Corporate Media Relations Manager

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement annuity

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Corporate Media Relations Manager based in Durban to lead strategic media relations efforts, shape brand messaging, and guide PR initiatives across national, regional, and trade media. This senior role requires a seasoned professional with crisis management and executive media coaching experience.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s in Communications (Master’s preferred), at least 7 years in corporate communications, and deep knowledge of the South African media

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications or related field required.
• Minimum 7 years in corporate communications or PR.
• Experience with large organizations preferred.
• Strong writing and interpersonal skills.
• Deep knowledge of the Durban/South Africa media landscape.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic media relations plans.
• Build relationships with national, regional, and trade media.
• Prepare executives for media interviews and provide strategic counsel.
• Craft press releases, statements, backgrounders, and media materials.
• Proactively pitch compelling stories and manage media opportunities.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze trends, and report on outcomes.
• Develop and execute crisis communication plans, acting as a key spokesperson.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure consistent messaging.
• Organize press conferences, media briefings, and related events.

Skills

Media relations

Public relations

Crisis communication

Media writing

Stakeholder management

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's in Communications

Master's degree advantageous

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent organization within the industrial sector, is seeking an experienced and strategic Corporate Media Relations Manager to lead their public relations initiatives. Based in the bustling city of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , this role is essential for shaping and protecting the company's image through proactive and reactive media engagement. You will be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive media relations strategy, fostering strong relationships with journalists, and ensuring consistent, positive brand messaging across all platforms. This is a critical leadership position requiring a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of the media landscape and a proven ability to manage complex communication challenges. Join a dedicated team and play a vital role in our client's continued success and public perception.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic media relations plans to support corporate objectives.
• Build and maintain strong, trusting relationships with key media contacts across national, regional, and trade publications.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for media inquiries, providing timely and accurate information.
• Craft high-quality press releases, statements, backgrounders, and other media materials.
• Proactively pitch compelling stories and manage media opportunities to enhance brand visibility.
• Prepare senior executives for media interviews and provide strategic counsel.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze trends, and report on outcomes, providing insights for future strategies.
• Develop and execute crisis communication plans, acting as a key spokesperson when necessary.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure consistent messaging and communication alignment.
• Organize press conferences, media briefings, and other related events.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in corporate communications, media relations, or public relations, preferably within a large organization.
• Demonstrated success in building and managing media relationships and securing positive coverage.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and interpersonal communication skills.
• In-depth knowledge of the media landscape in Durban and broader South Africa.
• Proven ability to develop and execute strategic media plans.
• Experience in crisis communication and media management under pressure.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate complex information into clear messaging.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Discretion and sound judgment in handling sensitive information.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, reflective of the seniority of the role, along with comprehensive benefits including medical aid, a retirement annuity fund, and opportunities for professional development.
• This position is based on-site in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , allowing for close collaboration with internal teams and direct engagement with the local media community.
• Employees will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and will work within a supportive environment dedicated to fostering career advancement in the Media & PR field.