Job Advertisement | press ombd

status overview

The Press Council of South Africa (PCSA) invites applications for the position of Press Ombud, a senior, independent role vital to enhancing media accountability and protecting ethical journalism and public trust in the media. This is a part-time position responsible for independently and impartially resolving complaints against Press Council member organisations. Working within South Africa's independent co-regulation system, the Press Ombud upholds press codes of ethics and conduct, protects the public interest, and promotes media independence through transparent and impartial decision-making. This role is supported by two Deputy Ombudsmen and is primarily decision-making.

freedom of the press ombudsman

Press Lokpal exercises judicial authority Independent of the governance structures of the Council.

Key Responsibilities

• Receive, evaluate and decide complaints against member publications in accordance with the Press Code.
• Issue clear, reasoned decisions based on ethical principles and constitutional values, including freedom of expression and dignity.
• Provide leadership and guidance to the Deputy Ombudsman while ensuring continuity and procedural fairness.
• Manage effective and accessible complaints procedures in line with the Press Council's FAIR principles (Factual, Accountable, Independent, Responsible).
• Contribute to the interpretation and development of ethical standards, including digital journalism and emerging technologies.
• When appropriate, participate in public engagement and stakeholder discussions on the decision framework (without commenting on matters).

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Appropriate understanding of the South African media landscape, journalism, regulation, adjudication, or similar areas.
• Demonstrated expertise in media law, ethics, or human rights.
• Proven ability to assess complex factual disputes and apply ethical principles with clarity and impartiality.
• Strong writing skills with the ability to make clear, publicly accessible decisions.
• Legal qualification is not necessary.

terms and conditions

• part time appointmentIn which the workload depends on the volume and complexity of the complaint
• The appointment was made in accordance with the constitution and governance structure of the Press Council.
• the role is Inconsistent with active editorial, political or business positions Which may lead to conflict of interest.
• Applicants must be citizens of the Republic of South Africa and committed to the values ​​enshrined in the South African Constitution as well as the Press Council's Code of Ethics and Conduct.

________________________________________________

Applications should be sent to email: millicent@presscouncilsa.org.za. Those who had applied in the first round do not need to submit the application again.

Last Date: 15 May 2026

________________________________________________