About the Role
Our client is seeking a dedicated and strategic Media Relations Manager to join their team on a fully remote basis. This role is ideal for a seasoned PR professional who thrives in a remote-first environment and possesses a deep understanding of media outreach and relationship building. The Media Relations Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing effective strategies to secure positive media coverage and manage the company's public image. The position offers the flexibility to work from anywhere, making it an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking autonomy and a strong work-life balance. You will a key player in shaping public perception through proactive and reactive media engagement, ensuring our client's message is consistently and favorably communicated. The successful candidate must be adept at virtual collaboration and self-management.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute comprehensive media relations strategies to achieve business objectives.
- Cultivate and maintain strong, long-term relationships with journalists, editors, and media influencers.
- Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, and talking points.
- Proactively pitch stories and secure positive media placements across various platforms.
- Monitor media coverage, identify potential issues, and advise on response strategies.
- Manage media inquiries and serve as a point of contact for journalists.
- Organize virtual press briefings and interviews.
- Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and brand alignment.
- Track and report on media coverage and the effectiveness of PR initiatives.
- Provide media training and guidance to key spokespeople.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related discipline.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in media relations, preferably in a PR agency or corporate communications setting.
- Proven ability to secure media coverage in top-tier publications.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for crafting compelling narratives.
- Strong understanding of media cycles and journalistic requirements.
- Excellent interpersonal and networking skills, with the ability to build rapport remotely.
- Proficiency in media monitoring tools and PR databases.
- Experience in managing crisis communications is highly desirable.
- Self-motivated with strong organizational and time-management skills, essential for a remote role.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a distributed team.
Benefits
- Competitive annual salary of ZAR.
- Fully remote working arrangement, providing ultimate flexibility.
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
- Generous vacation and personal leave policies.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- Performance-based incentives and bonuses.
- Allowance for home office setup and expenses.
- Access to online training platforms and industry conferences.
- Supportive and collaborative remote team culture.
- Annual company retreats (virtual or in-person, depending on circumstances).