Director of News

Our client is a conglomerate with a diverse portfolio of businesses operating across various sectors such as Oil and Gas, Energy, Engineering and Consulting, Technology, Aviation and Media. We are seeking talented individuals to fill the role of a Director of News.

Applications Close, Friday 7, March 2025.

Job Purpose: 

The Director, News is responsible for overseeing and leading the newsroom to deliver high-quality, accurate, and timely news content across various platforms. The role holder will lead a team of journalists, producers, and editors to create compelling news stories that engage the target audience.

Core Responsibilities:

News and Content Strategy:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive content strategy that aligns with the organization's business objectives.
• Create and manage a detailed content calendar to ensure a consistent flow of high-quality content.
• Identify and leverage the most effective channels to distribute content (e.g., social media, email, website, print).
• Track and analyze content performance using key metrics (e.g., website traffic, social media engagement, email open rates).
• Oversee the development of engaging and high-quality content, including scripts, storyboards, and shooting schedules.

Editorial Judgement:

• Ensure all content is accurate, up-to-date, and free of errors.
• Verify the credibility and reliability of sources.
• Ensure that content is clear, concise, and easy to understand.
• Ensure that all content aligns with the organization's brand guidelines and messaging.
• Protect and enhance the firms media’s brand reputation through high-quality content.

Broadcasting and Production Management:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive broadcasting and production strategy aligned with the organization's overall goals.
• Identify emerging trends and technologies in the industry and develop strategies to leverage them.

• Set clear goals and objectives for the production team and monitor progress.
• Oversee the daily news production process, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of news content.
• Manage newsgathering efforts, including assigning stories, coordinating with reporters, and reviewing content.
• Monitor and analyze news consumption patterns and adjust content strategy accordingly.
• Collaborate with creative teams to develop innovative and creative content concepts.

Editorial Integrity, Compliance and Ethics:

• Ensure content adheres to brand guidelines, legal requirements, and audience expectations.
• Ensure adherence to journalistic standards and ethical guidelines.
• Ensure the accuracy and factual correctness of all published content.
• Maintain and enforce high editorial standards, including style guides, grammar, and punctuation.
• Manage copyright and licensing issues, obtain necessary permissions, and avoid infringement.
• Protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with data privacy regulations.
• Enforce ethical guidelines for content creation and publication.

Digital Transformation:

• Drive the adoption of digital technologies and tools to enhance news production and distribution.
• Develop a strong digital presence and engage with audiences on various social media platforms.
• Monitor and analyze digital analytics to optimize content strategy.

Content Planning:

• Develop and manage a comprehensive content calendar to ensure a consistent flow of high-quality content.

• Identify and develop compelling news stories that resonate with the target audience.
• Develop and implement a content strategy that aligns with the organization's brand and editorial goals.
• Ensure the accuracy and reliability of all published content.

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive news strategy aligned with the organization's overall goals.

• Oversee the editorial direction and vision of the newsroom.
• Identify emerging trends and opportunities in the news industry and adapt the newsroom's strategy accordingly.
• Foster a culture of innovation and creativity within the newsroom.

Team Management:

• Recruit, hire, and develop a talented team of journalists, producers, and editors.
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and coaching to team members.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Set clear performance expectations and provide regular feedback.
• Manage team performance and address any issues or challenges.

Stakeholder Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with industry peers, journalists, and news sources.

• Collaborate with other media organizations to share content and resources.
• Develop and implement crisis communication strategies to effectively manage crises.

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Mass Communication, or related field
• A Master’s degree is an added advantage

Professional Requirements

• Valid certification in media and communication (e.g., Certified Media Manager, Certified Public Relations Practitioner, etc)

Experience Requirements

• Minimum 10-12 years of experience in media, journalism, or related field
• Prior experience in telecommunications, media & communications industries

Knowledge Requirements

• Proficiency in newsgathering techniques, including interviewing, research, and fact-checking.
• Expertise in writing clear, concise, and engaging news stories for various platforms (print, digital, broadcast).
• Strong understanding of journalistic ethics and standards, including accuracy, fairness, and objectivity.
• Understanding of broadcast news production, including live news, news packages, and newscasts.
• Understanding of data journalism techniques and tools to analyze and visualize data.
• Proficiency in using digital tools and software for news production and distribution.

Skill Requirement

• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills  
• Problem-solving and analytical skills
• Leadership skills
• Proficiency in using relevant software applications like media and communication software

Personal Abilities

• Strong work ethic
• High level of integrity and professionalism
• Attention to detail and high level of accuracy
• Adaptability   
• Proactiveness