Remote Senior Media Relations Officer

Placements24; Gauteng; Remote; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote position

Competitive salary

Comprehensive health benefits

Professional development opportunities

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Media Relations Officer for a remote position, though the role is anchored to a Pretoria, Gauteng mindset with global reach. You will craft compelling narratives, respond to media inquiries, and strengthen the organization’s relationships with media across platforms.

The ideal candidate has 5–7 years of hands-on media relations experience and a proven track record securing coverage.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related discipline.
• 5–7 years of hands-on experience in media relations, PR, or journalism.
• Proven success in securing positive media coverage across national and international platforms.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for crafting engaging content.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with diverse media contacts.
• Demonstrated ability to manage sensitive issues and crisis communications effectively.
• Proficiency in media monitoring tools and reporting techniques.
• Highly organized, self-directed, and capable of thriving in an independent, remote work environment.
• Strong understanding of the South African media landscape and key players.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic media relations plans to enhance brand visibility and reputation.
• Proactively identify opportunities for media coverage and build relationships with key journalists and media outlets.
• Respond promptly and professionally to media inquiries, acting as a primary point of contact.
• Craft clear, concise press releases, media statements, and talking points.
• Monitor media coverage, identify potential issues, and develop proactive communication strategies.
• Organize and facilitate interviews for company spokespersons, providing briefing materials.
• Collaborate with internal communications to ensure aligned messaging.
• Track and report on media coverage and campaign effectiveness.
• Support the development and implementation of crisis communication plans.
• Stay informed about industry trends and competitor media activities.

Skills

Media relations

Public relations

Crisis communications

Storytelling

Written communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications

Tools

Media monitoring tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a highly experienced Senior Media Relations Officer to join their team in a fully remote capacity. While the role is based conceptually in Pretoria, Gauteng, the successful candidate will have the freedom to work from any location. This position is critical for managing and strengthening the organization's relationships with media across various platforms. You will be instrumental in crafting compelling narratives, responding to media inquiries, and ensuring positive public perception. If you possess a deep understanding of media dynamics, a knack for storytelling, and the discipline to excel in a remote-first work environment, this is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a respected organization from anywhere in South Africa or globally. We are looking for a strategic thinker who can drive impactful media engagement remotely.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic media relations plans to enhance brand visibility and reputation.
• Proactively identify opportunities for media coverage and build relationships with key journalists and media outlets.
• Respond promptly and professionally to media inquiries, acting as a primary point of contact.
• Craft clear, concise, and compelling press releases, media statements, and talking points.
• Monitor media coverage, identify potential issues, and develop proactive communication strategies.
• Organize and facilitate interviews for company spokespersons, providing them with necessary briefing materials.
• Collaborate with the internal communications team to ensure alignment of messaging.
• Track and report on media coverage and campaign effectiveness.
• Support the development and implementation of crisis communication plans.
• Stay informed about industry trends and competitor media activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of hands-on experience in media relations, public relations, or journalism.
• Proven success in securing positive media coverage across national and international platforms.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for crafting engaging content.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with diverse media contacts.
• Demonstrated ability to manage sensitive issues and crisis communications effectively.
• Proficiency in media monitoring tools and reporting techniques.
• Highly organized, self-directed, and capable of thriving in an independent, remote work environment.
• Strong understanding of the South African media landscape and key players.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

Benefits

• Fully remote position offering maximum flexibility.
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Access to cutting-edge communication tools and resources.
• Be part of a forward-thinking team committed to impactful communication.