Media and Public Affairs Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Life insurance

Performance bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Media and Public Affairs Manager in Polokwane, Limpopo. The role shapes the company’s communications, manages media relations, and engages with government bodies and local communities.

You will advocate for company interests, craft strategic messaging, and oversee crisis communication for a renewable energy leader. The ideal candidate has 5–7 years in media/public affairs, excellent writing and presentation skills, and a deep knowledge of the Limpopo/South African media

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Communications, PR, or related field.
• 5–7 years of experience in media relations, public affairs, or corporate communications.
• Proven relationships with media and government stakeholders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; strong presentations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement media relations and public affairs strategies.
• Build relationships with media, government officials, and community leaders in Limpopo.
• Manage media inquiries, press conferences, and public events.
• Draft press releases, speeches, and policy briefs.
• Monitor media coverage and public sentiment in the region.
• Advise senior management on media and public affairs risks.
• Coordinate communication plans for major projects and initiatives.
• Ensure consistent brand messaging across communications.
• Support government relations and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Manage crisis communications as needed.

Skills

Media relations

Public affairs

Government relations

Strategic communications

Crisis communications

Stakeholder engagement

Strong written/verbal skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Communications/PR

Tools

Cision

Meltwater

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the renewable energy sector, is seeking an experienced Media and Public Affairs Manager to join their dynamic team in Polokwane, Limpopo. This crucial role will shape and execute the company's communication strategies, manage media relations, and foster positive engagement with government bodies and community stakeholders. You will be responsible for enhancing the company's public profile, advocating for its interests, and ensuring transparent communication about its projects and contributions to the Limpopo region. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of public affairs, excellent media relations skills, and a strategic approach to communication. This is a significant opportunity to influence public perception and policy within a rapidly evolving industry in Polokwane.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive media relations and public affairs strategies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts, government officials, and community leaders in Limpopo.
• Manage media inquiries, press conferences, and public events.
• Craft compelling press releases, speeches, and policy briefs.
• Monitor media coverage and public sentiment related to the company and the renewable energy sector.
• Advise senior management on media and public affairs issues and potential risks.
• Develop and manage communication plans for major projects and initiatives.
• Ensure consistent brand messaging and corporate identity across all communications.
• Support government relations efforts and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Manage crisis communications as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Communications, Political Science, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in media relations, public affairs, government relations, or corporate communications, preferably within the energy or infrastructure sectors.
• Demonstrated success in building and managing relationships with media and government stakeholders.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with strong presentation abilities.
• Proven ability to develop and execute strategic communication plans.
• Strong understanding of the political and media landscape in Limpopo and South Africa.
• Experience in issues management and crisis communications.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and analysis tools.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package
• medical aid
• life insurance
• performance bonuses
• Professional development is highly encouraged, with opportunities for further training and attending industry forums.
• Hybrid work model, allowing for flexibility and a balance between remote work and in-office collaboration at our Polokwane location.
• Enjoy working within a progressive industry and contributing to sustainable development in the Limpopo province.