Senior Communications Manager

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Health benefits

Training & conferences

Paid time off

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Communications Manager to lead our remote communications strategy for a global technology client. You will shape internal and external messaging, manage media relations, and guide stakeholder engagement from anywhere in South Africa.

You’ll oversee crisis communications, develop integrated plans, counsel senior leadership, and ensure consistent brand voice across channels in a fully remote setup.

Qualifications

• Master's or Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in corporate communications or public relations.
• Proven track record of developing and executing integrated communication strategies.
• Extensive experience in media relations, including securing top-tier media placements.
• Strong understanding of internal communications and employee engagement strategies.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with outstanding presentation abilities.
• Demonstrated experience in crisis communications management.
• Proficiency in communication and PR software, analytics tools, and social media management platforms.
• Ability to work independently, lead cross-functional teams, and manage complex projects in a remote setting.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to influence at all levels of an organization.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive corporate communication strategies, internal and external.
• Oversee media relations, proactive pitching, reactive management, and crisis communications.
• Manage creation and distribution of content across press releases, speeches, social media, website, and internal newsletters.
• Build and maintain relationships with media contacts, influencers, and stakeholders.
• Lead internal communications initiatives to ensure employee alignment and engagement.
• Monitor media coverage and provide insights and strategic recommendations.
• Counsel senior leadership on communication strategies and messaging.
• Manage communication budgets and vendor relationships.
• Develop and execute crisis communication plans to protect and enhance brand reputation.
• Ensure consistent brand voice across channels.

Skills

Corporate communications

Public relations

Media relations

Crisis communications

Stakeholder engagement

Leadership

Remote work management

Education

Master's or Bachelor's degree in Communications/PR/Journaling/Marketing or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading global technology firm, is seeking a seasoned Senior Communications Manager to lead their remote communications strategy. This role is pivotal in shaping and disseminating our client's message across all internal and external channels. As a fully remote position, you will have the opportunity to drive impactful communication initiatives from anywhere within South Africa. We are looking for a strategic visionary with extensive experience in corporate communications, public relations, and stakeholder engagement. You will be responsible for developing and executing integrated communication plans that align with business objectives, enhance brand reputation, and engage key audiences. The ideal candidate is a proactive leader, an exceptional storyteller, and adept at managing complex communication challenges in a virtual environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive corporate communication strategies, both internal and external.
• Oversee all aspects of media relations, including proactive pitching, reactive management, and crisis communications.
• Manage the creation and distribution of compelling content across various platforms: press releases, speeches, social media, website, and internal newsletters.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts, industry influencers, and stakeholders.
• Lead internal communications initiatives to ensure employee alignment and engagement.
• Monitor media coverage and public sentiment, providing insights and strategic recommendations.
• Counsel senior leadership on communication strategies and messaging.
• Manage communication budgets and vendor relationships.
• Develop and execute crisis communication plans to protect and enhance brand reputation.
• Ensure consistency in brand messaging and voice across all communication channels.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in corporate communications or public relations.
• Proven track record of developing and executing successful integrated communication strategies.
• Extensive experience in media relations, including securing top-tier media placements.
• Strong understanding of internal communications and employee engagement strategies.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with outstanding presentation abilities.
• Demonstrated experience in crisis communications management.
• Proficiency in communication and PR software, analytics tools, and social media management platforms.
• Ability to work independently, lead cross-functional teams, and manage complex projects in a remote setting.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to influence at all levels of an organization.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a substantial annual salary and significant performance-based bonuses, reflecting the critical nature of this role. This is a fully remote position, offering unparalleled flexibility and the freedom to design your optimal work environment. Comprehensive health benefits, including medical aid, dental, and vision insurance, are provided. We are committed to your professional growth, offering access to advanced training programs, industry conferences, and opportunities for continued education. You will join a globally distributed, highly collaborative team environment that fosters innovation and mutual support. Generous paid time off, including annual leave and public holidays, is standard. Potential for significant career advancement within the organization, including leadership opportunities, is a key feature of this role.