Vacancies at BBC Media Action

Main Responsibilities

• The Senior Journalist (SJ) has a crucial part to play on the Newsday team. They will have daily editorial responsibility for ensuring the programme is covering the right stories in the best possible way. They will ensure they support and advise the Journalists on the team to achieve the desired impact on air, on digital and around the BBC. They will ensure effective communication and co-ordination between the Newsday teams in London and Nairobi as well as liaise with Newsday colleagues based in London on a daily basis. The SJ will be editorially curious and creative and will deputize for the Assistant Editor whenever necessary. 

Are you the right candidate?

• The ability to write in English creatively, clearly and concisely in an engaging manner, which is suitable for broadcast on Newsday, as well as for digital content and BBC News online 
• A track record of delivering quality journalism that creates impact and engagement 
• Editorial knowledge to know the right guests for a story and how to get them onto the programme
• A good understanding of the kind of audiences being targeted by the World Service, including how to engage with younger listeners; and women audiences
• Strong demonstrable knowledge of international news and current affairs, including an understanding of the stories and issues that will be most relevant to our biggest audience in Africa. Know how to explain global stories to our audience in Africa
• Demonstrable evidence of inspiring strong journalism, making headlines through original stories and interviews. Experience and evidence of creative story-telling and innovative production techniques
• The ability to create digital assets using audio, video or stills - including how to share stories with the widest possible audiences through social media
• Experience of working in a live radio or broadcast environment is desirable
• Demonstrable evidence of effective editorial leadership; being a team player, leading on change, is willing to collaborate and be supportive towards colleagues and other business partners
• Evidence of demonstrating the BBC Values in their work
• To build and maintain diverse contact lists; compile and distribute information with other members of the team
• Seeks ways to increase diversity within a workforce and ensures output reflects the audiences we serve
   

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Main Responsibilities

• To present the Focus on Africa radio program and visualized podcast, delivering news, interviews, and features with authority, clarity, and engaging storytelling
• To prepare thoroughly for each broadcast by conducting in-depth research on current events, relevant issues, and guest profiles to foster informed discussions
• To engage with audiences through live interactions, doing social lives, creating a dynamic and participatory experience
• To conduct exclusive interviews with key figures, including politicians, experts, and influential leaders from across Africa, facilitating meaningful dialogue on pressing topics
• To collaborate closely with the editorial team to ensure the selection of relevant stories and segments that align with audience interests and program objectives
• To provide insights and analysis to enhance storytelling, translating complex issues into relatable narratives for a diverse audience
• To represent BBC Focus on Africa at public events, conferences, and media appearances, reinforcing the program’s visibility and credibility in the landscape of African journalism
• To contribute to the development and promotion of podcast content, identifying emerging trends and relevant topics to engage a wider audience
• To maintain a strong online presence, promoting episodes through personal and program social media channels, and engaging with followers to build the program's community
• To provide mentorship and guidance to junior presenters and producers, fostering a collaborative and creative atmosphere within the team
• To foster a culture of creativity and innovation within the team and to encourage the exploration of new formats and technologies, enhancing audience interaction and participation
• To liaise closely with other team members and with other departments in the BBC, to ensure that output material is distributed, duplication is avoided, and best practice is upheld
• To build and maintain diverse contact lists; compile and distribute information with other members of the team

Are you the right candidate?

• A high-profile presence in African journalism, with a well-established reputation and credibility in the field
• Track record of conducting exclusive and agenda-setting interviews in English with top names in African politics, economics, entertainment and sports, capable of drawing insightful responses from a diverse range of guests, including public figures and subject matter experts
• Strong on-air presence and the ability to engage audiences with charisma and authority 
• Significant experience in broadcast journalism, especially in radio or podcasting, with a proven track record of presenting news or current affairs programs. Experience of TV presentation will be a distinctive advantage 
• Excellent spoken communication skills in English, including clarity, articulation, and the ability to convey complex ideas simply
• Ability to write creatively in English in an engaging manner as well as the ability to adapt material with accuracy, clarity and a style appropriate to differing audiences and forms of media
• Strong research abilities to prepare for broadcasts, with the capability to analyze and distill complex information for audience consumption
• An understanding of and respect for diverse cultural perspectives, enabling thoughtful engagement with various community topics and issues
• Experience and understanding of digital video output and engaging with audience on social platforms
• Deep understanding of the socio-political landscape of African countries and the ability to communicate these nuances effectively to a global audience
• Track record of dealing with complex legal and editorial policy issues 

