Communications and Public Affairs Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Professional growth opportunities

Office in Polokwane, Limpopo

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Communications and Public Affairs Manager for its Polokwane, Limpopo regional office. The role involves shaping strategic communication plans, leading media relations, and advocating with government officials to advance development programs in the region.

You will supervise external channels, craft policy briefs, engage stakeholders, and provide strategic guidance to senior management.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in International Relations, Public Policy, Communications, Political Science, or a related field.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in communications, public affairs, or government relations, preferably in non-profit or international development.
• Proven experience in developing and executing successful public affairs and communication strategies.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with policy writing and advocacy experience.
• Strong understanding of government relations, policy processes, and stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with high-level officials and stakeholders.
• Excellent analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Experience managing media relations and public perception.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of local languages in Limpopo is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive communication and public affairs strategies.
• Manage media relations, including press releases, media outreach, and crisis communication.
• Engage with government officials, policymakers, and community leaders on behalf of the agency.
• Craft policy briefs, advocacy materials, and public statements.
• Organise and manage public forums, stakeholder meetings, and advocacy events.
• Monitor legislative and policy developments impacting the agency.
• Oversee the agency's external communications channels, including website and social media.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders and partners.
• Provide strategic communication advice to senior management and program teams.
• Ensure accurate and consistent messaging across all public-facing communications.

Skills

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Policy understanding

Strategic thinking

Public affairs

Media relations

Education

Master's degree

Tools

MS Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent international development agency, is seeking an experienced Communications and Public Affairs Manager for their regional office in Polokwane, Limpopo. This senior role is responsible for developing and executing strategic communication plans, managing public relations, and engaging with government bodies and key stakeholders to advance the agency's objectives. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of public affairs, policy communication, and international development landscapes. You will lead initiatives to enhance the agency's visibility, advocate for its programs, and ensure effective dialogue with diverse audiences in the Limpopo province and surrounding areas. This position requires a dedicated professional committed to making a difference and working collaboratively within a mission-driven organization based in Polokwane.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive communication and public affairs strategies.
• Manage media relations, including press releases, media outreach, and crisis communication.
• Engage with government officials, policymakers, and community leaders on behalf of the agency.
• Craft policy briefs, advocacy materials, and public statements.
• Organise and manage public forums, stakeholder meetings, and advocacy events.
• Monitor legislative and policy developments impacting the agency's work.
• Oversee the agency's external communications channels, including website and social media.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders and partners.
• Provide strategic communication advice to senior management and program teams.
• Ensure accurate and consistent messaging across all public-facing communications.

Requirements

• Master's degree in International Relations, Public Policy, Communications, Political Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in communications, public affairs, or government relations, preferably in the non-profit or international development sector.
• Proven experience in developing and executing successful public affairs and communication strategies.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with experience in policy writing and advocacy.
• Strong understanding of government relations, policy processes, and stakeholder engagement.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with high-level officials and stakeholders.
• Excellent analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Experience managing media relations and public perception.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and relevant communication tools.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of local languages in Limpopo is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package, and the opportunity to work on impactful international development initiatives.
• Employees are based in Polokwane, Limpopo, and are part of a dedicated team working towards positive social change.
• We provide ample opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Join a respected agency committed to making a global impact from the heart of Limpopo.
• This role offers significant professional challenges and rewards for a driven individual.