Senior Media Relations Specialist

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Hybrid work model

Health & retirement benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Supportive team environment

Annual bonus opportunities

Generous leave policy

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA, seeks an experienced Senior Media Relations Specialist to join a dynamic team in a hybrid setup. You will develop and execute media relations strategies, build relationships with journalists, and manage the company’s public profile across platforms.

The ideal candidate has 5–7 years in media relations, a Bachelor's degree in Communications/PR, and a proven record of securing national and regional coverage, plus crisis communications and media

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or related field.
• 5-7 years in media relations or public relations, preferably corporate.
• Proven success securing coverage in national and regional outlets.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong understanding of media landscape and journalistic practices.
• Proven ability to manage crisis communications effectively.
• Experience with media monitoring and reporting tools.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive media relations strategies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts across platforms.
• Craft press releases, media kits, and spokespeople talking points.
• Proactively pitch stories and secure positive media coverage.
• Monitor media coverage and provide analysis and reporting to senior management.
• Respond to media inquiries promptly and effectively.
• Develop and manage crisis communication plans and protocols.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging.
• Manage media attendance and logistics for company events.
• Stay informed about industry trends and competitor activities.

Skills

Media relations

Crisis communications

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic thinking

Communications excellence

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications/Journalism/PR

Tools

Media monitoring tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Media Relations Specialist to join their dynamic team in Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA. This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, providing a blend of remote flexibility and in-office collaboration. You will be responsible for developing and executing media relations strategies, cultivating strong relationships with journalists and media outlets, and managing the company's public profile. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of the media landscape, exceptional communication skills, and a proven track record in securing positive media coverage. You will play a critical role in shaping our client's narrative, responding to media inquiries, and contributing to the overall success of the communications department. This position requires a strategic thinker with a proactive approach and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive media relations strategies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts across various platforms.
• Craft compelling press releases, media kits, and spokespeople talking points.
• Proactively pitch stories and secure positive media coverage for the company.
• Monitor media coverage and provide analysis and reporting to senior management.
• Respond to media inquiries promptly and effectively.
• Develop and manage crisis communication plans and protocols.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging.
• Manage media attendance and logistics for company events.
• Stay informed about industry trends and competitor activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in media relations or public relations, preferably within a corporate environment.
• Demonstrated success in securing media coverage in national and regional outlets.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong understanding of the media landscape and journalistic practices.
• Proven ability to manage crisis communications effectively.
• Experience with media monitoring and reporting tools.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• A strategic mindset and proactive approach to media outreach.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Hybrid work model promoting flexibility.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Supportive team environment.
• Annual bonus opportunities.
• Generous leave policy.