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Main Responsibilities

• To support the News Editor in leading the editorial vision of Focus on Africa, ensuring that all content reflects the multifaceted nature of Africa and resonates with our diverse audience
• To ensure the editorial teams meet deadlines while maintaining high journalistic standards and responding promptly to breaking news
• To collaborate with reporters, producers, and correspondents in Africa and beyond to identify and cover compelling stories that resonate with both local and international audiences
• To oversee the research process, from story conception to final production, ensuring thorough fact-checking and editorial oversight
• To support the News Editor in spearheading the integration of digital media into our storytelling approach. Utilize digital platforms to engage younger audiences and expand our reach. You will analyze audience data to inform editorial decisions and optimize content performance
• To foster a culture of creativity and innovation within the team and to encourage the exploration of new formats and technologies, enhancing audience interaction and participation
• To mentor and inspire journalists and editors within the team, fostering their professional growth and enhancing their storytelling skills. Provide constructive feedback and support a collaborative work environment that values diverse perspectives
• To deputize the News Editor whenever necessary 
• To seek ways to increase diversity in our workforce and to ensure that our output reflects the audiences we serve
• To be a key link between production operations and technical operations in the everyday business and evolving ambitions of the TV and radio/podcast output
• To find economies of scale in the usage of central BBC material

Are you the right candidate?

• Considerable recent experience of editorial leadership in live television and radio news, with focus on African news  
• Demonstrable recent experience of launching new programs or podcasts that has led to growth in reach and reputation across platforms
• Experience of exercising editorial oversight of scripts in English and the ability to write creatively in English in an engaging manner as well as the ability to adapt material with accuracy, clarity and a style appropriate to differing audiences and forms of media
• Proven experience in breaking news stories as well as producing features, investigations and original journalism about the whole African continent 
• Proven record of championing diversity and inclusion within the team and output
• Experience and understanding of digital video output and engaging with audience on social platforms
• Deep understanding of the socio-political landscape of African countries and the ability to communicate these nuances effectively to a global audience
• Thorough and demonstrable knowledge of TV and video and audio editing workflows
• Proficiency in the use of digital and social media platforms for news dissemination and audience engagement
• Proven track record of innovation and collaboration and effective interdepartmental communication
• Proven recent experience in leading teams located in different locations
• Proven experience in managing high level stake holders
• Track record of dealing with complex legal and editorial policy issues including editorial
• complaints and compliance processes

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Main Responsibilities

• To shoot and edit high-quality video segments for broadcast and digital platforms, ensuring content is visually engaging and adheres to BBC standards. Ensure content is informative, accurate, and engaging, reflecting the diversity of our audience’s experiences and perspectives
• To use appropriate video equipment and technology to capture footage, conduct interviews, and create compelling visuals
• To provide voiceovers for video segments when necessary, ensuring a strong narrative voice that enhances the visual content
• To collaborate with the graphic design and digital teams to create visually appealing web content, social media clips, and promotional materials
• To write clear, concise, and engaging scripts for video reports, ensuring all information is accurate and effectively communicates the intended story
• To attend events, press conferences, and breaking news situations to gather firsthand information and visual documentation
• To present news stories, reports, and features live on air for both visualized radio/podcast and digital video. This includes adapting style and tone to suit different formats and audiences
• To utilize social media to promote video content, engage with audiences, and gather feedback on stories
• To ensure that BBC Editorial principles and all relevant legal, contractual and copyright requirements are met, referring upwards in cases of difficulty or doubt
• To work closely with editorial colleagues, producers, and field reporters to develop and execute story ideas. Participate in team discussions and contribute to the overall editorial direction of Focus on Africa
• To maintain up-to-date knowledge of current affairs, cultural happenings, and developments within Africa and beyond. Analyze trends and issues impacting the continent in order to produce timely and relevant news
• To oversee the digital presence of BBC Great Lakes, including social media platforms 
• To coordinate with other BBC departments and international bureaus to source stories, enhance coverage, and collaborate on cross-platform features
• To build and maintain relationships with correspondents and contributors as needed
• To build and maintain diverse contact lists; compile and distribute information with other members of the team

Are you the right candidate?

