Media Relations Officer

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 38,000 - 51,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Media Relations Officer in Queenstown to boost visibility for a dynamic non-profit focused on community development. You will craft press content, pitch to media outlets, and nurture relationships with journalists and editors.

The role emphasizes storytelling, strategic outreach, and proactive communication across local and regional media to advance the organization’s mission and impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in media relations, journalism, or communications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to craft engaging content.
• Strong understanding of the media landscape, especially in the Eastern Cape region.
• Experience in building and maintaining media relationships.
• Proficiency with MS Office and media monitoring tools.
• Excellent organizational and project management abilities.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• A passion for the organization’s mission and public service.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement media relations strategies to increase visibility.
• Cultivate relationships with journalists, editors, and broadcast producers.
• Write and distribute press releases and media advisories.
• Pitch stories to local, regional, and national media.
• Monitor coverage and report placements and themes.
• Coordinate interviews and media appearances for spokespeople.
• Assist with communication materials including website content and social updates.
• Support press conferences and public events.
• Manage media contact lists and databases.
• Assist with crisis communication as needed.

Skills

Media relations

Press materials

Stakeholder management

Journalistic writing

Event coordination

Storytelling

Education

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

Tools

MS Office

Media monitoring tools

Cision

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic non-profit organization focused on community development, is seeking a dedicated Media Relations Officer to enhance their public profile and outreach. This role is based in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . The Media Relations Officer will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with local and regional media, crafting compelling press materials, and ensuring effective communication of the organization's mission and impact. The ideal candidate is passionate about community engagement, possesses strong journalistic or PR skills, and has a knack for storytelling. You will play a vital role in amplifying our message and connecting with the communities we serve. This position requires someone who is proactive, has excellent communication skills, and is committed to making a difference.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement media relations strategies to increase organizational visibility.
• Cultivate and maintain positive relationships with journalists, editors, and broadcast producers.
• Write and distribute press releases, media advisories, and success stories.
• Pitch stories and features to local, regional, and potentially national media outlets.
• Monitor media coverage and report on key placements and themes.
• Coordinate interviews and media appearances for organization spokespersons.
• Assist in the development of communication materials, including website content and social media updates.
• Support the planning and execution of press conferences and public events.
• Manage media contact lists and databases.
• Assist with crisis communication efforts as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in media relations, journalism, or communications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to write clear and engaging content.
• Strong understanding of the media landscape, particularly within the Eastern Cape region.
• Experience in building and maintaining media relationships.
• Proficiency in MS Office and familiarity with media monitoring tools.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A passion for the organization's mission and a commitment to public service.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and opportunities for professional development. This role is based in our Queenstown, Eastern Cape office, providing a stable and supportive work environment. Employees benefit from a collaborative team culture, meaningful work that contributes to the community, and opportunities to attend relevant training and workshops. Join an organization dedicated to positive social impact and grow your career in media relations.