Media Relations Manager - Media & PR

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 650,000 - 1,050,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Media Relations Manager to lead and execute comprehensive media relations strategies in Pretoria, Gauteng. This role focuses on shaping public perception, securing positive coverage, and serving as the primary media contact for inquiries.

The successful candidate will build strong relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers across national and regional outlets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in media relations or corporate communications.
• Proven track record of securing significant media placements.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and presentation skills.
• In-depth knowledge of the South African media landscape, especially Pretoria and surrounds.
• Strong media network with journalists and editors.
• Excellent judgment in high-pressure situations and crisis communications.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and analysis tools.
• Ability to work effectively in a team across departments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic media relations plans to achieve corporate communication goals.
• Serve as primary spokesperson and media liaison, respond to inquiries and facilitate interviews.
• Cultivate and maintain long-term relationships with key media contacts.
• Identify opportunities for positive media coverage and pitch compelling stories.
• Write and edit press releases, media kits, backgrounders, and other PR materials.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze sentiment, and report to senior management.
• Develop and manage crisis communication plans and advise during sensitive situations.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and integrated comms.
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitors, and media opportunities.
• Organize press conferences, media briefings, and media-related events.

Skills

Media relations

Strategic planning

Crisis comms

Press relations

Media monitoring

Stakeholder relations

Written communications

Spokesperson

News pitching

Education

Bachelor's in Communications/Public Relations/Journalism

Tools

Cision

Meltwater

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Media Relations Manager to join their vibrant team in Pretoria, Gauteng . This is a critical role responsible for developing and executing comprehensive media relations strategies that enhance our client's brand reputation and public profile. You will be the primary point of contact for media inquiries, building and nurturing strong relationships with journalists, editors, and key industry influencers across various media platforms. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the media landscape, exceptional communication skills, and a proven ability to secure positive media coverage. This position requires a proactive individual who can anticipate media trends, craft compelling narratives, and manage the company’s response to sensitive issues. You will play a pivotal role in shaping public perception and ensuring our client’s message is effectively communicated to target audiences. This role is based in our Pretoria office, fostering a collaborative and dynamic work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic media relations plans to achieve corporate communication goals.
• Serve as a primary spokesperson and media liaison, responding to inquiries and facilitating interviews.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key media contacts in national and regional outlets.
• Proactively identify opportunities for positive media coverage and pitch compelling stories.
• Write and edit press releases, media kits, backgrounders, and other PR materials.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze sentiment, and provide regular reports to senior management.
• Develop and manage crisis communication plans, acting as a key advisor during sensitive situations.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and integrated communication efforts.
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging media opportunities.
• Organize press conferences, media briefings, and other media-related events.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field. A Master's degree is an advantage.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in media relations, public relations, or corporate communications.
• Proven track record of successfully managing media relations and securing significant media placements.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and presentation skills.
• In-depth knowledge of the South African media landscape, particularly in Pretoria and surrounding regions.
• Strong media network and established relationships with journalists and editors.
• Excellent judgment and ability to handle high-pressure situations and crisis communications.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and analysis tools.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate across departments.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive benefits including medical aid, a provident fund, and performance-based bonuses.
• This role provides a unique opportunity to shape the public narrative of a prominent organization in Pretoria. You will benefit from a supportive and collaborative office culture, access to professional development resources, and the chance to work alongside a team of dedicated communication professionals.
• Join us and make a significant impact on our client's visibility and reputation within the media sphere.