Assistant Editor

The BBC is hiring an Assistant Editor to join its flagship news and current affairs program, Focus on Africa TV, in Nairobi. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the editorial vision of a high-impact program that brings African stories to global audiences. If you’re an experienced newsroom leader with a strong background in African news, live broadcasting, and multi-platform storytelling, this role offers the chance to lead with purpose, foster innovation, and amplify diverse voices across the continent.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates should have:

• Significant recent experience in editorial leadership across live television and radio news, with a focus on African news.
• Proven experience launching new programs or podcasts, resulting in increased reach and reputation.
• Strong editorial oversight capabilities with the ability to edit scripts and write creatively in English.
• Demonstrated experience in breaking news, investigations, and feature journalism across the African continent.
• A track record of promoting diversity and inclusion in teams and editorial output.
• Knowledge and experience in digital video production and social media engagement.
• Deep understanding of Africa’s socio-political landscape and ability to communicate it effectively to a global audience.
• Strong technical knowledge of TV, video, and audio editing workflows.
• Proficiency in using digital platforms for news dissemination and audience engagement.
• A history of innovation, interdepartmental collaboration, and managing high-level stakeholders.
• Experience in leading geographically dispersed teams.
• Knowledge of BBC editorial policies, including handling complex compliance issues.

 Key Responsibilities

• Support the News Editor in delivering the editorial vision for Focus on Africa.
• Ensure all content is timely, accurate, and maintains high journalistic standards.
• Collaborate with regional correspondents and producers to deliver compelling, audience-resonant stories.
• Oversee the editorial and fact-checking process from concept to final production.
• Spearhead the integration of digital media into storytelling to reach broader and younger audiences.
• Encourage innovation and creativity, exploring new formats and technologies for audience engagement.
• Mentor and guide the editorial team, promoting professional growth and diverse perspectives.
• Step in to deputize for the News Editor when needed.
• Build synergies between editorial and technical operations across platforms (TV, radio, podcast).
• Maximize use of central BBC resources and content for broader impact.
• Drive efforts to diversify the workforce and ensure output reflects the diverse audiences served.

Application Deadline: April 27th, 2025

For more details and to apply, click here.