Communications Director

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Executive bonus potential

Long-term incentives

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Communications Director in Stellenbosch to lead strategic corporate communications, media relations, and internal messaging. You will guide a team of specialists, shape brand narrative, and align communications with business goals in a hybrid work setting.

The role demands a proven track record in developing comprehensive communication strategies, crisis management, and budget oversight for large organisations.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• 10+ years in communications with 5+ years in leadership.
• Proven success in strategic communication for prominent organisations.
• Experience in media relations, crisis communications, and public affairs.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement overarching communication strategies across media, public affairs, internal comms and digital engagement.
• Lead and mentor a team of communication professionals in a collaborative, high-performance environment.
• Oversee media relations and act as primary spokesperson when needed.
• Direct external communications including press releases, annual reports, and collateral.
• Develop crisis plans and provide timely strategic responses.
• Ensure consistent brand voice across channels and manage the communications budget.
• Build relationships with media outlets, influencers and stakeholders.
• Align internal communications with employee engagement and business goals.
• Monitor industry trends and competitor messaging for strategic insights.

Skills

Leadership

Media relations

Strategic thinking

Crisis communications

Internal communications

Budget management

Team management

Stakeholder relations

Education

Master's degree in Communications/PR/Journ/Marketing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading force in the Media & PR sector, is seeking a visionary Communications Director to spearhead their strategic communication initiatives. This pivotal role, based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape , operates on a hybrid model, fostering both in-person collaboration and remote flexibility. The Communications Director will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our client's public image, media relations, and internal communications. This leadership position demands a seasoned professional with a proven ability to develop and execute comprehensive communication strategies that enhance brand reputation and achieve business objectives. You will lead a team of communication specialists, drive impactful campaigns, and serve as a key advisor to senior management on all communication-related matters. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the narrative of a prominent organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement overarching communication strategies, encompassing media relations, public affairs, internal communications, and digital engagement.
• Lead and mentor a team of communication professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Manage all media relations, acting as a primary point of contact and spokesperson as needed.
• Oversee the creation and dissemination of all external communications, including press releases, annual reports, and marketing collateral.
• Develop and execute crisis communication plans, providing timely and strategic responses.
• Ensure consistent brand messaging and voice across all communication channels.
• Manage the communications budget effectively, optimizing resource allocation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media outlets, industry influencers, and stakeholders.
• Oversee internal communication strategies to ensure alignment and engagement among employees.
• Monitor industry trends and competitor communications, providing strategic insights and recommendations.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in communications, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial role.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies for reputable organizations.
• Proven experience in media relations, crisis communications, and public affairs.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Outstanding written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Strong understanding of digital communication channels and social media strategy.
• Experience in managing budgets and external agencies.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, balancing strategic leadership with operational oversight.
• Strategic thinking and a proven ability to translate business goals into effective communication plans.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package, including significant bonus potential and long-term incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided for employees and their dependents.
• The hybrid work model offers a desirable blend of office-based collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development are extensive, including executive coaching, leadership training, and attendance at prestigious industry forums.
• Our client provides a generous annual leave allowance, retirement savings plan, and other executive perks.
• A stimulating and professional work environment awaits, with ample opportunities for career advancement and significant impact within the organization.