External Communications Lead

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Medical, dental and retirementBenefits

Leadership development opportunities

Prestigious Randburg office

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced External Communications Lead in Randburg, Gauteng to shape the organization’s public voice. You will design and drive strategic communications, oversee media relations, and guide senior leadership on messaging across channels.

You will manage crisis communications, build relationships with key outlets and stakeholders, and ensure consistent brand storytelling. The role demands leadership, analytical thinking, and deep knowledge of South Africa’s media landscape.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive external communications, public relations, or media management experience.
• Proven success in developing and executing strategic communication plans.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills with storytelling talent.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with media and stakeholders.
• Extensive experience in crisis communications and reputation management.
• Strong leadership and cross-functional team management abilities.
• Knowledge of Randburg and Gauteng business and media environment is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement an external communications strategy aligned with organizational goals.
• Manage all media relations, including proactive pitching, reactive responses, and spokesperson training.
• Craft and disseminate press releases, statements, and other official communications.
• Oversee the company's online presence, including website content and social media engagement.
• Develop and manage crisis communication plans and provide leadership during sensitive situations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts, influencers, and stakeholders.
• Monitor media coverage and public sentiment, providing regular reports and strategic recommendations.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent brand messaging across all external platforms.
• Represent the organization in public forums and industry events as required.

Skills

Media relations

Stakeholder engagement

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Public speaking

Storytelling

Analytical skills

Education

Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and strategic External Communications Lead to manage their public image and stakeholder engagement. This crucial role is based in Randburg, Gauteng, and involves developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies to enhance our client's reputation and visibility. You will be responsible for managing media relations, crafting compelling narratives, and overseeing all external communication channels. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the media landscape, strong leadership skills, and a proven ability to navigate complex communication challenges. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the external voice of a leading organization within the Gauteng region. You will work closely with senior leadership to ensure alignment and impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a robust external communications strategy aligned with organizational goals.
• Manage all media relations, including proactive pitching, reactive responses, and spokesperson training.
• Craft and disseminate press releases, statements, and other official communications.
• Oversee the company's online presence, including website content and social media engagement from a corporate perspective.
• Develop and manage crisis communication plans and provide leadership during sensitive situations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts, industry influencers, and stakeholders.
• Monitor media coverage and public sentiment, providing regular reports and strategic recommendations.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent brand messaging across all external platforms.
• Represent the organization in public forums and industry events as required.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in external communications, public relations, or media management.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing strategic communication plans.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills, with a talent for storytelling.
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with media and key stakeholders.
• Extensive experience in crisis communications and reputation management.
• Strong leadership qualities and the ability to manage cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency with media monitoring and communication management tools.
• Excellent strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of the Randburg and Gauteng business and media environment is essential.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary package.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and retirement benefits.
• Significant opportunities for professional development and leadership growth.
• Be instrumental in shaping the public perception of a major organization.
• Work in a dynamic and prestigious office environment in Randburg.