The inaugural Singapore Press Club Generations bi-monthly talk show kicked off Oct 13 with a lively hour-long panel discussion on The Changing Role of The News Editor in the digital age and with the changes brought about by the pandemic. 

With a combined newsroom experience of over 40 years - Zakir Hussain (Singapore Editor at The Straits Times), Wang Shuyang (Digital Content Editor Chinese Media Group Newshub, SPH) and Julie Gerstein (Singapore Bureau Chief, Insider Inc) joined moderator Oo Gin Lee in discussing a variety of issues around the modern newsroom.

Panelists spoke about how the newsroom structure has changed - with hybrid work arrangements necessitated by the pandemic bringing with it new considerations when running the newsdesk. Onboarding of new staff, keeping team spirits high, staff bonding and taking special note of the mental health of reporters became prime considerations in the new normal.

The big shift to digital has raised many concerns around balancing the need for speed while maintaining accuracy of reporting. While being first with the news is important to grab the eyeballs, this should not compromise the journalistic quest for staying true and accurate.

The zoom session was attended by over 50 Singapore Press Club members and associates, with a lively Q&A session following the panel discussion. 

To watch the hour-long Generations talk show click here.