Head of PR & Communications

Hollywoodbets; Durban; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A sports and entertainment betting operator is seeking a Communications Leader in Durban, South Africa. In this role, you will develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy, manage media relations, and lead a high-performing PR team. The ideal candidate has 5-8 years of experience in Public Relations and a relevant degree. This position offers opportunities for growth and development within a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 5 -8 years in Public Relations/Advertising/Marketing.
• Experience writing for the media or in an agency/marketing department environment.
• 3+ years in a Senior/Leadership role.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive PR and communications strategy.
• Lead proactive media relations and brand storytelling initiatives.
• Manage crisis communication and reputation management plans.

Skills

Public Relations

Media Relations

Crisis Communication

Team Leadership

Strategic Thinking

Education

Degree in English Studies/Copywriting/Public Relations

Diploma/Degree (Preferred)

Tools

Excel

Job description

Job Description

• Strategic PR
• Media relations
• Crisis comms
• Thought leadership
• Team leadership

Responsibilities

Strategic Communications Leadership:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive PR and communications strategy that strengthens brand reputation, increases awareness, and supports business growth.
• Align communications objectives with overall business and marketing strategies.
• Lead proactive media relations, thought leadership, and brand storytelling initiatives across key markets.
• Ensure consistent brand messaging and tone across all platforms and regions.

Thought Leadership, Industry Influence & Education

• Position the company as a credible voice in the sports betting and gaming sectors.
• Build the company’s presence in industry conversations through opinion pieces, conferences, and media engagement.
• Develop educational and advocacy content that promotes responsible gaming and innovation.
• Forge partnerships with industry bodies, media, and educational institutions.
• Identify opportunities to influence policy, reputation, and public perception through strategic communication.

Stakeholder & Media Relations

• Build and maintain relationships with media, regulators, influencers, and key stakeholders.
• Serve as company spokesperson or prepare spokespeople for public engagements.
• Proactively manage media interactions, press requests, and editorial opportunities.
• Maintain a robust and diverse network of journalists, commentators, and industry thought leaders.
• Build and maintain relationships with media contacts, engaging via email, phone, and at events to generate coverage.

Crisis & Issues Management

• Develop, maintain, and execute crisis communication and reputation management plans.
• Lead communication responses in sensitive or high-pressure situations, ensuring clarity and alignment with company values.
• Collaborate closely with Legal, Compliance, and Executive teams to mitigate risks.
• Provide calm, credible leadership during reputational challenges.

Monitoring, Trends & Insights

• Monitor media coverage, public sentiment, and industry developments to anticipate risks and identify opportunities.
• Leverage data and analytics to refine communication strategy and messaging.
• Produce reports on communications effectiveness and reputation performance.

Internal & Corporate Communications

• Support internal communication efforts to drive employee engagement and alignment.
• Collaborate with HR and leadership to deliver executive communications and internal storytelling.
• Ensure internal and external messaging are cohesive and aligned with company culture.
• Attend and support company events, interviews, and promotional activities as needed.

Collaboration & Leadership

• Work cross-functionally with Marketing, Brand, CX, and Operations to align strategies.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a high-performing PR & Communications team.
• Manage external PR agencies, consultants, and partners to ensure innovation and consistency.
• Perform ad hoc communication and administrative tasks as required by the department.

Qualifications

• Studying towards or have completed a degree in English Studies/Copywriting/Public Relations
• Diploma/Degree (Preferred)
• Valid Driver’s License
• Excel – Intermediate
• 5 -8 Years Public Relations/Advertising/Marketing
• Experience writing for the media or within an agency/marketing department environment
• 3 + Years in a Senior/Leadership role

About Us

Hollywoodbets is a sports and entertainment betting operator that was born and bred in Durban, South Africa. Whether you’re in one of our upmarket retail branches or online, our customers can conveniently place bets in style anytime, anywhere.

We’re proud to partner with local and international legends, from the Hollywoodbets Sharks and Brentford FC to iconic events like the Hollywoodbets Durban July. Being part of our Purple Team means being part of something bigger.

At Hollywoodbets, every day is a chance to learn, grow, and make an impact. We move fast, think big, and work together to turn bold ideas into reality. With passion, creativity, and a shared purpose, we bring our Purple Spirit to everything we do.

The opportunities here are endless. If you’re driven, curious, agile and ready to level up, there’s no limit to how far you can go with the Purple Team!