WSJ seeks an Africa bureau chief

The Wall Street Journal is looking for an energetic, experienced and ambitious journalist to lead its coverage of Africa.

It is a crucial moment for the continent. African economies have been among the hardest hit by the global slowdown, raising fears of a sovereign debt crisis. A string of coups from Sudan to Mali has dampened the optimism of citizens’ uprisings and opened the door to foreign mercenary groups.

Africa accounts for a tiny part of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions—just 3.8%. But the continent is set to feel a disproportionate impact from climate change. In places like the Sahel and Nigeria’s green belt, the shifts are contributing to armed conflict.

We are looking for a skilled writer and correspondent who will lead from the front, covering major stories while also guiding a team of talented reporters.

You will:

• Be in charge of coverage across the entire continent of Africa, home to roughy 18% of the world’s people.
• Oversee a team of three reporters.
• Work closely with colleagues in bureaus around the world.

You have:

• A global view and the ability to coordinate and inspire coverage of Africa in a broad global context.
• A high news metabolism and sound judgment.
• Experience producing in-depth enterprise work.

The position ideally will be based in Johannesburg and will report to World Coverage Chief Gordon Fairclough.

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter and at least five clips. Please contact recruiting@wsj.com if you have questions.

The Journal’s reporters, editors, developers, and audio and visual journalists create important and impactful stories, firmly rooted in fact and adhering to the highest ethical standards. We report without fear or bias, and we maintain a proper sense of perspective, detachment and objectivity in our reporting.

To apply, go here.