Public Relations Director

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 107,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Career advancement

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Public Relations Director to lead strategic communications for a hybrid role based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will set the PR agenda, guide crisis communications, and build strong media relationships while aligning with corporate goals.

The ideal candidate brings 8–12 years of progressive PR experience, including 4 years in a director or senior management role, with a proven track record in high-visibility campaigns and leadership across cross-functional

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• 8–12 years of progressive PR experience with at least 4 years in a director or senior management role.
• Proven success in developing and executing complex, high-visibility PR campaigns.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven expertise in crisis communications, reputation management, and media relations.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication with persuasive storytelling.
• Experience managing teams and budgets effectively.
• Experience with PR software, media monitoring tools, and digital platforms.
• Ability to thrive in a hybrid work environment and lead remotely and in person.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement overarching PR strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Lead and mentor the PR team, fostering excellence and innovation.
• Oversee all media relations activities, proactive pitching and reactive management.
• Serve as a key advisor to senior leadership on PR and reputation management.
• Direct crisis communication efforts with timely, effective responses.
• Cultivate relations with national and international media outlets and influencers.
• Oversee creation of PR materials ensuring quality and brand consistency.
• Monitor industry trends and provide strategic insights.
• Manage the PR budget and allocate resources effectively.
• Collaborate with marketing, legal, and other departments for integrated communications.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Media relations

Crisis communications

Stakeholder management

Team leadership

Budget management

Education

Master's degree

Tools

PR software

Media monitoring tools

Digital comms platforms

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a seasoned and strategic Public Relations Director to lead their communications efforts in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This senior role requires a visionary leader with extensive experience in developing and executing high-impact PR strategies, managing corporate reputation, and overseeing media relations. As a hybrid position, you will leverage the flexibility of remote work while also engaging with teams and stakeholders at our Mossel Bay office. You will be responsible for setting the PR agenda, guiding crisis communications, cultivating relationships with key media figures, and ensuring a consistent and compelling brand narrative across all platforms. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional leadership qualities, a deep understanding of global communication trends, and a proven track record of success in a demanding PR environment. This is a leadership opportunity to significantly influence our client's brand presence and reputation in the Western Cape and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement overarching public relations strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Lead and mentor the public relations team, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
• Oversee all media relations activities, including proactive pitching and reactive management.
• Serve as a key advisor to senior leadership on PR matters and reputation management.
• Manage and direct crisis communication efforts, ensuring timely and effective responses.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with national and international media outlets and key influencers.
• Oversee the creation of all PR materials, ensuring quality, accuracy, and brand consistency.
• Monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and public sentiment, providing strategic insights.
• Manage the PR budget and allocate resources effectively.
• Collaborate closely with marketing, legal, and other departments to ensure integrated communications.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8-12 years of progressive experience in public relations, with at least 4 years in a director or senior management role.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing complex, high-visibility PR campaigns.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven expertise in crisis communications, reputation management, and media relations.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for persuasive storytelling.
• Experience managing teams and budgets effectively.
• Proficiency with PR software, media monitoring tools, and digital communication platforms.
• Ability to thrive in a hybrid work environment, demonstrating strong leadership and collaboration skills remotely and in-person.
• Experience within the Mossel Bay, Western Cape region is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers an executive-level compensation package, including a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a robust retirement savings plan.
• Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid work model, combining remote work efficiency with valuable in-office collaboration in Mossel Bay, Western Cape .
• Significant opportunities for professional development, leadership training, and industry engagement are provided.
• As a director, you will have substantial influence and opportunities for career advancement within the organization.
• Generous paid time off and a commitment to work-life balance are core values.
• Our client is dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive leadership team in the Western Cape .