JobsThomson Reuters Foundation seeks Cairo-based journalist

Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of the world’s leading provider of news and information, is looking for a well-rounded and energetic journalist to add Middle Eastern and North African expertise to its award-winning humanitarian and legal news websites.

The job will primarily involve reporting for the Foundation’s AlertNet and TrustLaw news sites, covering topics ranging from natural disasters and conflicts to corruption and women’s rights. You will also be expected to build and manage a network of freelance contributors.

In the event of a big natural catastrophe, you may also be called upon to help run our Emergency Information Service for disaster-affected populations.

Another key aspect of the role is to help build the profile of the Foundation and its programmes in the region. Particular emphasis will be on building our TrustLaw Connect service, recruiting pro bono lawyers with non-governmental organisations and social enterprises in need of free legal support.

Based in Cairo, this is a job that would suit a mid-career journalist with excellent writing and communication skills, as well as a demonstrable interest in multimedia reportage.

You will work in the Reuters bureau in Cairo but be part of an international team that is dedicated to empowering people in need with trusted information, increasing access to the rule of law and improving standards of journalism.

Candidates will need to demonstrate a wide range of skills. You should feel equally comfortable explaining the nuances of the global food aid system in plain and vivid English, hitting the phone to report on relief efforts in a crisis writing a script for a multimedia documentary on good governance issues.

Duties will include:

• Writing stories and doing multimedia reportage for our Trust.org family of websites
• Writing lively blogs and chatty explainers to bring issues humanitarian, good governance and women’s rights issues to life
• Monitoring local media and doing quick pick-ups and press digests
• Liaising and coordinating with local Reuters desks and the Foundation’s main desk in London
• Managing a regional network of freelance contributors
• Representing Thomson Reuters Foundation in northern Africa and the Middle East
• Reaching out to law firms, non-governmental organisations and social enterprises for TrustLaw Connect

The Foundation is offering this post initially as a one-year contract. The ideal candidate will have a journalistic background and international experience and be accustomed to operating independently.

This is an excellent opportunity to make a real difference in a dynamic team that aims to put Thomson Reuters principles of speed, accuracy and objectivity at the disposal of our humanitarian, legal and media communities.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Fluent English and Arabic a must. Other languages a plus.
• Strong writing skills, solid news judgement and a demonstrable interest in humanitarian, rights and good governance issues
• Adaptable to rapidly changing work requirements, including sudden travel to disaster areas
• Computer literacy a must, along with an interest in online media
• Ability to work to tight deadlines, juggle diverse tasks and think creatively
• Strong communication skills

Location: Cairo

Terms offered under: Local

Immediate manager: Timothy Large

Please CV and cover letter to alertnet@thomsonreuters.com, with “CAIRO EDITORIAL JOB” in the subject line.

Deadline for applications: 9 March, 2012