Media Relations Specialist

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 21,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Medical and dental coverage

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Media Relations Specialist to join our team in Welkom, Free State. This hybrid role blends in-office collaboration with remote work flexibility, focusing on building media relationships, crafting press materials, and handling inquiries to shape a strong public image.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree in communications or related field and 3–5 years of media relations experience, with a proven record of securing placements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in media relations or PR.
• Demonstrated success in securing media placements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong understanding of the media landscape and current events.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a hybrid setting.
• Proficiency in media monitoring tools and techniques.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience in crafting persuasive pitches and press materials.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute media relations strategies to achieve communication objectives.
• Identify and cultivate relationships with key journalists, editors, and media influencers.
• Write and distribute compelling press releases, media advisories, and statements.
• Pitch story ideas to media outlets and secure favorable press coverage.
• Respond to media inquiries and manage interview requests.
• Monitor media coverage and analyze results, providing regular reports.
• Assist in developing and implementing crisis communication plans.
• Create and maintain an updated media contact database.
• Collaborate with the internal communications team to align messaging.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Media relations

Pitching

Crisis communication

Education

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

Job description

About the Role Our client is looking for a dynamic Media Relations Specialist to join their team in Welkom, Free State. This hybrid role combines the flexibility of remote work with the collaborative benefits of in-office engagement. You will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with media outlets, pitching stories, and managing press inquiries to enhance our client's public image. The ideal candidate possesses excellent communication skills, a strategic mindset, and a proven ability to secure positive media coverage. This position is critical in shaping how the public perceives our client and requires a proactive individual who can navigate the fast-paced media landscape effectively. You will work to proactively identify opportunities for positive media engagement and respond swiftly to developing news cycles.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute media relations strategies to achieve communication objectives.
• Identify and cultivate relationships with key journalists, editors, and media influencers.
• Write and distribute compelling press releases, media advisories, and statements.
• Pitch story ideas to media outlets and secure favorable press coverage.
• Respond to media inquiries and manage interview requests.
• Monitor media coverage and analyze results, providing regular reports.
• Assist in developing and implementing crisis communication plans.
• Create and maintain an updated media contact database.
• Collaborate with the internal communications team to align messaging.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in media relations or PR.
• Demonstrated success in securing media placements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong understanding of the media landscape and current events.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a hybrid setting.
• Proficiency in media monitoring tools and techniques.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience in crafting persuasive pitches and press materials.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R per annum.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility.
• Medical and dental coverage.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Work proximity to Welkom.
• Collaborative team environment.