The BBC World Service is offering an exciting leadership opportunity for an experienced journalist to join its Africa operations as a Senior News Editor (English in Africa), based in Nairobi. This full-time role is ideal for media professionals who are passionate about high-impact journalism, editorial leadership, and shaping news coverage for African audiences.
In this position, you will take charge of editorial direction across multiple platforms, ensuring that BBC Africa’s content remains accurate, impartial, and deeply relevant. You will line manage the Focus on Africa editor and oversee BBC Africa’s social media teams, ensuring consistent quality and strong audience engagement.
As a senior editorial leader, you’ll make critical decisions in both routine and high-pressure situations, some involving geopolitical sensitivity or operational risk. Working closely with other senior leaders across the continent, you will help define and deliver a clear editorial strategy for news gathering, commissioning, and reporting.
The role also requires strong stakeholder management skills. You’ll collaborate with senior executives, external partners, and internal teams, often under tight deadlines and competing priorities. A deep understanding of audience behavior, market trends, and the evolving digital media landscape is essential.
Candidates should have substantial experience in journalism and production, with proven editorial judgment and leadership in a fast-paced news environment. Experience managing teams across different locations, handling complex editorial or legal challenges, and working with significant budgets will be a major advantage. The BBC is also committed to diversity and inclusion, and this role plays a key part in nurturing talent and promoting inclusive storytelling.
If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for African storytelling and global journalism, this role offers a unique chance to make a lasting impact.
Method of Application:
Interested and qualified candidates should apply directly via the BBC World Service careers portal at careers.bbc.co.uk.
