Media Relations Director

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Health benefits

Retirement contributions

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a seasoned Media Relations Director to lead its communications strategy. You will shape media programs, build strong relationships with journalists, and act as the primary spokesperson.

A Master’s in Communications or PR and 10+ years in media relations are required, with crisis management experience. The role offers hybrid work, health benefits, retirement contributions, and opportunities for strategic impact.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years in media relations, preferably corporate or agency.
• Proven ability to secure high-impact coverage and manage media relationships.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Proven ability to act as a company spokesperson and handle media interactions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative media relations strategies.
• Cultivate relationships with local, national, and international media outlets and journalists.
• Craft press releases, media advisories, statements, and other communication materials.
• Proactively pitch stories and secure positive media coverage across platforms.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze trends, and provide strategic recommendations to senior management.
• Serve as a key spokesperson for the company when required.
• Manage media inquiries and respond to requests professionally.
• Develop and implement crisis communication plans related to media engagement.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure alignment of messaging and communication efforts.
• Organize press conferences, media briefings, and other media-related events.

Skills

Media relations

Crisis communication

Spokesperson

Strategic thinking

Education

Master's degree in Communications/PR/Journalism

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding industrial conglomerate, is looking for an experienced and strategic Media Relations Director to lead their communications strategy in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This pivotal role demands a seasoned professional with a profound understanding of the media landscape and a proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with journalists and key influencers. The Media Relations Director will be responsible for developing and executing comprehensive media strategies to enhance the company's public profile, manage its reputation, and support its business objectives. This is a leadership position that requires exceptional communication skills, strategic thinking, and a proactive approach to stakeholder engagement. You will be the primary liaison between our client and the media.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative media relations strategies to achieve corporate communication goals.
• Cultivate and nurture strong, positive relationships with local, national, and international media outlets and journalists.
• Craft compelling press releases, media advisories, statements, and other communication materials.
• Proactively pitch stories and secure positive media coverage across diverse platforms.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze trends, and provide strategic recommendations to senior management.
• Serve as a key spokesperson for the company when required.
• Manage media inquiries and respond to requests in a timely and professional manner.
• Develop and implement crisis communication plans related to media engagement.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure alignment of messaging and communication efforts.
• Organize press conferences, media briefings, and other media-related events.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in media relations, preferably within a corporate or agency environment.
• Demonstrated success in building and managing media relationships and securing high-impact coverage.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Proven ability to act as a company spokesperson and handle media interactions effectively.
• Strong understanding of media ethics and best practices.
• Experience in crisis communication and reputation management is essential.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and analysis tools.
• Excellent strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly attractive annual salary of ZAR, commensurate with extensive experience and proven expertise. This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, balancing office-based collaboration with remote flexibility. Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical and dental coverage, are provided. Opportunities for professional development and continuing education are encouraged. A generous retirement fund contribution scheme is available. Paid time off, including annual leave and sick days, is offered. Our client promotes a culture of innovation and collaboration.