Media Relations Officer

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 320,000 - 450,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Healthcare coverage

Retirement benefits

Performance bonuses

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks a proactive Media Relations Officer to build relationships with local media, pitch stories, and craft compelling content that conveys our client’s narrative. The role covers responding to inquiries, drafting releases, and monitoring coverage.

The ideal candidate brings 3+ years in media relations, excellent writing and communication skills, and the ability to work under pressure. Hybrid work arrangements and opportunities for growth are offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, PR, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of media relations or PR experience.
• Proven track record of securing media coverage.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Familiarity with the Durban media landscape is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary contact for media inquiries and provide timely responses.
• Proactively pitch stories and build journalist relationships.
• Draft and distribute press releases and media advisories.
• Monitor media coverage and report on placements and sentiment.
• Assist in developing and executing communication strategies.
• Support event management and media coordination.

Skills

Media relations

Story pitching

Press release drafting

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a proactive and skilled Media Relations Officer to join their dynamic team in Durban . This role is crucial for building and maintaining positive relationships with the media, ensuring consistent and favorable coverage for the company. You will be responsible for identifying media opportunities, responding to media inquiries, and developing engaging content that tells our client's story effectively. The ideal candidate is adept at navigating the local media landscape, possesses excellent interpersonal skills, and is passionate about communicating impactful messages to a broad audience in the KwaZulu-Natal region, contributing to a strong brand narrative.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a primary point of contact for media inquiries, providing timely and accurate responses.
• Proactively pitch stories and build relationships with journalists and media outlets relevant to the company's sector.
• Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, and other communication materials.
• Monitor media coverage and report on key placements and sentiment.
• Assist in the development and execution of communication strategies and campaigns.
• Support event management and media coordination for company activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in media relations or a PR-focused role.
• Proven track record of securing media coverage and building strong media relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a knack for concise and engaging messaging.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage deadlines effectively.
• Familiarity with the media landscape in Durban and surrounding areas is a plus.

Benefits

• Attractive salary with potential performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage and retirement benefits.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering a balance of office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Professional development opportunities and training programs.
• A supportive and forward-thinking work environment.