Media Relations Specialist - Remote

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 134,000 - 268,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work flexibility

Competitive part-time salary

Professional development support

Collaborative virtual work environment

Work-life balance

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks a Media Relations Specialist to join its communications team. The role is 100% remote within SA, focusing on building journalist relationships, pitching stories, and securing coverage across platforms.

You will craft press releases, advisories, and talking points; manage media inquiries; monitor coverage; and support crisis communications. The ideal candidate has a relevant degree and 3–5 years in media relations or journalism, with strong writing and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations or a related discipline.
• 3–5 years of experience in media relations, PR, or journalism.
• Proven ability to secure media placements and build journalist relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with persuasive pitches.
• Strong understanding of the South African media landscape.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and research tools.
• Ability to work independently in a fully remote setting.
• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Identify and cultivate relationships with key media contacts, journalists, and influencers.
• Develop and execute targeted media outreach strategies to secure positive press coverage.
• Write and edit press releases, media advisories, and talking points.
• Pitch story ideas and respond to media inquiries promptly.
• Monitor media coverage and analyze trends relevant to the industry.
• Support the development of communication plans and strategies.
• Assist in managing media relations during events or crisis situations.
• Maintain an updated database of media contacts.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging.
• Prepare media kits and background materials for spokespersons.

Skills

Media relations

Verbal communication

Written communication

Pitching stories

Time management

Remote work

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a dedicated Media Relations Specialist to join their growing communications team. This position is 100% remote, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa while contributing significantly to our client's media outreach efforts. You will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with journalists, pitching compelling stories, and securing positive media coverage across various platforms. This role is crucial for enhancing our client's brand visibility and reputation. If you are a proactive communicator with a passion for media and a proven ability to connect with stakeholders, this remote opportunity in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape is an ideal fit for your career aspirations.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and cultivate relationships with key media contacts, journalists, and influencers.
• Develop and execute targeted media outreach strategies to secure positive press coverage.
• Write and edit compelling press releases, media advisories, and talking points.
• Proactively pitch story ideas and respond to media inquiries in a timely manner.
• Monitor media coverage and analyze trends relevant to the client's industry.
• Support the development of communication plans and strategies.
• Assist in managing media relations during events or crisis situations.
• Maintain an updated database of media contacts.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and communication.
• Prepare media kits and background materials for spokespersons.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in media relations, PR, or journalism.
• Demonstrated ability to secure media placements and build strong journalist relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for crafting persuasive pitches.
• Strong understanding of the South African media landscape.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and research tools.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a fully remote setting.
• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.
• Proactive and results-driven attitude.
• Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Competitive part-time salary commensurate with experience.
• Fully remote work flexibility.
• Opportunity to work with a reputable client and gain diverse media experience.
• Professional development support.
• A collaborative and supportive virtual work environment.
• Work-life balance and the ability to manage your schedule effectively.