Crisis Communications Manager

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Global organization exposure

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Crisis Communications Manager to develop and oversee crisis communication strategies, safeguarding corporate reputation. You will coordinate with executives, legal, and operations, acting as the primary media liaison during crises in a hybrid Queenstown-based role.

The ideal candidate has extensive crisis management experience, exceptional judgment, and superior written/verbal communication. Flexible to respond to incidents at any time, including off-hours.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• Master’s degree is a significant asset.

Responsibilities

• Develop, update, and maintain crisis communication plans and protocols.
• Lead coordination during crisis situations, managing internal and external communications.
• Act as primary media spokesperson or liaison during crises, ensuring timely and accurate information.
• Collaborate with executive leadership, legal counsel, and operations to develop crisis messaging.
• Conduct risk assessments to identify potential reputational threats.
• Manage media monitoring and analysis during critical events.
• Provide training and guidance to spokespersons on crisis communication best practices.
• Build and maintain relationships with key media contacts and stakeholders.
• Debrief after crisis events to identify lessons learned and improve responses.
• Stay current on best practices in crisis communications and reputation management.

Skills

Crisis management

Media relations

Executive communication

Stakeholder collaboration

Calm under pressure

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications/Public Relations/Journalism or related field

Master's degree (asset)

Tools

Media monitoring tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a multinational corporation with significant operations in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, is seeking a seasoned Crisis Communications Manager to join their dedicated team. This critical role is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing robust crisis communication strategies to protect the company's reputation during challenging situations. You will be the central point of contact for all crisis-related media inquiries, working closely with executive leadership, legal, and relevant departments to ensure swift, accurate, and sensitive communication. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional judgment, a calm demeanor under pressure, and a deep understanding of corporate reputation management. This position offers a Hybrid work arrangement, combining essential on-site presence in Queenstown with remote work flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, update, and maintain comprehensive crisis communication plans and protocols.
• Serve as a lead coordinator during crisis situations, managing internal and external communications.
• Act as a primary media spokesperson or liaison during crises, ensuring timely and accurate information dissemination.
• Collaborate with executive leadership, legal counsel, and operational teams to develop crisis messaging.
• Conduct risk assessments and proactive planning to identify potential reputational threats.
• Manage media monitoring and analysis during critical events.
• Provide training and guidance to spokespersons and key personnel on crisis communication best practices.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts and stakeholders.
• Debrief after crisis events to identify lessons learned and improve future responses.
• Stay current on best practices in crisis communications and reputation management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field. A Master's degree is a significant asset.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in public relations, communications, with a significant focus on crisis management.
• Proven track record of successfully managing high-stakes crisis communication scenarios.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, concise, and impactful messages under pressure.
• Strong understanding of media relations and journalistic processes.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and make critical decisions in fast-paced environments.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Experience with media monitoring and analysis tools.
• Flexibility to respond to crises at any time, including off-hours.
• Knowledge of the Eastern Cape media landscape is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflecting the critical nature of the role.
• Opportunity to protect and enhance corporate reputation in critical situations.
• Hybrid work model for a balance of office and remote work.
• Work with a stable and reputable global organization.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Be part of a vital team ensuring organizational resilience.