AI consultant – mentoring and training newsrooms on best tools and practices in AI usage
The Thomson Reuters Foundation is the corporate foundation of Thomson Reuters, the global AI and technology company. As an independent charity, registered in the UK and the USA, with an entity in the EU, we leverage our media, legal and data-driven expertise to foster free, fair and informed societies by strengthening information integrity, countering shrinking civic space, and advancing fair work and responsible AI.
Leveraging our expertise and global network, we collaborate with media organisations and journalists to enhance independent, accurate and ethical reporting, in line with our Reuters’ Trust principles. Our goal is to contribute to the development of a vibrant, independent media sector that empowers communities and holds power to account.
As part of our global support to independent media, we have been supporting independent Newsrooms through expert media development consultancy, journalism and newsroom training programmes, and legal assistance.
Read more about our Resilience of Independent media work.
Opportunity
The Thomson Reuters Foundation is looking for highly experienced consultant to support, mentor and train 5 independent media operating in Kenya on best practices in adopting AI into their newsrooms and editorial workflows. After assessing the current AI needs of the media, the consultant will advise them on what are the most practical AI tools they can adopt and will upskill their team in using AI in the newsroom.
Objectives of the consultancy: Support the ethical integration of technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions to optimise and improve key editorial and operational functions in Kenyan independent media, which may include:
- Higher quality of content production through the use of AI and support in automation of routine operations to optimise their workflow.
- Ability to better determine which AI tools are best suited for their needs
- Increased audience engagement and reach
Scope of work
- Consultant will work with the newsrooms to assess their needs and to identify areas of their workflow which could be optimised by introducing AI
- Consultant will work closely with the media to understand the level of knowledge and experience the media and newsroom staff have in using AI in everyday newsroom management and editorial work.
- Consultant will make informed recommendations listed in an AI adoption workplan which will describe and list AI tools that are best suited to the needs of the media as well as tools best address challenges/bottlenecks in the newsroom.
- Consultant will train newsroom staff on how to adopt AI, where to use the tools and will guide them through implementing their skills in the everyday running of a newsroom; this will be done in a mix of workshop style training and mentorship both hybrid and online over a period of 3–4 months (to be confirmed)
- Consultant will provide mentoring to the newsrooms in line with their AI adoption workplans, supporting their implementation and reporting on progress
- Consultant will assist in setting up pipelines and quality control and will write editorial guidelines for the use of AI.
Skillset and expertise
- Professional work experience as a consultant on AI adoption and integration of technology for newsroom and editorial teams;
- Previous professional work experience with independent newsrooms operating in Kenya/ East Africa is desirable.
- Strong understanding of the political landscape in Africa and /or East Africa, enabling informed decision-making and strategic planning is desirable.
- Fluency in English and Kiswahili ensuring seamless communication and collaboration with media outlets and project stakeholders.
Timelines
Start date of consultancy would commence in September 2026 and end date would be by March 2027.
What’s in it for you
At the Thomson Reuters Foundation, our consultants are our greatest assets. Here are some of the advantages of this role:
A Unique Approach: Our expertise in media and the law is world class; we combine the power of both to address the critical issues faced by humanity.
Our Relevance: With a focus on advancing media freedom, fostering more inclusive economies and promoting human rights, our work has never been more needed than right now.
Our Consultant Community: Join our growing community of world-class consultants, meet and exchange insights across the globe and sectors.
Applications
To apply, please submit the form and supporting document by COB, 28th July 2026.
Thomson Reuters Foundation is an equal opportunity organisation. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds and with marginalised identities to apply.
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