Head of Communications (Remote)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive coaching

Remote work from anywhere in SA

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement planning

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Head of Communications to shape and drive the organisation's global communications strategy on a fully remote basis. You will lead a high‑performing remote team, steer PR, media relations, and internal communications, and advise the executive team on strategic messaging.

The role requires 12+ years in corporate communications with a proven track record in global, integrated strategies, crisis management, and executive presence.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Communications or related field.
• 12+ years in corporate communications with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record of developing and executing integrated communication strategies for global organizations.
• Exceptional leadership and remote team management capabilities.
• Crisis communications and reputation management expertise.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive global communications strategy aligned with the company's vision and objectives.
• Oversee all aspects of public relations, media relations, internal communications, and CSR communications.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing remote communications team.
• Serve as a key spokesperson and advisor to the executive leadership team on all communication matters.
• Manage the company's reputation and brand image, addressing issues and crises.
• Craft and approve major external communications, including press releases and investor relations materials.
• Establish and maintain relationships with key media outlets and stakeholders worldwide.
• Drive internal communications initiatives to foster employee engagement and understanding of company strategy.
• Measure and report on the effectiveness of communication strategies and initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Remote team management

Crisis communications

Media relations

Brand management

Education

Master's degree in Communications or related field

Tools

Media monitoring tools

Analytics tools

PR agencies management

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a visionary and seasoned leader to serve as the Head of Communications , operating on a fully remote basis. This executive position is responsible for shaping and driving the overall communication strategy for the organisation, ensuring consistent, compelling, and impactful messaging across all internal and external platforms. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in developing and executing comprehensive PR and corporate communication plans, managing stakeholder relations, and building a strong brand reputation. This is a unique opportunity to lead from a distance, influencing the company's public image and internal dialogue on a global scale. You must be a strategic thinker, an exceptional communicator, and a proven leader capable of inspiring teams and driving results in a virtual setting. If you are a passionate advocate for clear, strategic communication and seek a senior, remote leadership role, this position is tailor-made for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive global communications strategy aligned with the company's vision and objectives.


• Oversee all aspects of public relations, media relations, internal communications, and corporate social responsibility communications.


• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing remote communications team.


• Serve as a key spokesperson and advisor to the executive leadership team on all communication matters.


• Manage the company's reputation and brand image, proactively addressing potential issues and crises.


• Craft and approve major external communications, including press releases, annual reports, and investor relations materials.


• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key media outlets, industry influencers, and stakeholders worldwide.


• Drive internal communications initiatives to foster employee engagement, alignment, and understanding of company strategy.


• Measure and report on the effectiveness of communication strategies and initiatives, ensuring ROI.


• Stay at the forefront of communication trends, technologies, and best practices, adapting strategies accordingly for a remote context.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Business Administration, or a related field.


• 12+ years of progressive experience in corporate communications and public relations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.


• Proven track record of success in developing and executing complex, integrated communication strategies for global organizations.


• Exceptional strategic thinking, leadership, and team-building capabilities, especially in managing remote teams.


• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with a mastery of storytelling and executive presence.


• Extensive experience in crisis communications and reputation management.


• Proficiency in using advanced communication, media monitoring, and analytics tools.


• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and autonomously in a remote, global environment.


• Strong understanding of digital communication, social media strategy, and brand management.


• Experience in managing external PR agencies and consultants.

Benefits

This senior, fully remote position offers significant autonomy and the ability to work from anywhere in South Africa , with a focus on the Stellenbosch region as a point of reference for the role's origin. Our client offers an executive-level compensation package, including a highly competitive salary, substantial performance bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as top-tier medical aid, retirement planning, and generous paid time off. We are committed to fostering remote talent and provide extensive opportunities for professional development, including executive coaching and access to cutting-edge training. This is a rare opportunity to lead communications for a leading company on a global scale, with the flexibility and freedom of a remote work arrangement.