Media Relations Officer

Placements24; East London; Sur place; ZAR 350 000 - 550 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a proactive Media Relations Officer for a public sector entity in East London. You will manage media relations, draft press materials, respond to inquiries, and coordinate press conferences to enhance visibility of development initiatives.

You will build relationships with journalists regionally and nationally, monitor coverage, and support crisis communication with the Head of Communications.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in media relations, journalism, or public relations.
• Proven ability to write effectively for media and public audiences.
• Good understanding of the South African media landscape.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Experience in event coordination is a plus.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proactive approach to identifying media opportunities.

Responsabilités

• Develop and implement media relations strategies to promote the organization's activities and impact.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with journalists and media outlets regionally and nationally.
• Draft press releases, media advisories, and statements.
• Serve as primary contact for media inquiries, providing timely information.
• Organize and coordinate press conferences, media briefings, and interviews.
• Monitor media coverage and provide regular reports.
• Assist in developing communication materials and messaging for public campaigns.
• Support crisis media management with the Head of Communications.
• Ensure consistency in brand messaging and public representation.
• Stay informed about current events and relevant industry news.

Connaissances

Strong writing

Interpersonal skills

Deadline driven

Proactive media opportunities

Formation

Bachelor's degree in Journalism/Communications/PR

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic public sector entity focused on economic development, is seeking a proactive Media Relations Officer to join their communications department in East London . This role is essential for managing the organization's public image, fostering positive relationships with the media, and ensuring effective communication of its initiatives and achievements. You will be responsible for drafting press releases, responding to media inquiries, organizing press events, and monitoring media coverage. The ideal candidate possesses strong writing skills, a good understanding of media operations, and a keen interest in public service and the Eastern Cape's development agenda. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to public discourse and enhance visibility for a key organization in East London .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement media relations strategies to promote the organization's activities and impact.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with journalists and media outlets in the region and nationally.
• Draft clear, concise, and compelling press releases, media advisories, and statements.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for media inquiries, providing timely and accurate information.
• Organize and coordinate press conferences, media briefings, and interviews.
• Monitor media coverage of the organization and its areas of focus, providing regular reports.
• Assist in the development of communication materials and key messaging for public campaigns.
• Support the Head of Communications in managing media aspects of crisis situations.
• Ensure consistency in brand messaging and public representation.
• Stay informed about current events and relevant industry news affecting the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in media relations, journalism, or public relations.
• Proven ability to write effectively for media and public audiences.
• Good understanding of media operations and the South African media landscape.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Experience in event coordination is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• A proactive approach to identifying media opportunities.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to East London .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary within the public sector framework, along with standard government benefits, including medical aid and a pension fund.
• This position is office-based in East London , offering a stable and professional work environment.
• Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and workshops, are available.
• Employees benefit from generous annual leave and other employment benefits as per public service regulations.
• This role provides a platform to engage meaningfully with the public and contribute to the economic development of the Eastern Cape.
• The organization values collaboration and professional growth within its communications team.