Lead Media Relations Specialist - Remote

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Health insurance

Professional development

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Lead Media Relations Specialist in a fully remote role. You will spearhead strategic media relations plans, manage inquiries, and pitch compelling stories to journalists worldwide.

Build strong media relationships, monitor coverage, and craft messaging for spokespersons. The role offers autonomy within a virtual team and opportunities to elevate the company’s public image across channels.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing or related field.
• 6+ years in media relations, PR or journalism with proven placements.
• Strong storytelling and written/verbal communication skills.
• Extensive media contacts and industry network.
• Knowledge of media trends, digital communications and social platforms.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive media relations strategies aligned with goals.
• Pitch newsworthy stories and secure high-profile coverage.
• Manage media inquiries with timely, accurate responses.
• Cultivate relationships with journalists locally and internationally.
• Monitor coverage, analyze trends, and report on campaign effectiveness.
• Refine messaging for spokespersons and company announcements.
• Prepare spokespeople for media interviews through coaching.
• Oversee press kits, advisories, and press materials.
• Collaborate with marketing to ensure integrated communications.

Skills

Media relations

Communications

Crisis communications

Storytelling

Social media

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications/Journalism/Public Relations/Marketing

Tools

Press materials tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a seasoned and influential Lead Media Relations Specialist to spearhead their communications efforts. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while making a significant impact on the company's public image. As the Lead Specialist, you will be responsible for developing and executing strategic media relations plans that enhance brand visibility and reputation. You will manage all incoming media inquiries, proactively pitch compelling stories, and cultivate strong relationships with journalists and industry influencers. This role requires a deep understanding of media dynamics, exceptional storytelling abilities, and a strategic mindset. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative surrounding our client's brand, ensuring consistent and impactful messaging across all media channels. The ideal candidate is a self-starter, adept at working independently, and skilled at fostering collaboration within a virtual team environment. This position is crucial for maintaining and elevating our client's profile in the competitive media landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive media relations strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Proactively identify and pitch newsworthy stories to relevant media outlets, securing positive coverage.
• Manage all media inquiries, providing timely and accurate responses to journalists.
• Build and nurture strong, lasting relationships with key media contacts, both locally and internationally.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze trends, and provide regular reports on campaign effectiveness.
• Develop and refine key messaging for spokespersons and company announcements.
• Prepare spokespersons for media interviews through rigorous coaching and preparation.
• Manage crisis communications, providing swift and strategic counsel during sensitive situations.
• Oversee the creation of press kits, media advisories, and other press materials.
• Collaborate with marketing and other departments to ensure integrated communication efforts.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of proven experience in media relations, public relations, or journalism.
• Demonstrated success in securing high-profile media placements and managing complex media campaigns.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for crafting persuasive narratives.
• Extensive network of established media contacts across various industries.
• Strong understanding of current media trends, digital communications, and social media platforms.
• Ability to think strategically and execute tactically in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven ability to manage crisis communications effectively and provide sound counsel.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Must be highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities autonomously.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided.
• As a remote position, employees enjoy significant flexibility and autonomy.
• We support professional growth through access to industry conferences, workshops, and continuing education opportunities.
• A retirement savings plan with company matching is available.
• Paid time off and holidays are generous, promoting work-life balance.

Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to excellence in communications. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the media presence of a growing organization from Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA.