Remote Head of Media Relations & Strategic Communications

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation

Remote work flexibility

Health insurance

Executive leave

Professional development

Stock options

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Head of Media Relations to drive media strategy and engagement for a leading media and communications client. The role combines strategic oversight, executive communication, and remote leadership, with responsibility for high-impact campaigns and crisis response.

You will manage media outreach, nurture strong journalist relationships, and collaborate with senior leadership to shape the company’s public narrative on a global scale.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or related field.
• 10+ years in media relations or PR with leadership responsibility.
• Proven track record managing high-profile media campaigns and crisis comms.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication with persuasive messaging.
• Extensive network of media contacts across sectors.
• Ability to work autonomously and lead remote teams.
• Deep understanding of digital media and evolving PR tech.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a visionary media relations strategy aligning with business goals.
• Lead and mentor a team of media relations professionals.
• Serve as primary spokesperson for media inquiries and engagements.
• Identify and pursue strategic media opportunities to boost visibility.
• Manage reputational risks through crisis communication planning.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with national and international media.
• Oversee creation and distribution of press releases and media materials.
• Monitor media coverage and provide strategic insights to leadership.
• Collaborate with executives, marketing, and other departments on messaging.
• Stay ahead of industry trends and competitive activities.

Skills

Media leadership

Crisis communications

Strategic planning

Team mentoring

Stakeholder engagement

Persuasive messaging

Education

Master's degree in Public Relations / Communications / Journalism

Job description

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Head of Media Relations to drive media strategy and engagement for a leading media and communications client. The role combines strategic oversight, executive communication, and remote leadership, with responsibility for high-impact campaigns and crisis response.

You will manage media outreach, nurture strong journalist relationships, and collaborate with senior leadership to shape the company’s public narrative on a global scale.