External Communications Specialist

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 780,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical and dental insurance

Retirement contributions

Professional development opportunities

Sustainability and innovation focus

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an External Communications Specialist to join our client in Upington, Northern Cape. The role focuses on developing and implementing communication strategies that enhance public image, manage media relations, and support branding.

Responsibilities include crafting press materials, maintaining online content, and coordinating external events. A strong writing background and renewables sector familiarity are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing or related field.
• 4+ years of experience in external communications or PR.
• Proven success in media relations and securing press coverage.
• Excellent writing and editing skills.
• Familiarity with energy sector, especially renewables is a plus.
• Proficiency in social media management and content creation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute external communication plans including media relations and CSR initiatives.
• Craft and distribute press releases, advisories, and corporate announcements.
• Build relationships with media, analysts and community stakeholders.
• Manage external website content and social media presence.
• Monitor media coverage and industry trends; report developments.
• Support development of marketing collateral and branding materials.
• Organize external events such as press conferences and community sessions.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing

Tools

Media monitoring tools

Content creation

Social media management tools

Editing/proofreading

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing renewable energy company, is seeking an experienced External Communications Specialist to join their team in **Upington, Northern Cape**. This role is essential for developing and implementing effective communication strategies that enhance the company's public image, build strong relationships with stakeholders, and ensure clear messaging to the external audience. You will be responsible for managing media relations, crafting compelling content for external platforms, and supporting corporate branding initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in external communications, excellent writing skills, and a deep understanding of the energy sector. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a company driving sustainable solutions and to play a key role in shaping its external narrative within the **Northern Cape** region and beyond. Join a team dedicated to innovation and positive environmental impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute external communication plans, including media relations, public affairs, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
• Craft and distribute press releases, media advisories, corporate announcements, and other external communications.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with media representatives, industry analysts, and community stakeholders.
• Manage the company's external website content and social media presence.
• Monitor media coverage and industry trends, reporting on relevant developments.
• Support the development of marketing collateral and corporate branding materials.
• Assist in organizing and managing external events, such as press conferences and community engagement sessions.
• Respond to external inquiries and provide accurate information about the company.
• Ensure consistency and clarity in all external communications to reflect company values and brand.
• Collaborate with internal departments, including marketing, legal, and operations, on communication matters.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in external communications, corporate communications, or public relations.
• Demonstrated success in managing media relations and securing positive press coverage.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with superior writing and editing abilities.
• Familiarity with the energy sector, particularly renewable energy, is a strong advantage.
• Proficiency in social media management and content creation.
• Strong understanding of corporate branding principles.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in relevant communication and project management software.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary.
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance.
• Retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• A role within a company committed to sustainability and innovation.
• Paid time off and public holidays.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.