Enterprise Operations Cross Communications Leader, Ibm Africa Professional Johannesburg, Za

Avature; Johannesburg; On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company seeks a communications lead in Johannesburg to enhance its brand and reputation in the MEA region. You will manage internal and external communication strategies, focusing on media relations and content creation. This role requires a Bachelor's degree, strong communications expertise, and the ability to align messaging with regional market needs. Join a culture of growth and innovation at IBM, where you can impact the tech landscape while fostering collaborative teamwork.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required with strong communication strategies experience.
• Fluency in English is essential; proficiency in French/Arabic is a plus.
• Ability to design integrated communication plans for business growth.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute integrated internal and external communication strategies.
• Build relationships with media and drive visibility through strategic engagements.
• Create compelling content for diverse communication channels.

Skills

Communication expertise

Cultural awareness

Content creation

Media relations

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Advanced degrees preferred

Job description

At IBM, we believe technology shapes the world, and we are a catalyst for innovation and creativity.

We are at the forefront of groundbreaking change—improving businesses, society, and the human condition.

As a leader in Hybrid Cloud and AI, we are driving a global digital transformation. Our Marketing, Communications & Corporate Social Responsibility (MCC) team tells this story and is responsible for positioning IBM in the market.

We define and optimize IBM's brand, capture market attention, and articulate our point of view for clients, partners, the media, and IBM employees.

Join our team of bright minds and collaborative colleagues—passionate about work that inspires our audience to choose IBM. Experience a culture of openness, collaboration, and trust where you can co-create your learning and opportunities.

We treasure teamwork and unique ideas.

Bring innovation to life with us.

Role and Responsibilities

This South Africa-based Communications role serves as IBM's voice to key stakeholders—including clients, employees, media, analysts, partners, and sellers—while providing valuable local insights to the business. As the local communications lead, you will develop and execute integrated internal and external communication strategies supporting IBM's brand, reputation, and growth across the MEA region.

You will ensure IBM's messaging is relevant, consistent, and aligned with regional market needs and global objectives.

External Communications

• Develop and execute an integrated external communications strategy aligned with regional and global goals.
• Localize global messaging for cultural and market relevance across Africa.
• Build and maintain relationships with local and regional media, journalists, and social influencers.
• Drive media engagement, coordinate interviews, and manage media events to enhance visibility.
• Maintain communication with external stakeholders including partners, industry bodies, regulators, and government organizations.
• Support advocacy and thought leadership initiatives.
• Create compelling content for press releases, executive bylines, blogs, and social media.
• Manage external communication channels and lead crisis communication efforts.
• Act as a key contact during unforeseen issues to protect IBM's reputation.
• Maintain understanding of the African business landscape, socio-political climate, and cultural nuances.

Internal Communications

• Develop and implement internal communication strategies to align employees with company goals across South Africa and MEA.
• Create and deliver content across multiple channels.
• Foster employee engagement, inclusivity, and collaboration.
• Support regional executives with speechwriting, presentations, and talking points for internal events.
• Coordinate logistics for internal events.
• Track and analyze communication effectiveness using KPIs and feedback.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required; advanced degrees preferred.
• Strong communications expertise, with experience in internal and external strategies within the tech or IT sector.
• Fluency in English; proficiency in French and/or Arabic is an asset.
• Proven ability to develop clear, consistent messaging across channels.
• Experience designing and executing integrated communication plans supporting business growth.
• Ability to collaborate across multicultural teams including marketing, HR, sales, and leadership.
• Skilled in preparing communication briefs and content for diverse audiences.

Life at IBM

At IBM, we foster a culture of growth, curiosity, and innovation. We support continuous learning and development, encourage feedback, and value diverse perspectives. Our IBMers are empowered to make impactful decisions and embrace challenges with resourcefulness and a results-oriented mindset. Join us to be part of a responsible technology innovator and a force for good.

About IBM

IBM's greatest invention is the IBMer. We believe in leveraging intelligence, reason, and science to improve business, society, and the human condition. As a pioneer in AI, quantum computing, and blockchain, we are committed to responsible innovation. Join us on our journey to make the world work better. IBM is an equal opportunity employer, welcoming applicants regardless of race, gender, age, disability, or background.