Job Introduction
The BBC has been broadcasting for many decades to Afghanistan and the surrounding region in the Dari, Pashto and Uzbek languages. As a result we have built a very strong brand in the region. Our latest research figures show that 73% of adults in Afghanistan have listened to our radio output. This consists of 24 hours a day of news and current affairs programming. Output also includes news bulletins, features and analysis, interactive programmes and Drama and Educational output commissioned by the Afghan Service in conjunction with the BBC World Service Trust. We are currently seeking a Multimedia Producer / Broadcast Journalist to join our expanding team on a 12 month fixed term contract. As a Producer, based in London, you will enhance our coverage through the creation, production and presentation of outstanding multi-platform output.
Role Responsibility
You’ll work as part of our busy multi-platform journalistic team, reporting to the Senior Producer / Desk Editor, as appropriate. Broadly speaking, you’ll originate, research, prepare, produce and present a range of our output, for radio, online and other media forms Therefore, you’ll be writing, translating and adapting material swiftly and accurately into Pashto style suited to radio and online journalism.
This role is focused within online and radio, with involvement in launching television. You’ll also conduct interviews and reports, undertaking live, pre-recorded, scripted and un-scripted work. You may be required to work with, or move to, other programme teams on a multi-media basis. Therefore, you’ll need the ability to work flexibly across a range of skills. You may also be required to travel within the target region on reporting trips, assignments and for training. Flexibility is key in this role as you’ll work on a shift basis, including nights, weekends and public holidays.
You will be responsible for studio production of live and pre-recorded programmes. To brief the Studio Manager, where relevant, and other colleagues in respect of the transmission or recording of any programmes for which the Broadcast Journalist is responsible. You will respond to breaking stories while on air and to resolve technical difficulties in a timely manner.
The Ideal Candidate
You will be fluent in Pashto and English, meeting fluency in writing, reading and speaking. You will have substantial recent experience as a journalist, where you have been involved in online or print journalism, with a track record of covering current affairs relevant to our target area. The successful candidate will be able to write and broadcast in an engaging manner, showing capability to accurately translate for varying audiences and media platforms. You will have strong knowledge in social media; therefore, you’ll demonstrate good awareness of the area’s media market, social, political and cultural issues and the needs of our listeners. It is essential you also bring good keyboard/computer skills. The ability to acquire technical skills and to operate technical equipment is essential, as is good internet familiarity.
Package Description
Contract: 12 Fixed Term Contract
Salary: £32,000- £33,803
Department: Afghan Service
Reports to: Editor/Planning Editor London
