Senior Communications Manager

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Executive-level benefits including 健康?

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development opportunities

Career advancement opportunities

Paid time off

Inclusive work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Communications Manager for its Stellenbosch offices in the Western Cape. This hybrid role blends remote work with in‑person collaboration to lead a team of communications professionals, oversee media relations, and guide internal and external messaging while supporting crisis management.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s in Communications or related field, 7–10 years in communications with 3+ years in management, strong leadership and public speaking

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• 7–10 years of experience in communications, with at least 3 years in a management or leadership role.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with strong public speaking and presentation abilities.
• Demonstrated experience in media relations, crisis communications, and reputation management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement integrated communication strategies across all channels (internal and external).
• Lead and mentor the communications team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Manage media relations, build relationships with key journalists, and secure positive media coverage.
• Oversee the creation and distribution of press releases, speeches, presentations, and other communication materials.
• Develop and execute crisis communication plans, acting as a key point of contact during sensitive situations.
• Manage internal communications to ensure employees are informed and engaged.
• Monitor media coverage and analyze communication campaign effectiveness.
• Collaborate with marketing, HR, and other departments to ensure consistent brand messaging.
• Advise senior leadership on communication strategies and potential issues.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and best practices in communications and public relations.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Leadership

Media relations

Crisis communications

Public speaking

Internal communications

External communications

Social media analytics

Education

Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field

Tools

Social media management tools

Analytics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Communications Manager for their offices in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This critical role involves developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies that align with the company’s objectives and enhance its brand reputation. As a hybrid role, you will enjoy a blend of remote work flexibility and in‑office collaboration in the picturesque setting of Stellenbosch. You will lead a team of communication professionals, oversee media relations, manage internal and external communications, and play a key role in crisis management. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with exceptional leadership and communication skills, a deep understanding of the media landscape, and a proven track record of success in managing complex communication initiatives. This is a prime opportunity to make a significant impact on a leading organization in the Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement integrated communication strategies across all channels (internal and external).
• Lead and mentor the communications team, fostering a collaborative and high‑performing environment.
• Manage media relations, build relationships with key journalists, and secure positive media coverage.
• Oversee the creation and distribution of press releases, speeches, presentations, and other communication materials.
• Develop and execute crisis communication plans, acting as a key point of contact during sensitive situations.
• Manage internal communications to ensure employees are informed and engaged.
• Monitor media coverage and analyze communication campaign effectiveness.
• Collaborate with marketing, HR, and other departments to ensure consistent brand messaging.
• Advise senior leadership on communication strategies and potential issues.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and best practices in communications and public relations.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in communications, with at least 3 years in a management or leadership role.
• Proven success in developing and executing strategic communication plans.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with strong public speaking and presentation abilities.
• Demonstrated experience in media relations, crisis communications, and reputation management.
• Strong leadership qualities and experience managing a team.
• Proficiency in various communication tools and platforms, including social media management and analytics.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, demonstrating strong self‑management and collaboration skills.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Experience in the Stellenbosch, Western Cape region is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, executive-level benefits including comprehensive health insurance, and a generous retirement fund.
• Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid work arrangement, combining remote work with opportunities for in‑person collaboration in our Stellenbosch office.
• Extensive professional development opportunities, including leadership training and conference attendance, are available.
• Join a dynamic and innovative team with significant opportunities for career advancement.
• Our client provides ample paid time off and promotes a healthy work‑life balance.
• We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and empowering work environment in the heart of the Western Cape.