Public Relations Manager - Sustainability Initiatives

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Public Relations Manager to lead sustainability communications from Upington, Northern Cape. The role focuses on ESG storytelling, brand reputation, and stakeholder engagement with a hybrid work setup.

You will develop PR strategies, manage media relations, craft thought leadership content, and collaborate with internal teams to ensure messaging aligns with environmental and social goals in South Africa.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, PR, Environmental Studies, or related field.
• 6–8 years of PR/corporate communications experience with a sustainability focus.
• Proven track record in sustainability-focused PR campaigns.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong understanding of SA environmental and social landscape.
• Experience in media relations and stakeholder engagement.
• Hybrid work capability in Upington.
• Passion for environmental and social responsibility.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking.
• Proficiency in PR tools and platforms.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement integrated PR strategies focused on sustainability and ESG initiatives.
• Manage media relations with environmental, business, and general news outlets.
• Craft press releases, case studies, impact reports, and thought leadership content.
• Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders, NGOs, and community groups focused on sustainability.
• Monitor media coverage and public discourse on sustainability topics relevant to Upington.
• Collaborate with internal sustainability teams, marketing, and leadership to ensure messaging consistency.
• Support crisis communications related to environmental or social issues.
• Organize and promote sustainability-focused events and dialogues.
• Stay abreast of evolving sustainability trends and best practices.
• Measure and report on the effectiveness of sustainability communications.

Skills

Communication skills

Media relations

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic thinking

Hybrid work adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in sustainable development, is seeking an experienced Public Relations Manager to lead communications for its sustainability initiatives, based in Upington, Northern Cape. This role is vital for effectively communicating our client's commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles to stakeholders, media, and the public. The Public Relations Manager will develop and execute PR strategies that highlight our client's positive impact, build brand reputation, and foster stakeholder engagement around sustainability. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of sustainability issues and a proven ability to translate complex concepts into clear, compelling communications within the Northern Cape context.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement integrated PR strategies focused on sustainability and ESG initiatives.
• Manage media relations with environmental, business, and general news outlets.
• Craft press releases, case studies, impact reports, and thought leadership content.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, NGOs, and community groups focused on sustainability.
• Monitor media coverage and public discourse on sustainability topics relevant to Upington.
• Collaborate with internal sustainability teams, marketing, and leadership to ensure consistent messaging.
• Support crisis communications related to environmental or social issues.
• Organize and promote sustainability-focused events and dialogues.
• Stay abreast of evolving sustainability trends and best practices.
• Measure and report on the effectiveness of sustainability communications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Environmental Studies, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of experience in public relations or corporate communications, with a significant focus on sustainability or ESG.
• Proven track record in developing and executing successful sustainability-focused PR campaigns.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex issues clearly.
• Strong understanding of sustainability principles and the environmental/social landscape in South Africa.
• Experience in media relations and stakeholder engagement is essential.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment in Upington.
• Passion for environmental and social responsibility.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Proficiency in relevant PR and communication tools.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and significant opportunities for professional growth in the rapidly evolving field of sustainability communications. Employees benefit from working on impactful initiatives that contribute to a better future. This hybrid role offers flexibility and the chance to make a real difference in the Northern Cape. We foster a collaborative and purpose-driven work environment. Join our client and lead impactful communication efforts in Upington, ZA.