Digital Content Manager

Are you passionate about rugby and digital storytelling? We're seeking a talented Digital Content Manager to support our rugby coverage at Kick Off, delivering breaking news, match analysis, and engaging social content to our passionate rugby community. This is a fast-paced role perfect for someone who lives and breathes rugby, can work under pressure during big match weekends, and has the skills to create compelling content across multiple platforms. This is an on-site role based at our Cape Town head office (Western Cape), reporting to the Digital Officer.

Content Creation & Journalism:

• Write and publish breaking rugby news stories, particularly during weekends and major tournaments working with our rugby editor to ensure solid content strategy and planning.
• Create real-time content around big games and rugby events
• Produce match previews, reviews, and analysis pieces
• React quickly to breaking news in the rugby world
• Play a central role in our production desk, shaping local, international, lifestyle and social media rugby content.
• Manage, edit and publish daily content across web and social platforms in line with the publications' best practice.
• Sub-edit copy to ensure accuracy, clarity and style consistency.
• Collaborate with sales and commercial teams to optimise native campaigns.
• Leverage AI tools for content creation, optimisation and multimedia storytelling.
• Monitor performance data and adjust strategy to maximise reach and engagement.

Website Management:

• Oversee subbing and posting of all rugby content on the KickOff website
• Ensure content quality, accuracy, and timely publication
• Optimize content for SEO and audience engagement
• Maintain editorial standards and brand voice

Social Media Content:

• Create bespoke social media content specifically for rugby stories
• Develop engaging graphics, videos, and posts across platforms
• Adapt long-form content for social media consumption
• Monitor social engagement and respond to community interactions

Live Coverage:

• Provide weekend and match-day coverage during peak rugby seasons
• Deliver real-time updates during major tournaments and competitions
• Coordinate with editorial team for breaking news coverage

• Journalism degree or equivalent experience

• Previous sports journalism experience
• Video editing and graphic design skills
• SEO and analytics knowledge
• Experience with WordPress or similar CMS platforms
• Understanding and knowledge of using social media publishing tools.
• Deep understanding of digital media best practices, including SEO and GEO.
• Have a strong command of the English language, with the ability to correct and enhance spelling, grammar and creative writing.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure clean copy across platforms.

• Rugby expertise - Deep knowledge and genuine passion for rugby
• Journalism experience - Proven writing and content creation skills
• Digital content management - Experience with CMS platforms and website publishing
• Social media savvy - Strong understanding of social platforms and content creation
• Breaking news experience - Ability to work under pressure and tight deadlines
• Weekend availability - Flexible to work during major rugby events and weekends
• Good time management and the ability to multitask effectively and follow through.
• Strong organisational, administrative and communication skills.
• Ability to source, evaluate and interpret relevant data.
• Logical thinker who can analyse situations and come up with the right solutions.
• Ability to work under pressure due to intense online environment.
• Able to make sound decisions independently and within teams.
• Reliable, inquisitive, and proactive in fast-paced environments.