THE JOB
The English-language correspondent in Beirut is part of a team of seven text journalists (among them the bureau chief) working in Arabic, English and French.
As well as covering Lebanon and its current devastating economic and political crisis, you will contribute to AFP’s coverage of the conflict in Syria.
The Damascus bureau falls under the responsibility of Beirut and material from the bureau and from stringers across Syria, including in conflict zones, is dealt with by Beirut.
The workload is intense and time consuming. Many days will include multiple news breaks and alert series. You must have the ability to write fast, lively and accurate wraps, as well as scene, focus or analysis pieces that need to be quickly turned around. A significant portion of the work involves preparing stories with material gathered from Arabic-speaking stringers in Syria.
The successful candidate should be a self-starter, brimming with ideas and creativity.
Solid news judgment, the energy and drive to work in a high-pressure environment, the initiative to generate stories and uncover interesting angles, imagination and a spirit of adventure are essential qualities.
You should have a keen eye for the visual and multimedia aspect of coverage and closely coordinate with the photo, video and graphics departments.
You will ensure the credibility and reliability of our coverage and respect the agency’s editorial guidelines.
You can be called upon to contribute to AFP’s Web and Mobile products and, on a voluntary basis, to participate in social media and the production of light video.
You will contribute to the fight against misinformation by helping factcheckers in the network and generally supporting the development of digital investigation.
You may have to work long days and a wide range of hours, including early mornings and late nights, as well as weekends, and be regularly on call.
You must show calm under pressure, patience and common sense, and show a spirit of cooperation and collaborative dialogue.
SKILLS REQUIRED
The successful applicant will have:
- English as your native language
- Fluent Arabic and strong French
- Strong writing skills to produce concise news copy, compelling focus/analysis pieces and lively features
- Solid news judgment and ability to generate stories and uncover interesting angles in all fields from politics, economics, culture and lifestyle
- Capacity to react quickly to breaking news, but remain calm under pressure
- Ability to work as part of close-knit team
- Hostile environment training would be a plus
THE BUREAU
As well as the team of seven text journalists, the Beirut bureau is also comprised of two
photographers, a video journalist, plus technical and support staff. It is also a regional hub for the MENA commercial department and some Arabic services, including a hugely successful Factchecking team in Arabic and graphics.
The AFP office is situated in Hamra, in central Beirut.
CONTACTS
Please send your applications to:
Beirut Bureau Chief: [email protected]
Middle East and North Africa editor-in-chief [email protected]
MENA Regional Director: [email protected]