Communications Director

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 2,500,000 - 5,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Health insurance

Leadership training and development

Generous paid time off

Stock options or equity participation

Remote work (fully)

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a visionary Communications Director to lead our client’s communications strategy from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior role requires strategic leadership to shape public image, manage media relations, and drive stakeholder engagement across platforms.

The ideal candidate has a Master’s in Communications and 10+ years in PR/communications, including leadership, with a proven record of integrated campaigns for large organizations.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Communications or related field is required.
• 10+ years in communications/PR with at least 5 years in leadership.
• Proven track record in integrated communication strategies for large orgs.
• Extensive media relations, corporate comms and crisis management experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; media spokesperson experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee the overall communications strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Lead corporate communications, media relations, public affairs, and internal comms.
• Direct the PR team and mentor staff for professional growth.
• Serve as primary media spokesperson and manage relationships with key outlets.
• Develop crisis communication plans to protect and enhance reputation.
• Create compelling content across press releases, speeches and digital channels.
• Monitor and report on communication effectiveness to senior leadership.
• Ensure consistent brand voice across internal and external communications.
• Oversee communication budgets and resources and advise executives.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Crisis management

Media relations

Verbal & written communication

Spokesperson experience

Education

Master's degree in Communications

Tools

Analytics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the media sector, is seeking a visionary Communications Director to spearhead their communications strategy from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior leadership position requires a strategic thinker with a proven ability to build and manage impactful communication programs that enhance brand reputation and stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in developing and executing integrated communication plans, managing corporate communications, and leading PR initiatives. You will be responsible for shaping our client's public image, managing media relations, and ensuring consistent messaging across all platforms. This is a crucial role for someone passionate about the power of communication to drive business success, offering a chance to make a significant impact in a dynamic industry. The role demands a high level of professionalism, strategic foresight, and the ability to inspire and lead a team. We are looking for a candidate who can navigate complex communication challenges and deliver exceptional results for our client.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee the implementation of the overall communications strategy, aligning with business objectives.
• Lead the corporate communications function, including media relations, public affairs, and internal communications.
• Manage and direct the PR team, providing guidance and fostering professional growth.
• Serve as a primary media spokesperson and manage relationships with key media outlets.
• Develop and execute crisis communication plans to protect and enhance the company's reputation.
• Oversee the creation of compelling content across various channels, including press releases, speeches, and digital platforms.
• Monitor and analyze communication effectiveness, reporting key insights to senior leadership.
• Ensure consistent brand messaging and voice across all internal and external communications.
• Manage communication budgets and resources efficiently.
• Advise senior executives on communication strategies and potential risks.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in communications and public relations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record of developing and executing successful, integrated communication strategies for large organizations.
• Extensive experience in media relations, corporate communications, and crisis management.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience as a media spokesperson.
• Strong understanding of the South African media landscape and public affairs.
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams and collaborate effectively with cross-functional stakeholders.
• Proficiency in communication technologies and analytics tools.
• A reputation for integrity and professional excellence.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package, reflecting the seniority of the role, along with significant bonus potential tied to performance.
• A comprehensive executive health insurance plan is provided.
• Opportunities for advanced leadership training and development are a key part of the benefits package.
• Generous paid time off and flexible working arrangements are encouraged to promote work-life balance.
• Employees are offered stock options or equity participation as part of their compensation.
• This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere.
• A relocation assistance package may be available for candidates relocating to Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

Join our client and lead the communication efforts in the vibrant KwaZulu-Natal region.