Media Relations Specialist

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical and dental coverage

Pension fund contribution

Opportunities for professional growth

Collaborative work environment

Job summary

Placements24, a prominent national enterprise, seeks a proactive Media Relations Specialist to join its corporate communications team in Rustenburg, North West. You will build and maintain a positive public image by managing media relationships, crafting narratives, and guiding external messaging.

This role requires 5+ years in media relations or journalism, strong writing abilities, crisis communication skills, and deep knowledge of the local media landscape.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in media relations, public relations, or journalism.
• Proven success in securing positive media coverage and managing media relationships.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and communication skills.
• Strong understanding of media outreach, pitching, and relationship building.
• Experience in developing and implementing PR strategies.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and reporting tools.
• Ability to think critically and respond effectively in high-pressure situations.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with the Rustenburg and broader North West media ecosystem is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute media relations strategies to enhance brand visibility and reputation.
• Build and nurture strong relationships with journalists, editors, and media influencers across various sectors.
• Draft and distribute press releases, media kits, and other essential PR materials.
• Proactively pitch story ideas and secure positive media coverage for the company.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze sentiment, and report on PR campaign effectiveness.
• Act as a key point of contact for media inquiries and manage interview requests.
• Develop crisis communication plans and provide support during sensitive situations.
• Organize press conferences, media briefings, and related events.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and brand alignment.
• Stay updated on industry news and best practices in media relations.

Skills

Media relations

Storytelling

Crisis communications

Writing & editing

Relationship building

PR strategy development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent national enterprise, is seeking a proactive and seasoned Media Relations Specialist to join their vibrant corporate communications team in Rustenburg, North West. This role is essential for building and maintaining a positive public image by managing relationships with the media, crafting compelling narratives, and ensuring effective communication of the company's message. The ideal candidate will have a keen understanding of the media landscape, strong storytelling abilities, and a knack for crisis communication. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a well-respected organization and shape its public presence in the North West province and beyond. You will be instrumental in shaping external communications and ensuring brand integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute media relations strategies to enhance brand visibility and reputation.
• Build and nurture strong relationships with journalists, editors, and media influencers across various sectors.
• Draft and distribute press releases, media kits, and other essential PR materials.
• Proactively pitch story ideas and secure positive media coverage for the company.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze sentiment, and report on PR campaign effectiveness.
• Act as a key point of contact for media inquiries and manage interview requests.
• Develop crisis communication plans and provide support during sensitive situations.
• Organize press conferences, media briefings, and related events.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and brand alignment.
• Stay updated on industry news and best practices in media relations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in media relations, public relations, or journalism.
• Demonstrated success in securing positive media coverage and managing media relationships.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and communication skills.
• Strong understanding of media outreach, pitching, and relationship building.
• Experience in developing and implementing PR strategies.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and reporting tools.
• Ability to think critically and respond effectively in high-pressure situations.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with the Rustenburg and broader North West media ecosystem is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including an attractive annual salary and potential performance-based bonuses.
• Employees receive comprehensive medical and dental coverage, a generous pension fund contribution, and ample opportunities for professional growth and development.
• We are committed to fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment that encourages innovation and collaboration.
• This role is based in Rustenburg, offering a unique blend of career advancement and regional living.