• Exceptional writing, editing, and communication skills in Kinyarwanda, Kirundi and English are all essential 
• Demonstrable experience of producing original short and mid-form videos that have been impactful and reached new audiences and knowledge of social media best practice  
• Strong storytelling skills, with the ability to translate complex issues into compelling video narratives
• In-depth knowledge of the news agenda across the Great Lakes region and its diaspora; ability to spot an interesting, shareable story - and generate eye-catching headlines and content to go with it
• Excellent communication and interviewing skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse subjects and audiences
• Track record of creativity in the use of pictures, graphics and audio to illustrate and explain fast-moving events and complex stories
• Experience of working under pressure and meeting tight deadlines. A self-starting individual – you will be able to come up with ideas, get them commissioned made and delivered efficiently
• Strong working knowledge of the data and analytics tools available and demonstrable evidence of using them effectively
• Strong research abilities to prepare for broadcasts, with the capability to analyze and distil complex information for audience consumption
• An understanding of and respect for diverse cultural perspectives, enabling thoughtful engagement with various community topics and issues

go to method of application »

Main Responsibilities

• To lead the editorial vision of Focus on Africa, ensuring that all content reflects the multifaceted nature of Africa and resonates with our diverse audience. You will set high editorial standards and provide creative direction
• To ensure the editorial teams meet deadlines while maintaining high journalistic standards and responding promptly to breaking news
• To collaborate with reporters, producers, and correspondents in Africa and beyond to identify and cover compelling stories that resonate with both local and international audiences
• To oversee the research process, from story conception to final production, ensuring thorough fact-checking and editorial oversight
• To spearhead the integration of digital media into our storytelling approach. Utilize digital platforms to engage younger audiences and expand our reach. You will analyze audience data to inform editorial decisions and optimize content performance
• To foster a culture of creativity and innovation within the team and to encourage the exploration of new formats and technologies, enhancing audience interaction and participation. You will be responsible for piloting new ideas and measuring their impact
• To mentor and inspire journalists and editors within the team, fostering their professional growth and enhancing their storytelling skills. Provide constructive feedback and support a collaborative work environment that values diverse perspectives
• To work closely with other departments, including Production, Business Development, Marketing, and digital teams to create cohesive content strategies that align with the BBC's overall mission. Build relationships with external contributors, experts, and influencers to enrich our storytelling
• To seek ways to increase diversity in our workforce and to ensure that our output reflects the audiences we serve
• To be a key link between production operations and technical operations in the everyday business and evolving ambitions of the TV and radio/podcast output
• To manage the budget for the Focus on Africa program, ensuring efficient allocation of resources, and adhering to financial controls
• To find economies of scale in the usage of central BBC material

Are you the right candidate?

• Exceptional writing, editing, and communication English skills, with proficiency in multiple African languages being a distinct advantage 
• Recent track record in leading content production and output (TV, radio and digital) at a senior level, with focus on African news  
• Demonstrable recent experience of launching new programs or podcasts that has led to growth in reach and reputation across platforms
• Proven ability to think strategically and describe the concept in a way which motivates others towards that goal – able to convert long term aims into short and medium term goals
• Proven experience in breaking news stories as well as producing features, investigations and original journalism about the whole African continent 
• Strong editorial judgment and the ability to quickly identify and develop impactful stories that reflect complex issues and diverse perspectives
• Proven record of championing diversity and inclusion within the team and output
• Deep understanding of the socio-political landscape of African countries and the ability to communicate these nuances effectively to a global audience
• Thorough and demonstrable knowledge of TV and video and audio editing workflows
• Proficiency in the use of digital and social media platforms for news dissemination and audience engagement
• Proven track record of innovation and collaboration and effective interdepartmental communication
• Proven recent experience in leading large teams located in different locations
• Proven experience in managing high level stake holders
• Track record of dealing with complex legal and editorial policy issues including editorial complaints and compliance processes
   

go to method of application »

