Public Affairs Specialist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Soweto, Gauteng, is seeking a strategic Public Affairs Specialist to lead government relations, community engagement, and CSR initiatives. The role focuses on fostering positive stakeholder relationships and shaping the company's public image in the Soweto region.

You will manage relationships with officials and community leaders, monitor policy developments, and develop strategic recommendations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Communications, Law, or a related field.
• Master's degree is an advantage.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in public affairs, government relations, corporate communications, or a related role.
• Proven experience building and maintaining relationships with government and community stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of public policy, legislative processes, and regulatory frameworks relevant to the logistics sector.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Experience in managing CSR programs and stakeholder engagement initiatives.
• High integrity, discretion, and professionalism.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement public affairs strategies to support business objectives and enhance corporate reputation.
• Manage relationships with government officials, policymakers, and community leaders.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments affecting the industry and the company.
• Advocate for the company's interests through direct engagement and participation in industry associations.
• Develop and execute CSR programs and community outreach initiatives.
• Prepare briefing materials, reports, and presentations for senior management on public affairs matters.
• Organize and participate in community events, forums, and stakeholder meetings.
• Manage crisis communications related to public policy or community issues.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure alignment on public affairs messaging and activities.

Skills

Stakeholder engagement

Public policy knowledge

Strategic thinking

Communication skills

Negotiation

Presentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Communications, Law, or related field

Master's degree (advantage)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the logistics and supply chain industry, is seeking a strategic Public Affairs Specialist to join their team in Soweto, Gauteng . This vital role involves managing government relations, community engagement, and corporate social responsibility initiatives to foster positive stakeholder relationships and enhance the company's public image. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a deep understanding of public policy and community dynamics. This is a significant opportunity to influence public perception and build impactful partnerships in the Soweto region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement public affairs strategies to support business objectives and enhance corporate reputation.
• Manage relationships with government officials, policymakers, and community leaders.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments affecting the industry and the company.
• Advocate for the company's interests through direct engagement and participation in industry associations.
• Develop and execute corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs and community outreach initiatives.
• Prepare briefing materials, reports, and presentations for senior management on public affairs matters.
• Organize and participate in community events, forums, and stakeholder meetings.
• Manage crisis communications related to public policy or community issues.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure alignment on public affairs messaging and activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Communications, Law, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is an advantage.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in public affairs, government relations, corporate communications, or a related role.
• Proven experience in building and maintaining relationships with government and community stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of public policy, legislative processes, and regulatory frameworks relevant to the logistics sector.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex issues and develop strategic recommendations.
• Experience in managing CSR programs and stakeholder engagement initiatives.
• High level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be based in or able to commute to Soweto, Gauteng .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive annual salary of ZAR , commensurate with experience and qualifications. The comprehensive benefits package includes health insurance, a retirement plan, and ample paid time off. Opportunities for professional growth and development are available. This hybrid role provides flexibility and the chance to make a significant impact in Soweto and beyond.