Main purpose of the position:
To carry out short-, mid- and long-term planning, developing, national coverage and projects for all SABC News platforms as well as the managing thereof.
Key Accountabilities:
Conceptualise and implement News planning and Project Plan for SABC News and Current Affairs
Develop and operationalise News planning principles for SABC News in line with the public mandate and the Division's vision.
Responsible for the short-, medium- and long-term planning for the treatment, development, and management of the coverage of national events or events or issues that require coordinated coverage
Provide support and input in the development and implementation of SABC News and Current Affairs strategy.
Develop and Implement SABC News operational plan for the unit and guide teams to achieve business unit objectives.
Plan and manage live elements and broadcast plans for key stories and big events in conjunction with all Editors.
Initiate and facilitate brain storming sessions to ensure creative execution ideas for coverage and setting up material for forthcoming events and themed coverage as required
Prepare, interrogate and supervise diary entries and suggest story sources and guests where applicable
Initiate ideas for coverage and setting up material for forward planning
Oversee and authorise deployments for Outside Broadcasts
Ensure that obits and profiles are prepared according to the required editorial quality standards, on time and for all relevant languages and platforms.
Compile, Manage and oversee the utilization of the Unit budget cost effectively
Introduce and implement corrective measures to ensure financial discipline and accountability.
Consult with Divisional Finance to determine budget requirements.
Manage and authorize payments for all the logistical services, travel arrangements, outside broadcasts, over time, independent contractors (freelancers) and additional work contracts etc
Compliance with broadcasting act and all related regulatory frameworks and legislative requirements.
Compliance to all related policies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
Develop and maintain constructive and effective relationships with all stakeholders.
Communication with other specialist desks, News/Current Affairs editors and all relevant SABC platforms
Identify, mitigate, and manage News and current affairs editorial risks
Communicate with stakeholders to ensure optimal delivery on all News and Current Affairs platforms.
Build a network of national and international sources, including links with a wide range of professional research institutions, specialist researchers and news research units.
Contract and manage the SABC's Performance Management System with the team in accordance with the organizational policies and procedures.
Allocate responsibilities and scheduling of teams.
Manage available staff and ensure fair and balanced distribution of work.
Coach, mentor and develop team members
Provide input into adequate staffing, succession planning and effective leadership.
Provide input on attracting, retaining and rewarding staff.
Manage employee relations to ensure conducive and productive working environment.
Communicate effectively with teams
Requirements:
Diploma/Degree ( NQF 6/7) in journalism, Communication, Media Studies, or relevant discipline
10 years' experience in news and current affairs of which 4 should be at management level.
Proven work experience as a journalist
Portfolio of executed news broadcasting projects
Thorough understanding of project management principles and practice
Well-developed decision-making skills
Strong problem-solving capability
Sound negotiating skills
Knowledge of business management principles and sound governance within a news environment
Outstanding writing skills and ability to plan long-term projects
Full understanding of the broadcast and digital environment
Understanding of the complexities of public broadcasting
Computer literacy is essential (MS Word, Excel, and Outlook)
Excellent communication (verbal and written)
Good, credible, and reliable professional network
An active and trusted social media presence
Knowledge of PFMA and other relevant legislative prescripts
Deadline:22nd March,2026