Media Relations Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Health & wellness benefits

Generous PTO

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a strategic Media Relations Manager to lead public relations activities in Polokwane and the Limpopo region. You will develop proactive media strategies to raise brand visibility and manage reputation by building strong relationships with journalists and media outlets.

You will coordinate interviews, brief spokespeople, monitor media coverage, and report on impact while guiding crisis communications with senior leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in PR, Communications, Journalism, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in media relations with a proven track record.
• Strong understanding of the South African media landscape and excellent communication skills.
• Ability to handle crisis communications and media inquiries effectively.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement media relations strategies for Polokwane and nearby regions.
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists, editors, and media influencers.
• Pitch stories and company news to relevant outlets.
• Coordinate interviews and provide briefing materials for spokespeople.
• Monitor coverage, analyze results, and report on media impact.
• Develop crisis communication plans with senior leadership.

Skills

Media relations

Crisis communications

Stakeholder relationships

Public speaking

Communications strategy

Education

Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a strategic and experienced Media Relations Manager to lead their public relations efforts in Polokwane . This role involves developing and executing proactive media strategies to enhance brand visibility and manage reputation. You will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with key media contacts, securing positive press coverage, and serving as a primary point of contact for media inquiries. This is a crucial role for a seasoned PR professional eager to make a significant impact in the Limpopo province.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive media relations strategies for Polokwane and surrounding regions.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, positive relationships with journalists, editors, and media influencers.
• Proactively pitch story ideas and company news to relevant media outlets.
• Manage media inquiries, coordinate interviews, and provide spokespersons with appropriate briefing materials.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze results, and provide regular reports on media impact.
• Develop and execute crisis communication plans in collaboration with senior leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in media relations, with a proven track record of success.
• Strong understanding of the South African media landscape.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain media relationships.
• Experience managing sensitive issues and crisis communications.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility and a positive work-life balance.
• Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth.