Remote Public Affairs Specialist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Professional development

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 in Remote South Africa is seeking a seasoned Public Affairs Specialist to drive policy influence and public positioning from a fully remote setting. You will shape positions on policy issues, engage with government and industry stakeholders, and craft compelling advocacy communications.

The role requires a Master’s degree in a relevant field and at least six years of public affairs experience, with strong research, writing, presentation skills, and the ability to manage multiple

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Law, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in public affairs, government relations, policy analysis, or a related role, preferably within the media or communications sector.
• Understanding of public policy processes and government affairs in South Africa.
• Ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop effective communication strategies.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with strong presentation abilities.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship building.
• Proficiency in research and data analysis.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a remote setting.
• Strong network within government and policy circles is an advantage.
• Familiarity with media relations and advocacy campaigns.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement public affairs strategies to support policy objectives and enhance public understanding.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments relevant to the client's industry and operations.
• Build and maintain relationships with government officials, policymakers, industry associations, and community leaders.
• Prepare briefing materials, policy summaries, and advocacy communications for various audiences.
• Organize and manage stakeholder engagement events, both virtual and in-person.
• Craft public statements, speeches, and media responses on policy-related matters.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure alignment on public affairs messaging and strategy.
• Analyze public opinion and media coverage related to policy issues.
• Provide strategic counsel to senior leadership on public affairs matters.
• Represent our client in relevant forums and coalitions as required.

Skills

Policy analysis

Public affairs

Government relations

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic communication

Advocacy

Media relations

Research & data analysis

Independent work

Education

Master's degree in Public Policy/Political Science/Law/Communications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a respected organization within the Media & PR sector, is seeking a highly capable Remote Public Affairs Specialist to join their dedicated team. This is a fully remote opportunity, allowing you to contribute to crucial public affairs initiatives from any location. You will play a key role in shaping and communicating our client's positions on relevant policy issues, engaging with stakeholders, and managing public perception. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of public policy, government relations, and strategic communication, with a proven ability to analyze complex issues and develop effective advocacy strategies. We are looking for a proactive and articulate professional who can navigate the intersection of media, policy, and public opinion. This role is vital for strengthening our client's influence and ensuring their voice is heard in key public discourse. Join a forward-thinking company that values remote talent and offers a platform to make a meaningful impact on public policy and perception.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement public affairs strategies to support our client's policy objectives and enhance public understanding.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments relevant to our client's industry and operations.
• Build and maintain relationships with government officials, policymakers, industry associations, and community leaders.
• Prepare briefing materials, policy summaries, and advocacy communications for various audiences.
• Organize and manage stakeholder engagement events, both virtual and in-person (when appropriate).
• Craft public statements, speeches, and media responses on policy-related matters.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure alignment on public affairs messaging and strategy.
• Analyze public opinion and media coverage related to policy issues.
• Provide strategic counsel to senior leadership on public affairs matters.
• Represent our client in relevant forums and coalitions as required.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Law, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in public affairs, government relations, policy analysis, or a related role, preferably within the media or communications sector.
• Demonstrated understanding of public policy processes and government affairs in South Africa.
• Proven ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop effective communication strategies.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with strong presentation abilities.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship building.
• Proficiency in research and data analysis.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a remote setting.
• Strong network within government and policy circles is a significant advantage.
• Familiarity with media relations and advocacy campaigns.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, benchmarked against industry standards, along with performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, are provided.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays, is standard.
• As a fully remote position, you will enjoy the freedom and flexibility to work from your preferred location.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, such as attending policy forums, workshops, and specialized training, are supported.
• You will be part of a dedicated team that values collaboration, impact, and innovation.
• Access to advanced remote work technologies ensures seamless productivity.
• Retirement savings plans with company contributions are available.
• This role offers a unique opportunity to influence policy and public perception from a flexible, remote environment.