Head Of Communications

Stellantis; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive company in South Africa seeks a Head of Communications & CSR to lead the development and execution of communication strategies, manage media relations, and oversee corporate social responsibility initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a degree in communications and at least 5 years' experience in a senior leadership role, demonstrating excellent communication skills and stakeholder engagement expertise. This role offers an opportunity to shape the brand's reputation and impact the community positively.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership role in corporate communications.
• Proven experience in managing media relations and brand reputation.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders.
• Serve as the primary media spokesperson for the organization.

Skills

Media relations

Crisis communications

Stakeholder engagement

Government relations

Strategic thinking

Excellent communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications

Master's degree preferred

Job description

JOB TITLE :

Head of Communications & CSR

DEPARTMENT :

Communications / Executive Office

BRANCH :

Stellantis South Africa

REPORTS TO :

Managing Director and Regional Communication Head

PURPOSE OF POSITION :

The Head Communications & CSR is a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for developing and executing the organization's communication, reputation management, stakeholder engagement, and corporate social responsibility strategies. This role ensures that all internal and external communications align with the organization's mission, values, and strategic objectives.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS :

Bachelor's degree in communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Political Science, or related field (master's degree preferred).

Minimum of

• years of progressive experience in corporate communications, public affairs, or stakeholder management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE :

Proven experience in managing media relations, brand reputation, and crisis communications. Track record of establishing and developing strong networks of media and other stakeholder contacts.

Strong understanding of government relations, regulatory affairs, and public policy processes. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Strategic thinker with the ability to translate complex ideas into clear and compelling messages.

KEY COMPETENCIES :

Strategic and analytical thinking, Executive presence and credibility, Exceptional communication and presentation skills, Relationship-building and influencing ability, Leadership and team management, Integrity and sound judgment under pressure, Adaptability and political acumen.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE & KEY RESPONSIBILITIES :

Performance Indicators: Brand reputation and media sentiment metrics, Stakeholder engagement outcomes, Employee communication effectiveness.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

Strategic Communications: Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy that promotes the Stellantis' vision, goals, and brand identity. Oversee all corporate communications, including media relations, public relations, digital presence, and crisis communications. Ensure consistent messaging across all communication channels. As a member of the leadership team, contribute to and influence the deployment of optimal business strategies. Facilitate and lead a culture of cross‑functional and cross‑company cooperation.

Corporate Affairs & Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government bodies, regulators, industry associations, partners, and the community. Monitor political, regulatory, and social developments that could impact the organization and advise leadership accordingly. Represent the organization in high‑level meetings and public forums.

Media and Public Relations: Serve as the primary media spokesperson for the organization. Manage press releases, media briefings, interviews, and public announcements. Cultivate and maintain positive relationships with journalists and media outlets. Aggressively and personally pursue the generation of positive media coverage.

Internal Communications: Lead internal communications initiatives to enhance employee engagement and alignment with Stellantis values. Develop effective communication channels to ensure timely and transparent information flow across the organization. Ensure that company business strategies are effectively cascaded into the business.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Design and oversee CSR programs that reflect the organization's commitment to sustainability and community development. Measure and report on the impact of CSR initiatives.

Reputation and Crisis Management: Develop and maintain a reputation management strategy, including risk mitigation and crisis communication protocols. Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO and executive team on reputation issues. Conduct regular risk assessments to anticipate potential issues or crises and propose / develop countermeasures. Lead and mentor the Communications and Corporate Affairs team. Set performance goals, manage budgets, and ensure operational efficiency within the department.

"At Stellantis, we assess candidates based on qualifications, merit and business needs. We welcome applications from people of all gender identities, age, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation and disability. Diverse teams, will allow us to better meet the evolving needs of our customers and care for our future."