Wanted: 'American-speaking' actor to make fictitious news broadcasts

http://www.theguardian.com/media/greenslade/2014/jan/06/sweden-job-hunting

Version 0 of 1.

Does this qualify as the most bizarre journalism advert of all time? Wanted by the Swedish army: an "American-speaking" actor to portray a news anchor who must make fictitious broadcasts.

In addition, four fake field reporters - also "American speaking (native fluent or equivalent)" - are being sought. Experience of broadcasting is essential. Knowledge of Swedish is not.

The advert, on the website of a Swedish employment office, is serious. It explains that the five people are needed to train officers engaged in multinational peace-keeping operations.

They will take part in "a virtual scenario" that "includes the entire spectrum in the operations area, both military and civilian conditions, including broadcast media."

It adds: "The exercises are conducted in English." (Or should that be American?)

Evidently, anyone can apply. Carl Edelhjelm, head of the Swedish armed forces' media relations training, told the Stockholm-based paper, Expressen: "Both volunteers, actors and media professionals are welcome to apply for the roles."

The pay, at 1988 kronor (£187) per day, is hardly generous. But there are perks: free meals, free travel and the possibility of spending the night in a "private room" at the Enköping army base in eastern Sweden. Don't all rush.

<em>Sources:</em> The Local/Arbetsförmedlingen/Expressen

Our editors' picks for the day's top news and commentary delivered to your inbox each morning.