Johannesburg, South Africa – The Press Council of South Africa (PCSA) has officially opened applications for the position of Press Ombud, a senior and independent role central to promoting ethical journalism and strengthening public trust in the media.
The position is regarded as a critical pillar in South Africa’s media landscape, ensuring accountability and fairness in the handling of complaints against member publications.
A Key Role in Media Accountability
The Press Ombud serves in a part-time, quasi-judicial capacity, responsible for resolving complaints from the public against media organisations that fall under the Press Council.
Operating within South Africa’s system of independent co-regulation, the Ombud plays a vital role in:
- Upholding the Press Code of Ethics and Conduct
- Protecting the public interest
- Promoting transparency and media freedom
The Ombud works alongside two Deputy Ombuds and functions independently from the Council’s governance structures.
Responsibilities of the Press Ombud
The successful candidate will be tasked with:
- Receiving and adjudicating complaints against media publications
- Issuing clear, fair, and well-reasoned rulings
- Applying ethical standards rooted in constitutional values such as freedom of expression and human dignity
- Ensuring accessible and efficient complaint processes
- Guiding Deputy Ombuds and maintaining consistency in decisions
- Contributing to the evolution of ethical journalism, including in digital media
The role also involves engaging in broader discussions on media ethics and regulatory frameworks, while maintaining impartiality on active cases.
Required Qualifications and Experience
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Strong knowledge of the South African legal and media landscape
- Expertise in constitutional law, media law, ethics, or human rights
- The ability to assess complex disputes fairly and objectively
- Excellent writing skills for producing clear and accessible rulings
Candidates must also be committed to the values of the South African Constitution and ethical journalism.
Important Conditions
- The position is part-time, depending on complaint volumes
- Candidates must be South African citizens
- The role is incompatible with active involvement in editorial, political, or commercial positions that may create conflicts of interest
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit applications via email.
- Email: millicent@presscouncilsa.org.za
- Closing Date: 31 March 2026
Strengthening Trust in South African Media
The appointment of a new Press Ombud comes at a time when media credibility and ethical reporting are under increased public scrutiny.
The Press Council says the role is essential in ensuring that journalism in South Africa remains accountable, fair, and aligned with democratic values.
