Media Relations Specialist

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 360,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Travel allowance

Laptop + mobile phone

Hybrid work arrangement

Modern office facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Media Relations Specialist to join our team in Mahikeng. The role focuses on developing and executing media relations strategies to enhance public image and brand awareness.

You will build relationships with media professionals, craft compelling press materials, and secure positive coverage across platforms. The ideal candidate has 3–5 years of media relations experience, excellent communication skills, and a proactive approach to identifying publicity

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field (required).
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in media relations or public relations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with storytelling/editing abilities.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of media landscape across digital, print, broadcast, and social media.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment and manage priorities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement targeted media relations strategies to achieve communication objectives.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media contacts.
• Write and edit press releases, media advisories, and pitch letters.
• Proactively pitch stories to journalists and media outlets.
• Manage media inquiries, facilitate interviews, and act as press contact.
• Monitor media coverage and provide regular reports on PR activities.
• Assist in planning media events, press conferences, and media tours.
• Stay updated on industry trends and news cycles.
• Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to ensure message alignment.
• Support crisis communications with timely, accurate information.

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Media Relations Specialist to join their team in Mahikeng. This role involves developing and executing effective media relations strategies to enhance our client's public image and brand awareness. You will be responsible for building and maintaining strong relationships with media professionals, crafting compelling press materials, and securing positive media coverage across various platforms. The ideal candidate possesses excellent communication skills, a keen understanding of the media landscape, and a proactive approach to identifying and leveraging publicity opportunities. This position offers a hybrid work model, allowing for a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, supporting work-life balance. You will play a key role in shaping public perception and communicating our client's key messages effectively to target audiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement targeted media relations strategies to achieve communication objectives.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, positive relationships with local, regional, and national media contacts.
• Write and edit clear, concise, and compelling press releases, media advisories, and pitch letters.
• Proactively pitch stories and news angles to relevant journalists and media outlets.
• Manage media inquiries, facilitate interviews, and serve as a point of contact for press.
• Monitor media coverage and analyze results, providing regular reports on PR activities.
• Assist in the planning and execution of media events, press conferences, and media tours.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, competitor activities, and relevant news cycles.
• Collaborate with the broader marketing and communications team to ensure message alignment.
• Support crisis communications efforts as needed, providing timely and accurate information.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in media relations or public relations.
• Proven track record of successfully pitching stories and securing media placements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong storytelling and editing abilities.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of the media landscape, including digital, print, broadcast, and social media.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, managing time and priorities efficiently.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and project management skills.
• Knowledge of the Mahikeng region's media landscape is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Health insurance benefits.
• Paid time off and public holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Exposure to diverse media campaigns and projects.
• Hybrid work arrangement for improved flexibility.
• Access to modern office facilities when working on-site.
• Company-provided laptop and mobile phone.
• Travel allowance for work-related activities.
• Positive and collaborative work environment.