Iraq Editor (Contractor)

About the Job

Job Announcement Iraq Editor (Contractor) About MBN Middle East Broadcasting Networks (MBN) is the premier Arabic-first media organization that connects the Middle East and the United States. The company is in the midst of an exciting digital transformation and looking for energetic and talented people who care about journalism and the Middle East to join us on this journey. We provide original and indispensable reporting, perspectives and commentary on the Middle East and how America’s engagement impacts the region. MBN delivers content in both Arabic and English across multiple platforms, in formats including written articles, short-form video, newsletters, podcasts, data trackers and social media. Our target audience is decision-makers, influencers, and residents of key capitals across the Middle East, as well as the next generation of globally engaged, digitally connected youth. About the Role The Iraq Editor is responsible for editing and maintaining high-quality digital content about Iraq across all MBN digital platforms. This individual ensures all content aligns with MBN’s voice, style, brand standards, and digital strategy. The editor works closely with writers, designers, and technical teams to support engaging and user-friendly content experiences. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The following tasks are considered essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions: Lead editorial coverage of Iraq, delivering timely, accurate, and audience-focused reporting across web, mobile, social, and newsletter platforms. Assign, edit, and publish Iraq-focused breaking news, feature stories, live updates, explainers, and multimedia content for digital audiences. Manage real-time coverage of political, economic, security, and regional developments, ensuring rapid and accurate publishing in a 24/7 newsroom environment. Collaborate with reporters, producers, and others to create the best, most compelling, Iraq-focused storytelling across digital platforms. Write thoughtful and engaging headlines with audience in mind. Monitor analytics, audience trends, and platform performance to guide editorial decisions and content strategy. Ensure all Iraq-related coverage meets editorial standards for accuracy, fairness, tone, legal compliance, and cultural sensitivity. Verify sources, fact-check reporting, and assess misinformation risks in fast-moving digital news environments. Maintain strong knowledge of Iraqi politics, regional affairs, geopolitical developments, and emerging digital news trends. Support coverage planning for major events and developing stories affecting Iraq and the broader region. Other Duties: Perform additional job-related duties and take on new responsibilities as needed based on organizational requirements and circumstances. Qualifications and Requirements: Candidates are required to have: Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, International Relations, Middle Eastern Studies, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience. 5+ years of newsroom, international reporting, or digital media experience, with significant time spent covering Iraq or the Middle East. Strong editing, writing, and digital storytelling skills in a fast-paced, deadline-driven newsroom environment. Demonstrated knowledge of Iraqi politics, regional affairs, security issues, and geopolitical developments. Experience managing breaking news coverage and publishing content across digital platforms in real time. Ability to edit complex international stories for accuracy, clarity, balance, and audience engagement. Familiarity with audience analytics, social media publishing, and how to make digital content stand out. Strong news judgment and ability to make sound editorial decisions under pressure. Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills. Excellent time management and organizational skills with the ability