Senior Communications Strategist

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Health benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a forward-looking, sustainability-focused organization to recruit a Senior Communications Strategist for a fully remote role based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA. You will drive strategic communications, shape the organization’s narrative, and manage both online and offline presence while engaging diverse stakeholders across Port Elizabeth and beyond.

The role requires a master’s in a related field and 8–12 years of progressive experience in communications

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• 8–12 years of progressive experience in communications strategy and execution, preferably in non-profit or social impact sector.
• Proven success in developing and implementing large-scale communication campaigns.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and presentation skills with a strong portfolio.
• Ability to build and manage relationships with diverse stakeholders, including media and government.
• Expertise in crisis communication and reputation management.
• Deep understanding of digital channels, social media strategy, and analytics.
• Experience working remotely and managing distributed teams is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement comprehensive communication strategies aligned with organizational objectives.
• Develop compelling content for press releases, annual reports, digital media, and advocacy materials.
• Oversee and manage the organization's brand identity and messaging across platforms.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with media representatives, government officials, and community leaders.
• Lead proactive media outreach and manage media requests.
• Develop and implement crisis communication plans with timely responses.
• Manage website content, social media presence, and digital engagement initiatives.
• Monitor and analyze media coverage and public sentiment, providing actionable insights.
• Collaborate with program teams to communicate project outcomes and impact.
• Mentor and guide junior communications staff and external agencies.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Leadership

Media relations

Crisis communication

Digital analytics

Stakeholder engagement

Remote leadership

Education

Master's degree in Communications or related field

Tools

Social media analytics

Content management systems

Media monitoring tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking organization dedicated to sustainable development, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Communications Strategist for a fully remote position. This is a pivotal role based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA, where you will lead the development and execution of innovative communication strategies that amplify our impact and engage diverse stakeholders. You will be responsible for shaping our narrative, managing our online and offline presence, and fostering meaningful connections with our community, partners, and the public. This remote-first role demands a strategic thinker with a proven ability to deliver measurable results in communication and public relations, contributing to significant projects across Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement comprehensive communication strategies aligned with organizational objectives.
• Develop compelling content for various channels, including press releases, annual reports, digital media, and advocacy materials.
• Oversee and manage the organization's brand identity and messaging across all platforms.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with media representatives, government officials, and community leaders.
• Lead proactive media outreach and manage all incoming media requests.
• Develop and implement crisis communication plans, ensuring timely and appropriate responses.
• Manage the organization's website content, social media presence, and digital engagement initiatives.
• Monitor and analyze media coverage and public sentiment, providing actionable insights and recommendations.
• Collaborate closely with program teams to effectively communicate project outcomes and impact.
• Mentor and guide junior communications staff and external agencies.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8-12 years of progressive experience in communications strategy and execution, preferably in the non-profit or social impact sector.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing large-scale communication campaigns.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and presentation skills, with a strong portfolio.
• Proven ability to build and manage relationships with diverse stakeholders, including media and government.
• Expertise in crisis communication and reputation management.
• Deep understanding of digital communication channels, social media strategy, and analytics.
• Experience working remotely and managing distributed teams is highly desirable.
• Strategic thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to translate complex information into clear messages.
• Strong leadership qualities and a passion for driving positive change.

Benefits

• As a fully remote employee, you will enjoy the ultimate flexibility and autonomy.
• Our client offers an excellent compensation package, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, performance-based incentives, and significant opportunities for professional growth.
• You’ll be part of an impactful organization making a real difference in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA and beyond, working on meaningful projects from the comfort of your home office.
• This role provides the opportunity to shape strategy and lead key initiatives.