Media Releases

RNZ appoints Director of Editorial Quality and Training

Released at 3:57 pm on 17 November 2023

RNZ has appointed one of its most senior journalists, Political Editor Jane Patterson, to a new position focused on ensuring the public broadcaster provides the highest quality news and current affairs – Director of Editorial Quality and Training.

RNZ Chief Executive and Editor-in- Chief Paul Thompson said the establishment of the role was recommended in the Independent External Review of RNZ Editorial Processes. 

“We welcomed the review panel’s observation that our high quality journalism will be further enhanced by this role. 

"Jane is an outstanding public broadcaster and brings a wealth of experience to her new job. She will work across the organisation to support our people to achieve the highest standards in their work.”

Patterson joined RNZ in May 2000 as a general reporter and has spent most of her 23 years at RNZ in the Parliamentary Press Gallery, where she is a life member, including the last eight years as Political Editor. 

Patterson said her depth of experience covering contentious political issues and her knowledge of journalism and news practices would be put to good use in her new role. 

“Like many people who choose to work for RNZ, I have an unwavering commitment to public service journalism and building public trust. I strongly believe the basis of trust lies in not only having high standards, but also making sure everyone that works for the organisation is supported in upholding those standards.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenge of working across RNZ’s entire editorial team to build capacity to respond to editorial challenges at a time when the need for a strong public media has never been greater.”

Patterson’s appointment to this role represents further progress in implementing the recommendations of the review. Currently, just over 40 percent of the recommendations have been completed, including the updating of RNZ’s editorial policy, management of wire service contracts and logging of editorial training. Work on the remaining recommendations is either in progress or due to begin before Christmas.  

RNZ has now begun the search for a new Political Editor with the job open for applicants. 

RNZ Chief News Officer Mark Stevens said it was an exciting time in politics and a great opportunity for the successful candidate.

“We are looking for someone with an in-depth knowledge of the political scene in New Zealand and its key figures; someone who can break stories and interview in an engaging way.”

The full job advert, including details about how to apply can be found here: Political Editor - RNZ (careercentre.net.nz)