apart from other broadcasters in South Africa and beyond. The successful candidate will be responsible for the quick turn-around of interviews conducted on the channel, monitoring breaking news and contributing to the diary generation, amongst other responsibilities.

• Working under the direction of the executive producer/business news editor
• Monitor business news feeds, including searching social media and engaging with reporters, to gather and evaluate relevant news and information
• Write accurate scripts which adhere to the channel’s editorial policy and style guide
• Curate submissions from citizen journalists
• Writing scripts for on-air talent, cutting visuals using a newsroom production system, finding guests, commissioning and writing graphics and other related tasks as required
• Develop innovative ideas for writing business news. Stay updated with the latest business news and events.
• Research business stories and prepare interview questions as required.
• Seek out and set up interviews with people who have information on each story.
• Discuss and develop ideas to write strong and sophisticated stories to attract citizens/viewers.
• Research, write and submit stories within established timelines.
• Conduct in-studio interviews with business newsmakers.
• Go out on stories, media briefings etc. and conduct live crossings.
• Write breaking news and business stories in unique and interesting ways to increase viewership.
• Write real and accurate stories so as to avoid any defamation cases.
• Analyze the information gathered to determine which facts are pertinent to the story. Build and maintain a strong relationship with news contacts.
• Work with editors, graphic artists, and social media team to find interesting ways to tell business stories.
• Make sure all parcels and packages have been sub-edited before editing.
• Make sure all stories have been through quality control before going on air.
• Compile and coordinate the diary for the business team, including assigned field stories, desk VOs
• Advise research team and programmes on guests that should be booked relating to business stories
• Advise research team and programmes on guests that should be booked relating to business stories
• Oversee content for Newzroom Afrika’s business programmes
• Brief reporters and producers on angling of Business stories and investigations
• Provide guidance to desk staff on coverage on stories relating to the economy, business and state-owned entities
•  Maintain relationship with economists, commentators and regular contributors in the Business sector
• Be aware of legal issues relating to sensitive news stories and have a firm understanding of the BCCSA Code of Conduct and the Press Code
• Ensure Newzroom Afrika’s editorial guidelines, style guide and company policies are adhered to by staff who report to you
• Work with the Output Editor, News Editor and Input team to ensure live crossings, story deadlines and other key information is effectively communicated to all team members
• Ensure that forward planning is done timeously and maintain an events calendar
• Ensure diary contains a balance of events and unique stories to set Newzroom Afrika apart from competitors
• Play a mentorship role to young team members
• Ensure deployment for breaking news stories is done efficiently
• Secure regular exclusive interviews with heavyweights in the business industry across a variety of programmes on Newzroom Afrika
• Check reporter scripts for language, content and accuracy

Requirements

• Minimum of five years’ experience in television news and production
•  Strong sense of ethics and understanding of editorial independence and ethics
• Relevant journalism or media qualification
• Knowledge of newsroom production systems and workflows
• Good grasp of English and other South African official languages
• Must be prepared to work shift hours, including early morning and late evening
• Team player with a passion for general news, business news and current affairs
• Contacts base in various sectors
• Excellent knowledge of South African and global issues
• Understanding of the Broadcasting Complaints Commission’s code of conduct
• Good understanding of legal and ethical issues with regards to television broadcasts