Head of Media Relations

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Cape Town office

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a seasoned Head of Media Relations to lead public affairs and media outreach. You will shape the organization’s narrative, manage sensitive issues, and foster media relationships across national and international landscapes.

The role requires exceptional leadership, strategic foresight, and a track record of driving impactful communication campaigns from a Cape Town base.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Communications, Journalism, PR or related field.
• 10+ years in media relations or PR management, including senior roles.
• Proven media strategy experience for large orgs, preferably tourism/hospitality.
• Strong understanding of SA media landscape, especially Cape Town.
• Crisis communications skills; leadership and stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

• Direct all media relations activities aligned with corporate strategy.
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists, editors, and producers.
• Lead proactive media outreach to secure coverage across channels.
• Manage crisis communications as spokesperson and provide strategic guidance.
• Craft press materials and speeches for executives.
• Monitor media coverage and advise on risks.
• Organize press conferences and media briefings.
• Collaborate with marketing, legal, and executives for consistent messaging.
• Lead and mentor the media relations team.
• Advise senior management on media risks.

Skills

Leadership

Crisis Communications

Media Relations

Stakeholder Management

Strategic Planning

Public Speaking

Media Training

English

Afrikaans

Education

Master's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related discipline

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Head of Media Relations to lead their public affairs and media outreach efforts in the vibrant city of Cape Town . This senior leadership position is responsible for developing and executing innovative communication strategies that enhance the company's public image and reputation. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of national and international media landscapes, with a particular focus on the Western Cape region. You will be at the forefront of shaping our client's narrative, managing sensitive issues, and fostering positive relationships with key media stakeholders. This role requires exceptional leadership skills, strategic foresight, and a passion for driving impactful communication campaigns. The opportunity is based in our state-of-the-art offices in Cape Town , offering a dynamic work environment within a leading industry player. We are looking for an influential voice to champion our client's message.

Key Responsibilities

• Orchestrate and direct all media relations activities, ensuring alignment with corporate communications strategy.
• Build and maintain robust relationships with a wide range of media contacts, including journalists, editors, and producers.
• Develop and oversee the execution of proactive media outreach plans to secure positive coverage across all relevant channels.
• Manage crisis communications, acting as a key spokesperson and providing strategic guidance during sensitive situations.
• Craft compelling press materials, statements, and speeches for executive leadership.
• Monitor media coverage and public sentiment, providing comprehensive analysis and recommendations.
• Organize press conferences, media briefings, and corporate events to engage with the press.
• Collaborate closely with marketing, legal, and executive teams to ensure consistent brand messaging.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing media relations team.
• Advise senior management on media-related issues and reputational risks.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related discipline.
• At least 10 years of experience in media relations or public relations management, with a significant portion in a senior role.
• Proven expertise in developing and implementing successful media strategies for large organizations, preferably within the tourism or hospitality sector.
• Exceptional understanding of the media landscape in South Africa and specifically Cape Town .
• Demonstrated crisis communication management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and presentation abilities.
• Experience in media training for senior executives.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret media data.
• Fluency in English and Afrikaans is a significant advantage.
• Proven leadership experience, with the ability to inspire and manage a team.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive base salary, annual bonus, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund contributions.
• We provide a stimulating work environment in a prime Cape Town location, with excellent transport links.
• Professional development opportunities, including access to industry conferences and training programs, are readily available.
• You will have the chance to work on impactful projects that shape public opinion and contribute to the company's success.
• Our client is committed to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, making this an ideal place for a dedicated communications professional to thrive.
• This role is office-based to ensure close collaboration and immediate response capabilities.