Multimedia Producer

The Multimedia Producer position sits within the News and Current Affairs division of the SABC, reporting directly to the Duty Editor for Digital News. The core purpose of this role is to develop, edit, and support the production of multimedia content in English, while also compiling features and special reports that drive audience engagement and growth across SABC News’ digital and social platforms. This is a hands-on, creative role that blends journalistic rigour with technical multimedia production skill, requiring someone who can move from story conception to final output across a range of formats.

Candidates must hold a National Diploma in journalism or another relevant tertiary qualification, alongside five to seven years of experience in journalism, multimedia production, or a related discipline. A strong news sense, sound editorial judgement, and broad general knowledge are essential, as is an excellent command of written and spoken English. The role demands a professional understanding of social media as a journalistic tool, not only for gathering and verifying information but also for promoting SABC News and engaging audiences in a responsible manner. Experience with website content production, particularly using Content Management Systems, is required. Additional advantages include skills in multimedia or mobile journalism, graphic design, video editing, and live streaming within a digital news environment, as well as a clear grasp of current trends in news and digital media.

The duties are varied and demanding. The producer will conceptualise, brainstorm, and produce multimedia content for SABC News’ online platforms, including features, special reports, and original stories. This involves researching stories and potential interviewees through various news mediums, and creating diverse content forms such as infographics, digital news cards, listicles, explainers, animations, and audiovisual packages. The role also includes assisting with graphic design projects, modifying images, and creating distinctive visual designs for daily assignments. From pre- to post-production, the producer writes and produces original stories both in the field and in the studio, including mobile journalism packages, podcasts, voiceovers, and other visualisation tools. Supporting all SABC News platforms with digital and multimedia expertise is a key responsibility, as is staying abreast of the latest developments, trends, and upcoming events. The producer must keep team leaders informed of story progress, maintain constructive relationships with stakeholders, and communicate effectively with critical production areas such as Digital News’ Multimedia Editors. Regular compilation of analytics and production reports is also required.

Importantly, the role operates within a strict regulatory and editorial framework. The producer must adhere to South Africa’s Constitution, all laws, ICASA licence conditions, BCCSA and Press Council codes and rulings, as well as SABC Editorial Policies and the standards set by partners such as Google, YouTube, and internal OTT platforms like SABC+. Adherence to the News style guide and Standard Operating Procedures is non-negotiable. This is a role for a seasoned multimedia journalist who can work under pressure, uphold high editorial standards, and help shape the future of digital news in South Africa.