Assistant Editor – On the Day (Swahili Service)

About the role

The BBC Swahili service is expanding its story‑led model and needs a senior editorial lead for its daily news operation. Reporting to the Service Editor, the Assistant Editor – On the Day will own all time‑sensitive output across digital, visualised radio and TV, ensuring fast, accurate, and BBC‑standard journalism.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the On the Day editorial stream, overseeing breaking and daily news across three 24/7 shifts.
• Maintain continuous digital publishing and ensure timely delivery on radio, TV and online platforms.
• Champion a digital‑first approach, commissioning stories with multi‑platform distribution in mind.
• Develop visualised audio output from the Nairobi studio, including live YouTube streaming and short social‑media assets.
• Collaborate with the On Demand Assistant Editor to coordinate joint story commissioning and maintain editorial coherence.
• Contribute to editorial standards, digital growth and team development as part of the service’s core leadership.

Required profile

• Senior editorial experience with full responsibility for news output.
• Proven ability to make confident, rapid decisions in a fast‑moving environment.
• Experience leading large, diverse teams across shift patterns.
• Strong digital ambition and understanding of cross‑platform integration.
• Commitment to impartial, independent journalism serving East African audiences.

Required skills

What we offer

• Permanent, full‑time contract with flexible working options.
• Opportunity to shape a major BBC language service.
• Collaborative, multicultural newsroom in Nairobi.
• Professional development and leadership responsibilities.