Senior Media Relations Manager (Remote-First)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Generous paid time off

Professional development

Remote work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Media Relations Manager to lead external communications in a remote-first setup across South Africa. You will shape strategies, build journalist relationships and craft compelling narratives to enhance the organization’s public image.

You will oversee media materials, monitor sentiment, report results and support executives with crisis communications while collaborating with marketing and leadership teams. A deep SA media network is essential.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in media relations, PR, or corporate communications.
• Proven success delivering strategic media campaigns with measurable results.
• Exceptional writing and verbal communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of the South African media landscape.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive media relations strategies.
• Cultivate relationships with journalists, influencers and outlets.
• Pitch stories, releases and media opportunities regularly.
• Monitor coverage, analyze results and report impact and sentiment.
• Provide guidance to spokespersons and manage crisis communications.

Skills

Media relations

Public relations

Corporate communications

Crisis communications

Storytelling

Relationship management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications/PR/Journaling

Master's degree a plus

Tools

Media monitoring tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly growing organization in the media and public relations sector, is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Senior Media Relations Manager to join their globally distributed team. This is a fully remote, remote-first position, offering unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to work from anywhere within South Africa. The successful candidate will be instrumental in shaping and executing strategic communication plans, fostering strong relationships with media outlets, and enhancing the public image of the organization. We are looking for a proactive individual with a proven track record of success in media engagement and a passion for crafting compelling narratives. This role demands a strategic thinker with exceptional communication skills and a deep understanding of the media landscape. You will be at the forefront of our client's external communications efforts, driving impactful campaigns that resonate with key audiences. The emphasis on a remote-first culture means that collaboration, clear communication, and digital-first engagement strategies are paramount.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive media relations strategies aligned with overall communication goals.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, positive relationships with journalists, influencers, and key media stakeholders across various platforms.
• Proactively pitch stories, press releases, and media opportunities to relevant publications and outlets.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze results, and provide regular reports on media impact and sentiment.
• Craft compelling press materials, including press releases, media kits, talking points, and speeches.
• Manage crisis communication efforts, providing timely and accurate information to the media.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including marketing and executive teams, to ensure consistent messaging.
• Identify emerging media trends and opportunities to enhance brand visibility.
• Organize and manage media events, press conferences, and interviews.
• Provide guidance and support to spokespersons.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in media relations, public relations, or corporate communications, preferably within the media sector.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing media strategies that achieve measurable results.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to craft persuasive and engaging content.
• Strong understanding of the South African media landscape and key media contacts.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and analysis tools.
• Experience in crisis communications and reputation management.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote, fast-paced environment.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• A results-oriented mindset with a keen eye for detail.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• A supportive and collaborative remote work environment.
• The chance to make a significant impact in a leading organization.
• Access to cutting-edge communication tools and technologies.
• Potential for career advancement within a growing company.