Senior Media Relations Manager

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

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Flexible location

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking aSenior Media Relations Manager to lead external communications strategy for a rapidly growing non-profit. This fully remote role focuses on national and international media, shaping public narratives and driving mission impact from any location with strong ties to Queenstown-based operations.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in media relations or PR, exceptional journalist relationships, and proven crisis communications experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years in media relations, PR, or journalism with a proven track record.
• Proven ability to secure prominent media coverage for important causes.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with persuasiveness.
• Experience in crisis communications and reputation management.
• Deep understanding of social media integration with traditional media.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive media relations strategy to enhance the organization's visibility and reputation.
• Build and maintain strong, proactive relationships with journalists, editors, and producers across print, broadcast, and digital media.
• Craft compelling press releases, media alerts, pitch angles, and success stories that align with the organization's mission.
• Secure high-profile media placements in national and international outlets.
• Serve as a primary media contact, managing inquiries and facilitating interviews with organizational spokespersons.
• Develop and execute crisis communication plans, providing strategic guidance during sensitive situations.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze trends, and provide regular reports to senior leadership.
• Collaborate with program teams to identify communication opportunities and translate complex information into accessible stories.
• Advise on public affairs and policy communications to support advocacy efforts.
• Stay abreast of the evolving media landscape and identify innovative ways to reach target audiences.

Skills

Media relations

Strategic communications

Crisis communications

Storytelling/writing

Social media integration

Remote work self-management

Relationship-building

Education

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

Master's degree preferred

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing non-profit organization dedicated to social impact and development, is seeking a seasoned Senior Media Relations Manager to lead its external communications strategy. This is a critical, fully remote position, responsible for shaping the organization's public perception and amplifying its mission across national and international media platforms, supporting our base operations near Queenstown, Eastern Cape . You will be tasked with building and nurturing relationships with key journalists and media outlets, developing compelling narratives, and managing media responses during crucial campaigns and events. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of media dynamics, exceptional strategic thinking, and a proven ability to secure prominent media coverage for important causes. This role demands a proactive, mission-driven individual passionate about making a difference through effective communication, working from anywhere.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive media relations strategy to enhance the organization's visibility and reputation.
• Build and maintain strong, proactive relationships with journalists, editors, and producers across print, broadcast, and digital media.
• Craft compelling press releases, media alerts, pitch angles, and success stories that align with the organization's mission.
• Secure high-profile media placements in national and international outlets.
• Serve as a primary media contact, managing inquiries and facilitating interviews with organizational spokespersons.
• Develop and execute crisis communication plans, providing strategic guidance during sensitive situations.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze trends, and provide regular reports to senior leadership.
• Collaborate with program teams to identify communication opportunities and translate complex information into accessible stories.
• Advise on public affairs and policy communications to support the organization's advocacy efforts.
• Stay abreast of the evolving media landscape and identify innovative ways to reach target audiences.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Political Science, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in media relations, public relations, or journalism, with a proven track record of success.
• Exceptional media relations skills with an established network of contacts across key national and international media.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic media campaigns that achieve measurable results.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for crafting persuasive and impactful messages.
• Experience in crisis communications and reputation management.
• Strong understanding of social media and its integration with traditional media relations.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment, demonstrating strong self-management.
• A deep commitment to the organization's mission and values.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, excellent health benefits, and a generous retirement savings plan. This role is fully remote, providing significant flexibility and the opportunity to work from your preferred location. You will have the chance to make a tangible impact on important social issues and work with a dedicated, passionate team. Professional development opportunities are encouraged to foster growth and skill enhancement. Join an organization committed to positive change and be a key voice in its public narrative, supporting our central mission from anywhere, while aligned with our operational hubs near Queenstown, Eastern Cape .