Head of Communications

Recruitpartners; KwaZulu-Natal; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Recruitpartners in Durban is seeking a Head of Communications to lead internal and external strategies that support the organisation's objectives, working closely with the CEO to ensure clear, consistent messaging across stakeholders.

The role focuses on developing comprehensive comms plans, managing media relations, crisis communications, executive messaging, and measurement of impact through analytics and feedback.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, PR, Journalism, or related field.
• Postgraduate qualification advantageous.
• At least 5 years’ experience in corporate communications or PR.
• Experience with senior leadership and investor communications beneficial.
• Strong media relations and external communications proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Lead internal communications strategy aligned to business priorities.
• Develop external comms strategy to strengthen brand and leadership authority.
• Prepare media content: press releases, articles, and social messaging.
• Build relationships with media stakeholders and manage media interactions.
• Provide crisis and reputation management guidance with leadership.
• Produce executive communications and high-quality content.

Skills

Strategic comms

Media relations

Digital tools

Analytics platforms

Project management

Emotional intelligence

Education

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

Postgraduate qualification advantageous

Tools

Media monitoring tools

Job description

Head of Communications - Durban

This role is responsible for leading and executing both internal and external communication strategies that support the organisation’s strategic objectives and reputation, working closely with executive leadership, including the CEO, to ensure clear, consistent, and impactful messaging across all stakeholder groups.

Key Responsibilities

• Internal Communications
• Design and implement a comprehensive internal communications strategy aligned to business priorities
• Develop engaging communication initiatives that keep employees informed, motivated, and connected to the company’s vision and strategy
• Create a variety of content including internal newsletters, leadership messages, presentations, and speeches
• Introduce and manage feedback channels (e.g. surveys, forums, Q&A sessions) to measure employee engagement and provide actionable insights
• Coordinate internal events such as town halls, leadership engagements, and change communication initiatives
• Oversee and maintain internal communication platforms, ensuring content remains relevant and up to date
• Ensure messaging consistency and alignment with organisational strategy across all internal channels
• External Communications & Public Relations
• Develop and drive an external communications strategy to strengthen brand reputation and position leadership as industry authorities
• Prepare and manage media content including press releases, articles, and social media messaging
• Build and maintain relationships with media stakeholders and manage all media interactions
• Monitor media coverage and public perception, providing regular insights and recommendations
• Support the planning and execution of corporate events and industry exhibitions
• Crisis & Reputation Management
• Develop communication plans to manage potential risks and reputational challenges
• Work closely with senior leadership to ensure clear, timely, and appropriate messaging during sensitive situations
• Evaluate the effectiveness of crisis responses and refine strategies accordingly
• Content & Executive Communications
• Produce high-quality communication materials such as speeches, reports, presentations, and digital content
• Ensure all communication reflects the company’s tone, values, and strategic direction
• Partner with Investor Relations on shareholder-facing communications where required
• Measurement & Reporting
• Track communication effectiveness using key metrics such as engagement levels, media reach, and sentiment
• Provide regular reports with insights and recommendations for continuous improvement
• Refine communication strategies based on performance data and stakeholder feedback

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

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

Postgraduate qualification advantageous

Experience

• At least 5 years’ experience in corporate communications, public relations, or executive communications
• Experience working with senior leadership and investor-related communication is beneficial

Skills & Competencies

• Strong ability to develop and deliver strategic communication initiatives
• Solid experience in media relations and external communications
• Proficiency in digital communication tools and analytics platforms
• Excellent organisational and project management skills
• High level of professionalism, confidentiality, and emotional intelligence