Main Responsibilities

• Research, pitch, and produce compelling news stories and features tailored for TV and radio/podcast broadcasts. Ensure content is informative, accurate, and engaging, reflecting the diversity of African experiences and perspectives
• Conduct interviews and gather information from various sources, including government officials, community leaders, and ordinary citizens
• To present news stories, reports, and features live on air for both radio/podcast and television. This includes adapting style and tone to suit different formats and audiences
• To ensure that BBC Editorial principles and all relevant legal, contractual and copyright requirements are met, referring upwards in cases of difficulty or doubt
• To work closely with editorial colleagues, producers, and field reporters to develop and execute story ideas. Participate in team discussions and contribute to the overall editorial direction of Focus on Africa
• To maintain up-to-date knowledge of current affairs, cultural happenings, and developments within Africa and beyond. Analyze trends and issues impacting the continent in order to produce timely and relevant news
• To oversee the digital presence of Focus on Africa, including social media platforms  
• To coordinate with other BBC departments and international bureaus to source stories, enhance coverage, and collaborate on cross-platform features
• To build and maintain relationships with correspondents and contributors as needed
• To foster a culture of creativity and innovation within the team and to encourage the exploration of new formats and technologies, enhancing audience interaction and participation
• To build and maintain diverse contact lists; compile and distribute information with other members of the team

Are you the right candidate?

• Demonstrable experience of producing original content that has been impactful and reached new audiences with knowledge of social media best practice
• Proven ability to work independently, or collaboratively as required, on original journalism for underserved audiences across a range of specialisms
• In-depth knowledge of the news agenda across the African continent and its diaspora; ability to spot an interesting, shareable story - and generate eye-catching headlines and content to go with it
• Ability to find interesting, alternative angles on established/on-going stories that dominate the news agenda
• Track record of creativity in the use of pictures, graphics and audio to illustrate and explain fast-moving events and complex stories
• Experience of working under pressure and meeting tight deadlines. A self-starting individual – you will be able to come up with ideas, get them commissioned made and delivered efficiently
• Strong verbal communication skills in English, with the confidence to present on camera and on air
• Ability to write creatively in English in an engaging manner as well as the ability to adapt material with accuracy, clarity and a style appropriate to differing audiences and forms of media
• Strong working knowledge of the data and analytics tools available and demonstrable evidence of using them effectively
• Strong research abilities to prepare for broadcasts, with the capability to analyse and distil complex information for audience consumption
• An understanding of and respect for diverse cultural perspectives, enabling thoughtful engagement with various community topics and issues
• Experience of planning and delivering international shoots – both in-person and remotely is advantageous 

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Main Responsibilities

• Present in a style and tone in line with the programme’s ambitions and the audience demands
• Present the programme live, unscripted when required; make on the spot editorial decisions and and handle global breaking news with authority
• Build effective on-air relationships with your fellow presenters in studios in London and Singapore, and work as part of a team
• Conduct live interviews, sometimes unexpected and with no time for preparation, but always able to hold guests to account, when necessary
• Present the programme on location (OBs), when required
• A willingness to develop the programme; and ideas for innovation and ways to further promote the programme through digital opportunities
• A willingness to receive and act upon feedback
• A willingness to support colleagues with feedback and create a positive team atmosphere
• The willingness to work flexibly, depending on the needs of the programme
• Be an ambassador for the programme, both inside and outside the BBC
• An understanding of and commitment to BBC values.  A comprehensive knowledge of the law and BBC producer guidelines as it applies to your work as a journalist and the ability to ensure that others in your team do the same

Are you the right candidate?

• You will have a strong command of spoken and written English
• An understanding and demonstrable experience of the target audience, particularly in Africa; and the knowledge to see the world from the perspective of Africa
• A great communicator, calm and confident and able to understand and present several complex global topics and issues in an accessible and engaging way; often at short notice; sometimes with no notice
• Comfortable and confident when dealing with breaking news in a live radio broadcast environment 
• Engaging on-air personality with the ability to build strong relationships with your fellow presenters in other studios around the world, as well as the audience, is essential
• Deep knowledge of international news which you can explain clearly to the audience; as well as the editorial expertise to explain how the issues are viewed from Africa
• Demonstrate a range of effective interview techniques, including the ability to be forensic in situations where guests maybe evasive or persist in promoting mistruths
• Have a demonstrable appetite to embrace change
• Be a team player, supporting colleagues where appropriate and helping with feedback

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Main Responsibilities

• Lead on setting up the Newsday production and presentation operation in Nairobi
• A line manager for Newsday, with senior editorial and management responsibility
• Provide on the day leadership for the journalists, senior journalists and presenters in Nairobi, supported by the Deputy Editor and Head of Journalism for the department, who are based in London. Your leadership will ensure editorial best practice across our radio, audio and digital output
• The lynchpin to ensure effective communication and co-ordination between the Newsday teams in London and Nairobi
• Know what best practice sounds like for our live output. They also know how to lead and support their team to develop and deliver digital opportunities for radio and audio; as they understand the BBC’s strategic priorities
• They instinctively take a lead on collaborating with other BBC departments, making the best use of resources to deliver editorial impact
• Demonstrate the BBC’s values in the way they manage their teams; rewarding and celebrating success, addressing performance promptly and fairly, treating team members with respect
• They ensure that the team and its output work within BBC guidelines, including on editorial, health and safety, diversity and inclusion and new ways of working

Are you the right candidate?

