The Mail & Guardian Online is looking for a politics and court reporter. This is a junior to mid-level post that will report to the online deputy editor.
Purpose: To provide hard news and features.
- Break news stories focusing on South African politics and high-profile court cases
Write five to seven news pieces a week relating to the beat
Create accessible timelines, round-ups and “dummy’s guides” to complex stories
Write features and analysis where necessary
Track the latest developments in the beat
Create and pitch story ideas at daily diary meetings
Be able to work flexible hours, including weekends
Assist in the production of multimedia content where necessary
Interact with readers through comments, and maintain a strong online presence
Build contacts in your beat
Work with newspaper reporters to coordinate coverage of key news events
Articles
- To be thoroughly researched, fairly reported, accurate and of a high standard
To explore beyond the immediately apparent or accepted version of events
To expose the abuse of power
To include major breaks that have an influence on the national discourse
Qualifications and experience
Required:
- Appropriate post-matric qualification
At least two years’ experience as a reporter
Excellent understanding of South Africa’s political scene
Must be willing to travel
Beneficial:
Experience of court or political reporting
A valid driver’s licence
Characteristics and competencies
- Great attention to detail
Self motivated and passionate
A highly effective communicator — both verbally and in writing
Works well under pressure
A confident individual, unafraid of enforcing deadlines
A team player
Applications should be addressed to Rowena Montsho
Email address: hrofficer@mg.co.za
Closing date: April 18 2011
Only shortlisted applicants who meet the criteria will be contacted. If you have not received a response within 14 days of closing of the advert, please accept that your application was not successful.
