Senior Media Relations Manager

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Media Relations Manager to lead media strategies from a fully remote position, supporting initiatives across the East London region and nationally. You will cultivate key media relationships, craft persuasive messaging, and drive proactive coverage while managing crisis communications and protecting the brand.

The role requires a Master’s degree and 8+ years in media relations, with strong leadership and remote-working experience in a dynamic, results-driven

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Communications, PR, Journalism, or related field.
• 8+ years in media relations with high-profile accounts.
• Deep understanding of SA media landscape and national relationships.
• Strong writing, editing, storytelling skills.
• Experience in crisis communications and reputation management.
• Leadership and remote-team management experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement proactive media relations strategies to meet objectives.
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists, editors, influencers across media types.
• Manage media inquiries, pitch stories, and secure coverage.
• Oversee crisis communication planning and act as primary media contact.
• Analyze media coverage, track campaign effectiveness, and provide strategic insights.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders for consistent messaging and brand alignment.

Skills

Media relations

Crisis communications

Writing & storytelling

Leadership

Education

Master's degree in Communications/PR/Journalism

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Senior Media Relations Manager to lead their public relations efforts from a fully remote position, supporting initiatives across the East London region and nationally. This critical role involves developing and executing comprehensive media strategies, cultivating key media relationships, and managing the organization's public profile. You will be instrumental in shaping public perception and driving positive media coverage through proactive and impactful engagement. Thrive in a dynamic, remote-first environment that encourages innovation, strategic thinking, and measurable success, contributing to our client's thought leadership and brand reputation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement proactive media relations strategies to achieve communication and business objectives.
• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key journalists, editors, and influencers across all media types.
• Manage all media inquiries, proactively pitch compelling story ideas, and secure positive media coverage.
• Oversee crisis communication planning and execution, acting as a primary media contact during sensitive situations.
• Analyze media coverage, track campaign effectiveness, and provide strategic insights and recommendations.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with brand strategy.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• 8+ years of extensive experience in media relations, with a proven track record in managing high-profile accounts or organizations.
• Deep understanding of the South African media landscape and established relationships with national media.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with the ability to craft persuasive messages.
• Demonstrated success in crisis communications and reputation management.
• Strong leadership qualities and experience managing remote teams or projects effectively.

Benefits

• Highly competitive senior-level salary with significant performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Substantial budget for professional development, including conferences and training.
• Fully remote work arrangement, offering exceptional flexibility and work-life balance.
• Opportunity to shape and lead high-impact media strategies for a respected organization.