• Ability to write and communicate in English to a BBC broadcast standard
• Track record of senior editorial leadership, including in live news broadcasting, and ideally in radio news  
• Evidence of strong editorial decision making and leading teams to create content that makes a wider impact
• Excellent knowledge of international news and current affairs, with significant experience covering Africa
• Demonstratable understanding of global audiences, especially in Africa
• Demonstrable experience of motivating a team and creating a strong team culture; plus supporting or leading a team through change
• Demonstrable experience of delivering effective feedback, leading on staff career development and training
• Evidence of a commitment to diversity and inclusion; including developing inclusive teams
• Evidence of being able to make content work for digital, in line with BBC News strategic priorities
• Experience and ability to represent Newsday within the wider BBC at meetings, business forums, editorial reviews etc, where appropriate
   

go to method of application »

Main Responsibilities

• To Lead and oversee the planning, development, and production of engaging segments and features for BBC Great Lakes’ visualized radio and digital output, ensuring that content is relevant, accurate, and sounds compelling
• To collaborate with journalists, researchers, and contributors to identify and produce dynamic stories that reflect the experiences and concerns of our diverse audiences
• To mentor and guide staff, providing feedback and professional development opportunities to build a high-performing production team
• To ensure that all content adheres to BBC’s editorial standards and guidelines regarding accuracy, fairness, and impartiality
• To review and approve scripts before broadcast, ensuring alignment with the overall editorial strategy. To appear on air or in front of a camera whenever necessary
• To oversee the digital presence of BBC Great Lakes, including social media platforms and audience engagement initiatives and to utilize audience insights and market research to tailor content that maximizes viewer engagement and reach
• To identify new opportunities for digital expansion, utilizing analytics and audience feedback to inform strategy
• To coordinate with other BBC departments and international bureaus to source stories, enhance coverage, and collaborate on cross-platform features
• To build and maintain relationships with correspondents and contributors as needed
• To foster a culture of creativity and innovation within the team and to encourage the exploration of new formats and technologies, enhancing audience interaction and participation
• To build and maintain diverse contact lists; compile and distribute information with other members of the team
• To deputize the News Editor whenever necessary 
• To seek ways to increase diversity in our workforce and to ensure that our output reflects the audiences we serve

Are you the right candidate?

• Exceptional writing, editing, and communication skills in Kinyarwanda, Kirundi and English are all essential
• Exceptional editorial judgment and a thorough understanding of the social, political, and cultural landscapes of Great Lakes
• Demonstrable experience producing digital content that has been impactful and reached new audiences on digital platforms and knowledge of social media best practice
• Solid track record of outputting daily news bulletins, current affairs programmes or podcast as well as digital offer
• Strong experience of coping brilliantly in a breaking news environment
• Ability to manage less experienced members of the team and demonstrate strong delegation skills
• Strong research abilities to prepare for broadcasts, with the capability to analyze and distil complex information for audience consumption
• An understanding of and respect for diverse cultural perspectives, enabling thoughtful engagement with various community topics and issues
• Track record of dealing with complex legal and editorial policy issues
• Experience of filming and editing would be an advantage

go to method of application »

