Senior Communications Manager - Brand Strategy

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, seeks a Senior Communications Manager to lead brand strategy and PR efforts. You will shape the narrative, align communications with business objectives, and oversee crises, media relations, and internal/external messaging.

You will manage a team of communications professionals, collaborate with marketing, sales, and executive leadership, and drive integrated digital and traditional channels to enhance reputation and stakeholder engagement in the

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Communications, PR, Marketing, or related field.
• 8–10 years in communications and PR, with >=3 years in management.
• Proven experience in integrated communications strategies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong stakeholder management and crisis handling abilities.
• Experience with digital communication tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and execution of brand and communications strategies.
• Oversee public relations, media relations, and crisis communications.
• Manage internal and external communications and brand voice.
• Lead and mentor the communications team.
• Build relationships with media, influencers, and stakeholders in Stellenbosch.
• Collaborate with marketing, sales, and executive teams.
• Oversee content across digital channels and measure impact.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Public relations

Leadership

Media relations

Digital communications

Stakeholder management

Education

Master's degree in Communications

Tools

Hootsuite

Cision

Analytical tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established organization with a strong presence in **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**, is seeking an experienced Senior Communications Manager to lead its brand strategy and public relations efforts. This senior role is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive communication plans that enhance brand visibility, reputation, and stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional strategic thinking, strong leadership qualities, and a deep understanding of integrated communications across traditional and digital media. Based in the heart of the **Western Cape**, this position offers a unique opportunity to shape the narrative of a prominent company and contribute to its continued success in a competitive market.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement overarching communications and brand strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee all public relations activities, including media relations, press releases, and crisis communications.
• Manage internal and external communications, ensuring consistent messaging and brand voice.
• Lead and mentor a team of communications professionals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts, industry influencers, and stakeholders in **Stellenbosch**.
• Develop and manage the communications budget.
• Monitor industry trends and competitor activities, providing strategic insights.
• Collaborate closely with marketing, sales, and executive leadership teams.
• Oversee content creation and distribution across all communication channels, including digital platforms.
• Measure and report on the effectiveness of communication strategies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or equivalent qualification in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in communications and public relations, with at least 3 years in a management role.
• Proven experience in developing and executing successful, integrated communication strategies.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a strong command of persuasive language.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and crisis situations.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Proficiency in digital communication tools and strategies.
• Experience working within the **Western Cape** business environment is highly valued.
• Strategic thinker with a data-driven approach to communications.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model in **Stellenbosch**.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, executive-level benefits, and significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership development. Employees will work in a stimulating and collaborative environment in **Stellenbosch**. This role provides the chance to make a substantial impact on brand perception and corporate reputation in **South Africa**. We are committed to fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. Join our client and be a key leader in shaping compelling communication strategies in the **Western Cape**.