Main Purpose of the Role:

The Deputy Production Editor serves as a key production leadership role within Daily Sun's editorial operations, responsible for overseeing the daily news production process while ensuring quality, accuracy, and timely delivery of content. This role acts as an audio & visual support desk to the Production Editor, coordinating between editorial, design, and technical teams to deliver a compelling daily publication that meets Daily Sun's editorial standards and brand requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supervise daily production workflows from editorial copy through to publishing
• Produce content pieces online with Daily Sun’s video content strategy
• Coordinate with editorial teams to ensure content deadlines are met and quality standards maintained
• Oversee web layout, design elements, and visual content placement in collaboration with design teams
• Manage production schedules and adjust workflows to accommodate breaking news and last-minute editorial changes
• Ensure all content adheres to Daily Sun's style guide, legal requirements, and editorial policies
• Lead and mentor video editors and videographers
• Provide guidance and feedback to team members on production techniques and quality standards
• Coordinate shift schedules and resource allocation during peak production periods
• Support staff development and training in production technologies and editorial processes
• Review and approve content before publishing
• Ensure accuracy in headlines, captions, bylines, and body text
• Maintain consistency in design elements, typography, and visual hierarchy
• Collaborate with legal team on content review when required
• Implement and monitor quality control processes throughout production cycle
• Oversee use of content management systems and production software
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and efficiency gains
• Coordinate with IT support for technical issues and system updates
• Maintain backup procedures for critical production deadlines
  

Knowledge & Skills:

• Strong understanding of South African media law, press ethics, and regulatory requirements
• Excellent command of English language with strong editing and proofreading skills
• Knowledge of digital publishing platforms and social media integration
• Understanding of digital news publishing
• Familiarity with videography, video editing, photography, image editing, and visual storytelling principles
  

Requirements:

• Diploma or bachelor's degree in journalism, Media Studies, Communications, or related field
• Minimum 3-5 years' experience in digital publishing, newspaper or magazine production
• Previous supervisory or team leadership experience in media production environment
• Proficiency in industry-standard software (InDesign, Photoshop, content management systems)
• Demonstrated experience in editorial production workflows and deadline management
• Experience with page layout, design principles, and typography
• Experience working in fast-paced newsroom environment with tight daily deadlines
• Additional language proficiency relevant to Daily Sun's readership

Given the employment equity policy of Media24, preference will be given to suitable candidates from the designated groups