Main Responsibilities

• To lead the editorial vision of BBC Great Lakes, ensuring that all content reflects the multifaceted nature of our diverse audience. You will set high editorial standards for reporting without fear or favor
• To develop and implement innovative strategies to enhance audience reach and engagement, capitalizing on digital and social media platforms. You will analyze audience data to inform editorial decisions and optimize content performance
• To identify and respond to key regional issues and trends, advising on story angle and presentation
• To ensure the editorial teams meet deadlines while maintaining high journalistic standards and responding promptly to breaking news
• To collaborate with reporters, producers, and correspondents in Africa and beyond to identify and cover compelling stories that resonate with both local and diaspora audiences
• To oversee the research process, from story conception to final production, ensuring thorough fact-checking and editorial oversight
• To maintain composure during high-pressure situations, leading the team through challenges with focus and clarity
• To foster a culture of creativity and innovation within the team and to encourage the exploration of new formats and technologies, enhancing audience interaction and participation. You will be responsible for piloting new ideas and measuring their impact
• To mentor and inspire a diverse team of journalists, fostering their professional growth and enhancing their storytelling skills. Provide constructive feedback and support a collaborative work environment that values diverse perspectives
• To work closely with other departments, including Production, Business Development, Marketing, and digital teams to create cohesive content strategies that align with the BBC's overall mission. Build relationships with external contributors, experts, and influencers to enrich our storytelling
• To represent BBC Great Lakes in external forums and media events, promoting our editorial objectives and brand
• To seek ways to increase diversity in our workforce and to ensure that our output reflects the audiences we serve
• To manage the budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources, and adhering to financial controls
• To find economies of scale in the usage of central BBC material

Are you the right candidate?

• Exceptional writing, editing, and communication skills in Kinyarwanda, Kirundi and English are all essential
• Strong editorial judgment and the ability to quickly identify and develop impactful stories that reflect complex issues and diverse perspectives
• Recent track record in leading content production and output (radio and digital) at a senior level, with focus on the Great Lakes region news
• Demonstrable recent experience of launching new digital products or programs that have led to growth in reach and reputation across platforms
• Substantial knowledge of data analytics tools and how data is used to drive decision making on story choice, publication time and recirculation
• Proven ability to think strategically and describe the concept in a way which motivates others towards that goal – able to convert long term aims into short and medium term goals
• Proven experience in breaking news stories as well as producing features, investigations and original journalism about the Great Lakes region 
• Proven record of championing diversity and inclusion within the team and output
• Deep understanding of the socio-political landscape of African countries and the ability to communicate these nuances effectively to a global audience
• Thorough and demonstrable knowledge of video and audio editing workflows
• Proficiency in the use of digital and social media platforms for news dissemination and audience engagement
• Proven track record of innovation and collaboration and effective interdepartmental communication
• Proven experience in managing high level stake holders
• Track record of dealing with complex legal and editorial policy issues including editorial
• Complaints and compliance processes

go to method of application »

Main Responsibilities

• To research, pitch, and produce compelling news stories and features tailored for  radio/podcast broadcasts as well as online and social. Ensure content is informative, accurate, and engaging, reflecting the diversity of our audience’s experiences and perspectives
• To conduct interviews and gather information from various sources, including government officials, community leaders, and ordinary citizens
• To present news stories, reports, and features live on air for both visualized radio/podcast and digital video. This includes adapting style and tone to suit different formats and audiences
• To ensure that BBC Editorial principles and all relevant legal, contractual and copyright requirements are met, referring upwards in cases of difficulty or doubt
• To work closely with editorial colleagues, producers, and field reporters to develop and execute story ideas. Participate in team discussions and contribute to the overall editorial direction of Focus on Africa
• To maintain up-to-date knowledge of current affairs, cultural happenings, and developments within Africa and beyond. Analyze trends and issues impacting the continent in order to produce timely and relevant news
• To oversee the digital presence of BBC Great Lakes, including social media platforms 
• To coordinate with other BBC departments and international bureaus to source stories, enhance coverage, and collaborate on cross-platform features
• To build and maintain relationships with correspondents and contributors as needed
• To build and maintain diverse contact lists; compile and distribute information with other members of the team

Are you the right candidate?

• Exceptional writing, editing, and communication skills in Kinyarwanda, Kirundi and English are all essential
• Demonstrable experience of producing original content that has been impactful and reached new audiences and knowledge of social media best practice
• Proven ability to work independently, or collaboratively as required, on original journalism for underserved audiences across a range of specialisms
• In-depth knowledge of the news agenda across the Great Lakes region and its diaspora; ability to spot an interesting, shareable story - and generate eye-catching headlines and content to go with it
• Ability to find interesting, alternative angles on established/on-going stories that dominate the news agenda
• Track record of creativity in the use of pictures, graphics and audio to illustrate and explain fast-moving events and complex stories
• Experience of working under pressure and meeting tight deadlines. A self-starting individual – you will be able to come up with ideas, get them commissioned made and delivered efficiently
• Strong working knowledge of the data and analytics tools available and demonstrable evidence of using them effectively
• Strong research abilities to prepare for broadcasts, with the capability to analyze and distil complex information for audience consumption
• An understanding of and respect for diverse cultural perspectives, enabling thoughtful engagement with various community topics and issues
• Experience of filming and editing would be an advantage

go to method of application »

