Senior Media Relations Specialist

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work model

Exposure to high-profile clients

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Media Relations Specialist to join a dynamic media and communications firm in East London. This hybrid role focuses on shaping public image, developing media strategies, and building strong relationships with journalists to secure positive coverage.

The ideal candidate has at least five years in PR or corporate communications, exceptional writing and verbal skills, and a proven track record of successful campaigns.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in PR, communications, journalism, marketing, or related field.
• At least 5 years of progressive media relations or PR experience.
• Proven success in developing and executing strategic media campaigns.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of SA media landscape and contacts.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement media relations strategies aligned with goals.
• Maintain relationships with media across print, broadcast, and digital.
• Draft press releases and PR materials.
• Organize press events and interviews.
• Monitor coverage and report results.
• Respond to media inquiries as primary contact.
• Identify opportunities for positive coverage and thought leadership.
• Collaborate to ensure consistent messaging.
• Manage crisis communications when needed.
• Stay informed on industry trends and media technology.

Skills

Media relations

Press writing

Relationship building

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in PR/Communications/Journalism/Marketing

Tools

Media monitoring tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and forward-thinking media and communications firm, is seeking an experienced Senior Media Relations Specialist to join their growing team. This role is pivotal in shaping and enhancing our client's public image and brand reputation. You will be instrumental in developing and executing comprehensive media strategies, building strong relationships with journalists and media outlets, and ensuring consistent, positive coverage. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of media landscapes, exceptional communication skills, and a proven track record of successful PR campaigns. This hybrid position offers a balance of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, based in the vibrant city of **East London, Eastern Cape, ZA**.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative media relations strategies aligned with our client's overall communication objectives.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, proactive relationships with key media contacts across print, broadcast, and digital platforms.
• Craft compelling press releases, media advisories, and other PR materials.
• Organize and manage press conferences, media events, and interviews.
• Monitor media coverage and analyze campaign effectiveness, providing regular reports and insights.
• Respond to media inquiries swiftly and professionally, acting as a primary point of contact.
• Identify and capitalize on opportunities for positive media coverage and thought leadership.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure consistent messaging across all communication channels.
• Manage crisis communications effectively, mitigating reputational damage.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging media technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in media relations, public relations, or corporate communications, preferably within a PR agency or in-house communications department.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing strategic media campaigns.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for crafting persuasive and accurate content.
• Strong understanding of the South African media landscape and key journalistic contacts.
• Proven ability to build and nurture relationships with media personnel.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and analysis tools.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, demonstrating self-discipline and proactive engagement.
• A keen eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work with a reputable and growing organization.
• Exposure to a wide range of industries and high-profile clients.
• Hybrid work model promoting work-life balance.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Collaborative and supportive team environment in **East London, Eastern Cape, ZA**.