SALGA SPOKESPERSON

South African Local Government Association; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 750,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization is seeking a seasoned Communication Specialist to manage stakeholder relationships and public communications effectively. This role requires significant experience in the Local Government Sector, focusing on strengthening SALGA's brand and ensuring high standards of public information management. Ideal candidates will have a strong analytical mindset and exceptional communication skills, demonstrating integrity and commitment to SALGA’s mission.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years' relevant experience with 5 in a similar role.
• Sound understanding of Local Government Sector policies and legislation.

Responsibilities

• Arrange and attend press conferences to enhance strategic external communications.
• Manage public information and control the flow of information about SALGA.
• Present SALGA’s message positively through various media.

Skills

Stakeholder Management

Analytical Ability

Problem-Solving

Business Communication

Emotional Maturity

Education

Post-graduate qualification at Hons level in Communication studies

Job description

Job Location : Gauteng, Pretoria Deadline : June 23, 2025 Quick Recommended Links

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THE CANDIDATE PROFILE

• Stakeholder Management and Influencing Skills
• High degree of self-management, pro-activeness and high levels of emotional maturity
• Strong analytical ability coupled with sound problem-solving skills
• Business Communication and writing skills (opinions, positions, feedback & presentation)
• High integrity and ethics
• Culture fit : SALGA desires an individual who will share and buy-in, in our core values, mission and vision, demonstrating a commitment to our 's ethos beyond just doing the job

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Relevant Post-graduate qualification at Hons level in Communication studies or equivalent (Masters in Communication / / MBA will be advantageous)
• At least 10 years’ relevant experience of which at least 5 years have been at an equivalent level within a medium to large-sized organisation
• Sector Knowledge and a sound understanding of the policy, legislative and regulatory frameworks governing the sector; and in particular those applying to the LG Sector and SALGA

Demonstrates a sound understanding of the Local Government Sector

KEY PORTFOLIO AND PERFORMANCE FOCUS AREAS

• Arrange and attend Press Conferences : Create and implement a plan of strategic external communications directed towards SALGA’s stakeholders and the general public. This includes :
• Schedule and or coordinate press releases, editorials, website content, Local Government analysis briefing notes;
• Contacting members of the press, delivering prepared remarks, and handling press questions regarding an organization’s activities;
• Keep SALGA employees and leadership informed of SALGA’s activities
• Provide updates on situations and legislative accomplishments.
• Attend conferences and industry events as the “face” of the SALGA;
• Building recognition and trust through in-person events and meetings. Hosts organization events to build a network, enhance brand recognition and trust, and reach potential customers or other members of the public.
• Manage Public Information : Responsible for getting information about the organization out to the public and controlling the flow of that information. Work closely with brand managers and Public Relations professionals to craft statements and press releases, ensuring that information is relevant and timely. Guide public conversation about SALGA by directing conversations and managing the balance between publicly available information and private developments.
• Present the SALGA’s Message : Sharing SALGA’s or brand’s message, Work with Marketing and Communication personnel to craft a narrative and ensure that public statements are in line with the SALGA’s goals and objectives. Present SALGA in a positive light and ensure that talking points are successfully spread to the public and other audiences. Drafting speeches, reports and researching relevant literature. Perform ad-hoc tasks as and when required
• Minimize Negative Publicity : Responsible for damage control following negative publicity or media coverage. Liaise with the to the public to clear up confusion, answer questions, and attempt to change the narrative by focusing on the SALGA’s positive accomplishments. Clear up any false or misleading coverage of the organization. Corporate Governance and Risk Management : Uphold sound corporate governance principles in the day-to-day operation of the area of responsibility / professional discipline. Ensure compliance with organisational policies and procedures. Identify and mitigate organisational and operational risks identified in the area of responsibility / professional discipline
• Stakeholder Relations : Within the scope of area of accountability lead the building and maintenance of relevant stakeholder relationships / partnerships in the area of responsibility / professional discipline
• Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting : Implement monitoring and evaluation in own area of accountability in line with the SALGA-wide M&E framework and mechanism to determine baseline of performance and impact. Monitor and report on the progress of the operational plan and take necessary action to ensure that the goals and targets of the area of responsibility is met within time, quality and budget requirements