Main Responsibilities

• To Lead and oversee the planning, development, and production of engaging segments and features for Focus on Africa, ensuring that content is relevant, accurate, and visually compelling
• To collaborate with journalists, researchers, and contributors to identify and produce dynamic stories that reflect the experiences and concerns of African audiences
• To mentor and guide staff, providing feedback and professional development opportunities to build a high-performing production team
• To ensure that all content adheres to BBC’s editorial standards and guidelines regarding accuracy, fairness, and impartiality
• To review and approve scripts, video packages, and online articles before publication, ensuring alignment with the overall editorial strategy
• To oversee the digital presence of Focus on Africa, including social media platforms and audience engagement initiatives and to utilize audience insights and market research to tailor content that maximizes viewer engagement and reach
• To identify new opportunities for digital expansion, utilizing analytics and audience feedback to inform strategy
• To coordinate with other BBC departments and international bureaus to source stories, enhance coverage, and collaborate on cross-platform features
• To build and maintain relationships with correspondents and contributors as needed
• To foster a culture of creativity and innovation within the team and to encourage the exploration of new formats and technologies, enhancing audience interaction and participation
• To build and maintain diverse contact lists; compile and distribute information with other members of the team
• To deputize the Assistant Editor whenever necessary 
• To seek ways to increase diversity in our workforce and to ensure that our output reflects the audiences we serve

Are you the right candidate?

• Solid track record of outputting daily TV/audio news bulletins, current affairs programmes or podcast as well as digital and streaming offers 
• Strong experience of coping brilliantly in a breaking news environment and have a deep understanding of Africa and the world. An understanding of sport, entertainment and wider cultural life is essential 
• Exceptional editorial judgment and a thorough understanding of the social, political, and cultural landscapes of Africa
• Proficient in production technologies and techniques, with a solid understanding of digital media platforms and trends
• Demonstrable experience producing digital content that has been impactful and reached new audiences on digital platforms and knowledge of social media best practice
• The proven ability to drive collaboration with other journalists and teams
• Ability to manage less experienced members of the team and demonstrate strong delegation skills
• Excellent spoken communication skills in English, including clarity, articulation, and the ability to convey complex ideas simply
• Ability to write creatively in English in an engaging manner as well as the ability to adapt material with accuracy, clarity and a style appropriate to differing audiences and forms of media
• Strong research abilities to prepare for broadcasts, with the capability to analyze and distil complex information for audience consumption
• An understanding of and respect for diverse cultural perspectives, enabling thoughtful engagement with various community topics and issues
• Track record of dealing with complex legal and editorial policy issues
• Experience of filming would be an advantage

go to method of application »

Main Responsibilities

• The journalist has a crucial part to play on the Newsday team, working on original and forward planning stories or special programmes that make an impact on air, on digital and around the BBC. The successful candidate will have creative story ideas and treatments every day for the programme and also the other BBC platforms - and have a proven track record of delivering these. They will know the right guests for a story and how to get them onto the programme. They will have a good understanding of the kind of audiences being targeted by the World Service, including how to engage with younger listeners; and women audiences, which is a strategic priority.  

Are you the right candidate?

• The ability to write in English  creatively, clearly and concisely in an engaging manner, which is suitable for broadcast on Newsday, as well as for digital content and BBC News online
• Strong demonstrable knowledge of international news and current affairs, including an understanding of the stories and issues that will be most relevant to our biggest audience in Africa. You will know how to explain global stories to our audience in Africa
• Good evidence of finding original stories and bringing them to life with imaginative, creative story-telling and innovative production techniques 
• Demonstrable evidence of finding and delivering headline-making guests and interviews
• The ability to create digital assets using audio, video or stills - including how to share stories with the widest possible audiences through social media
• Experience of working in a live radio or broadcast environment is desirable
• Demonstrable evidence of being a strong team player and willing to collaborate with colleagues and other business partners
• Evidence of demonstrating the BBC Values in your work