Communications Manager - Brand Storytelling

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Medical aid coverage

Training programs

Growth opportunities

Leave allowance

Annual bonus

Work-life balance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a strategic Communications Manager to lead a team in George, Western Cape. The role focuses on developing and executing compelling communication strategies to elevate the brand narrative and engage key audiences.

The ideal candidate will have 6–8 years in communications management, strong storytelling, and proven media relations experience, including crisis management. This position offers growth opportunities and a supportive work culture in the Garden Route region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field Required.
• Minimum 6–8 years of experience in communications management or a similar role.
• Proven ability to develop and implement effective communication strategies and campaigns.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong storytelling ability.
• Proven experience in media relations, including press releases, media pitching, and crisis management.
• Strong understanding of digital channels, social media, and content marketing.
• Experience leading a team and fostering collaboration.
• Ability to think strategically, solve problems creatively, and perform under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement integrated communication strategies aligned with organizational goals and brand identity.
• Oversee creation of all external and internal communications: press releases, speeches, website content, social media, and newsletters.
• Manage media relations and maintain relationships with journalists and outlets.
• Develop proactive media outreach to secure coverage and manage reputational risks.
• Serve as primary contact for media inquiries and coordinate interviews with spokespersons.
• Monitor media coverage and social channels; analyze trends for leadership insights.
• Develop crisis communication plans and provide swift responses during significant events.
• Collaborate with marketing, sales and other departments for cohesive messaging.
• Manage communications budget and vendor relationships.
• Lead and mentor a team of communication specialists.

Skills

Media relations

Press releases

Crisis management

Storytelling

Strategic thinking

Team leadership

Education

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

Master's degree

Tools

Media monitoring tools

Digital marketing channels

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent leader in the media industry, is looking for a strategic and creative Communications Manager to lead their team based in George, Western Cape . This role is central to developing and executing compelling communication strategies that elevate our client's brand narrative and engage key audiences. You will be responsible for crafting the company's voice, managing its public perception, and ensuring consistent messaging across all platforms. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the media landscape and a proven ability to translate business objectives into impactful communication campaigns. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a growing organization located in the beautiful Garden Route region of South Africa .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement integrated communication strategies aligned with organizational goals and brand identity.
• Oversee the creation of all external and internal communications, including press releases, speeches, website content, social media updates, and newsletters.
• Manage the company's media relations, building and maintaining positive relationships with journalists and media outlets.
• Develop and execute a proactive media outreach plan to secure positive coverage and manage reputational risks.
• Serve as a key point of contact for media inquiries and facilitate interviews with company spokespersons.
• Monitor media coverage and social media channels, analyzing trends and providing insights to senior leadership.
• Develop crisis communication plans and provide swift, effective responses during significant events.
• Collaborate with marketing, sales, and other departments to ensure cohesive messaging and brand alignment.
• Manage the communications budget and vendor relationships.
• Lead and mentor a team of communication specialists.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• A minimum of 6-8 years of experience in communications management, public relations, or a similar role.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing effective communication strategies and campaigns.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong command of storytelling and narrative development.
• Proven experience in media relations, including press release writing, media pitching, and crisis management.
• Strong understanding of digital communication channels, social media, and content marketing.
• Experience managing a team and fostering a collaborative work environment.
• Ability to think strategically, solve problems creatively, and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and analysis tools.
• Knowledge of the Western Cape media landscape is highly preferred.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary package, commensurate with your experience and skills.
• Full medical aid coverage, including hospital plans and a wellness program, is part of the comprehensive benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth include access to advanced training and development programs.
• You will be part of a supportive and innovative work culture in George , Western Cape , working on impactful projects.
• Generous annual leave allowance and an annual performance bonus are also provided.
• Our client is committed to work-life balance, offering a conducive environment for career advancement.