Lead Public Relations Strategist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,969,000 - 2,953,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity options

Advanced health coverage

Remote work stipend

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24's client is seeking a Lead Public Relations Strategist to spearhead global communications from a remote workspace, with operations based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will design and execute a forward-looking PR strategy that elevates brand visibility, secures major media placements, and positions the company as a sustainability tech thought leader.

You will guide media relations, crisis communications, budgeting, and agency partnerships, partnering with marketing, product, and

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive experience in public relations.
• 5+ years in a strategic leadership role, preferably in tech or sustainability.
• Proven track record of global PR execution and media placements.
• Strong crisis management and reputation stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a cutting-edge global PR strategy to drive brand awareness.
• Cultivate relationships with top-tier international media and industry analysts.
• Oversee creation and distribution of press materials and executive talking points.
• Secure speaking engagements, interviews, and strategic partnerships.
• Manage crisis communications and develop robust response plans.
• Guide internal teams and external agencies in communications initiatives.
• Monitor media landscapes and trends to identify opportunities and risks.
• Develop and manage the global PR budget and measure ROI.
• Collaborate with marketing, product, and leadership to align messaging.
• Champion the company’s mission and values externally.

Skills

Public relations leadership

Media relations

Crisis communications

Strategic planning

Team leadership

Budget management

Agency/vendor management

PR software

Education

Master's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Business, or related field

Tools

PR software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering technology startup focused on sustainable solutions, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Public Relations Strategist to spearhead their communications efforts. This is a pivotal, fully remote role, driving the narrative and amplifying the brand's impact globally from the convenience of your own workspace, while supporting our operations based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . You will be responsible for crafting and executing a comprehensive, forward-thinking PR strategy that enhances brand visibility, secures high-profile media placements, and positions our client as a thought leader in the sustainable tech industry. The ideal candidate is a strategic mastermind with exceptional media relations acumen, a proven ability to manage complex communication challenges, and a deep understanding of emerging technologies and their societal impact. This leadership position requires a proactive, innovative thinker who can inspire and guide communication initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead the execution of a cutting-edge global PR strategy to drive brand awareness and thought leadership.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with top-tier international media, tech journalists, and influential industry analysts.
• Oversee the creation and distribution of high-impact press releases, media kits, and executive talking points.
• Proactively identify and secure speaking engagements, media interviews, and strategic partnership opportunities.
• Manage all aspects of crisis communications, developing robust response plans and acting as a key spokesperson when needed.
• Provide strategic guidance and mentorship to internal communications teams and external PR agencies.
• Monitor media landscapes and industry trends, identifying opportunities and potential risks.
• Develop and manage the global PR budget and measure the ROI of PR initiatives.
• Collaborate closely with marketing, product, and executive leadership to ensure aligned messaging.
• Champion the company's mission and values through all external communications.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Business, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in public relations, with at least 5 years in a strategic leadership role, preferably within the tech or sustainability sector.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing impactful global PR strategies that have yielded significant media coverage and brand recognition.
• Exceptional media relations skills with a strong network of contacts in major global media outlets.
• Proven experience in managing high-stakes crisis communications and reputation management.
• Outstanding written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly and compellingly.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Experience managing budgets and leading teams or agencies.
• Proficiency in PR software, media monitoring tools, and collaboration platforms.
• This is a fully remote role, requiring excellent self-discipline, communication, and collaboration skills from any location.

Benefits

Our client offers an exceptionally competitive salary, equity options, and a comprehensive benefits package including advanced health coverage, generous paid time off, and a remote work stipend. You will have the autonomy to shape the company's public narrative and work with a passionate, mission-driven team. Opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth are abundant. This is a remote-first position, offering unparalleled flexibility, with a team that values innovation and impact. Join a company at the forefront of sustainable technology and make a global difference from your home office, while supporting our strategic base in Stellenbosch, Western Cape .