Sr. Journalist

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

BBC World Service is an international news provider, part of BBC News, delivering a wide range of language and regional services on digital, TV and radio. It reaches a weekly audience of around 364 million around the world, helping them make sense of the world we live in.

BBC News Africa brings quality, impartial, original journalism to Africans around the world on digital and TV. We are looking to hire a Senior Journalist Reporter to join our Addis Ababa based team.

YOUR KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND IMPACT:

As a Senior Journalist Reporter, you will be responsible for originating and producing stories which may include scripting, editing, outputting, filming and presenting content across a range of BBC output or generating exciting ideas and original newsgathering.

Day to day duties will include:

• Propose, research, write, report and edit interesting and well-explained reports and more thoughtful, analytical pieces for publication – meeting high journalistic standards and fully observing the BBC editorial guidelines.
• Alert editors to breaking news and be ready to file and present accurate, on-the-spot reports and analysis.
• Develop and use all formats and platforms available to tell the story in the most appropriate way, with a particular focus on digital platforms to deliver our journalism to audiences.
• To gather material for broadcast on news topics and events which is reflective of the audiences we serve.
• To provide timely, specialist and self-assured news coverage and analysis of news and events of interest to the audiences of the BBC.
• Maintain regular and clear communication with the Editor ensuring everyone is always briefed on own movements throughout the assignment.
• Delivering to tight deadlines while maintaining the highest editorial standards.
• At all times, to carry out duties in accordance with the BBC health and safety policy.

YOUR SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:

• You must have excellent knowledge (spoken and written) of English and of one of Horn of Africa languages.
• Exceptional Editorial Judgment – Proven ability to deliver complex stories and investigations, ensuring accuracy, impartiality, and audience relevance across platforms.
• Excellent understanding and comprehensive knowledge of Africa
• Digital Expertise – Demonstrable experience in delivering impactful content tailored to digital audiences, with a strong understanding of audience needs and digital-first storytelling.
• Creative and Tenacious – A track record of generating original, high-quality journalism with the creativity and determination to see stories through from concept to completion.
• Experience in live broadcasting with good on-screen presence, self-assured microphone voice and ability to communicate effectively to target audience.
• Audience-Focused Approach – A sharp eye for detail and a commitment to understanding and engaging with diverse audiences across digital, TV, and radio platforms.
• Culture and inclusion – The ideal candidate will work hard to contribute to a culture that embraces diversity and inclusion, encouraging colleagues to bring their authentic selves to work. By fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, they will inspire others to contribute their best in all ways.
• Willingness to travel and in particular, to High-Risk environments.
• The ability to work flexible hours when required, including on weekends if necessary.

If you can bring some of these skills and experience, along with transferable strengths, we’d love to hear from you and encourage you to apply.

Disclaimer

This job description is a written statement of the essential characteristics of the job, with its principal accountabilities, incorporating a note of the skills, knowledge and experience required for a satisfactory level of performance. This is not intended to be a complete, detailed account of all aspects of the duties involved.

Please note: If you were to be offered this role, the BBC will conduct Employment screening checks which include Reference checks; Eligibility to work checks; and if applicable to the role, Safeguarding and Adverse media/Social media checks. Any offer made is conditional on these checks being satisfactory.

Skills Required:

• Communication / Pr / Journalism