South Asia Correspondent – 2-Year Contract

About the role

The Karachi-based correspondent will report on business, technology, economic and social issues across Pakistan for CNA Digital, with some stories also appearing on CNA’s TV and radio platforms. The role will expand to cover news throughout South Asia as the organisation grows its regional presence.

Key responsibilities

• Monitor news developments in Pakistan and the wider region and provide timely, concise updates for editorial decisions.
• Plan and oversee Pakistan‑related coverage, including stories, series and events.
• Produce a steady flow of original news, feature, analysis, commentary and special‑project stories that meet high editorial standards.
• File deliverables such as live hits, news stories, feature packages and multi‑part series under the guidance of Singapore‑based desk editors.
• Build and maintain a reliable network of government officials, business leaders, analysts and existing partners in Pakistan.
• Liaise with Pakistani officials inside and outside the country, representing CNA professionally.
• Identify and pitch impactful story ideas, travel as required and work irregular hours.
• Provide input to senior editors for forward planning of major events.
• Contribute to CNA’s adoption of new technology, social‑media and AI tools where applicable.

Required profile

• Minimum 7 years of full‑time journalism experience in Pakistan (Karachi experience a plus).
• Extensive network of contacts in Pakistan’s government, business and media sectors.
• Strong interest in current affairs across Pakistan and South Asia.
• Outstanding writing and newsgathering abilities with a tenacious spirit.
• Sound understanding of geopolitical sensitivities and potential red lines.
• Native‑level proficiency in English and fluency in Urdu.
• Independent operator with solid interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in a team.
• Experience with visual, AI or social‑media tools is a plus.
• Willingness to travel within Karachi and elsewhere in Pakistan and to work irregular hours.

Required skills