Press Secretary

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a senior Press Secretary based in East London, Eastern Cape. The role requires deep media relations experience, strategic communications, and crisis management to represent company leadership to the public and media.

You will serve as the primary spokesperson, craft statements, manage media inquiries, and train executives for interviews. The position offers a competitive package, medical aid, retirement benefits, and strong opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate degree in Public Relations, Journalism, Communications, or related field.
• 8+ years in media relations, PR, journalism, or similar role.
• Experience as a spokesperson for a senior executive or organization.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong crisis communications and Eastern Cape media landscape knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary spokesperson and media contact in East London.
• Develop and implement comprehensive media relations strategies.
• Craft and disseminate press releases, statements, and media materials.
• Respond promptly to media inquiries and requests.
• Prepare executives for media interviews and appearances.
• Monitor media coverage and provide analysis and recommendations.
• Manage crisis communications and rapid response protocols.
• Build relationships with key media contacts and influencers.
• Organize press conferences and media briefings.
• Ensure consistent messaging and brand representation across media.

Skills

Media relations

Crisis communications

Spokesperson

Strategic communications

Public relations

Education

Postgraduate degree in PR/Journ/Journ/Communications

Tools

Media monitoring tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent organization within the **Media & PR** sector, is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Press Secretary to be based in **East London, Eastern Cape**. This senior role is responsible for managing all media relations and communications on behalf of the company's leadership. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in media liaison, strategic communications, and crisis management. You will act as the primary point of contact for journalists, craft official statements, and ensure the company's message is communicated clearly and effectively to the public and media in **East London** and beyond. This is a critical position requiring a deep understanding of the media landscape and exceptional communication skills within the **Eastern Cape**.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary spokesperson and media contact for the organization in **East London**.
• Develop and implement comprehensive media relations strategies.
• Craft and disseminate press releases, statements, and other media materials.
• Respond promptly and effectively to media inquiries and requests.
• Prepare company executives for media interviews and public appearances.
• Monitor media coverage and industry news, providing analysis and recommendations.
• Manage crisis communications and develop rapid response protocols.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts and influencers.
• Organize press conferences, media briefings, and other communication events.
• Ensure consistent messaging and brand representation across all media interactions.

Requirements

• Postgraduate degree in Public Relations, Journalism, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in media relations, public relations, journalism, or a similar role, ideally within the **Media & PR** industry.
• Demonstrated experience serving as a spokesperson or media liaison for a senior executive or organization.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for clear and concise messaging.
• Proven ability to manage high-pressure situations and execute crisis communication plans effectively.Strong understanding of the South African media landscape, particularly in the **Eastern Cape**.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with diverse individuals.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and analysis tools.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in **East London**.
• Political acumen and a deep understanding of public affairs are highly advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund, and ample opportunities for professional development. This role is based in our **East London** office, fostering a professional and collaborative environment. You will have the chance to significantly shape the public perception of a leading organization within the **Media & PR** sector in the **Eastern Cape**. Join a dedicated team and contribute to high-impact communication strategies.