JOB DESCRIPTION
Job title
On Air Editor (Network)
Job family
Journalism
Band
Fp
Job purpose
The On Air Editor (Network) is tasked with leading and representing the BBC’s coverage
in a particular specialism across the corporation’s News coverage.
This is a prominent on air role requiring superb broadcast skills and outstanding
judgment as well as a social media presence. The job holder is expected to be the expert
voice in their field and is given the discretion to interpret events in a way that informs
and influences the audience and drives the news agenda.
The job holder will hold a significant UK brief, e.g. health , education, arts, sport.
Key responsibilities and accountabilities
To use a high level of specialist knowledge and contacts to inform high quality reporting
on all news outlets (TV, Radio, Online, Social Media etc.)
To lead on editorial matters in their field by setting the agenda in their reporting and
guiding other journalists.
Expected to analyse, interpret and place news within a wider context.
To meet the highest journalistic standards of impartiality, fully observing the BBC
Editorial Guidelines.
Develop and use all formats and platforms available to tell the story in the most
appropriate way and in particular developments in social media to deliver our journalism
to audiences
Acts as a role model in encouraging team working; creating a climate of support and
trust within the team.
Provide leadership and expertise on future developments and trends.
Seek ways to increase diversity in their reporting, ensuring that our output reflects the
audiences we serve
Deliver live (give accurate updates and analysis whilst events unfold) and packaged
content from the field and in the studio for all outputs including flagship TV, radio and
digital.
Attend and support PR and marketing as required.
Be active on social media
JOB DESCRIPTION
Delivering to tight deadlines
At all times to carry out duties in accordance with the BBC Health and Safety policy
Knowledge, skills, training and experience
Outstanding on-air presence with the ability to tell a story in the appropriate style and
exploiting the different techniques available.
Deep knowledge of broadcasting and journalism gained through broad experience and
underpinned with relevant academic qualification.
The highest level of editorial judgment under pressure
Exceptionally thorough knowledge and contacts in their specialism
Able to build and maintain effective working relationships with a range of people. Works
cooperatively with others whilst setting standards and guiding colleagues
An excellent understanding of different programmes and their audiences
Demonstrates a commitment to improving diversity in the BBC and understands how
individual differences can benefit the BBC
Able to prioritise and plan activities taking into account all the relevant issues and
factors such as deadlines and resource requirements
Ability to communicate clearly and get one’s message across by adopting a range of
styles, tools and techniques appropriate to the audience and the nature of the
information.
The flexibility and adaptability to sustain performance, particularly under pressure to
meet deadlines and changing priorities and circumstances
Follow BBC safety requirements and instructions, especially in relation to emergencies;
report any accidents, dangerous situations or defects in safety arrangements
Job impact
Decision making
High level of responsibility and decision making; able to operate alone. No formal
management responsibility but expected to influence and guide other members of staff
Scope
An authoritative and very experienced journalist with a detailed knowledge of their
specialist area. Demonstrates the highest level of analytical, interpretive and
storytelling skills. Often considered as the BBC’s voice.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Other information
For Reward team use only Job Code
Definition:
Content
This job description is a written statement of the essential characteristics of the job, with its
principal accountabilities, incorporating a note of the skills, knowledge and experience required
for a satisfactory level of performance. This is not intended to be a complete, detailed account of
all aspects of the duties involved.