Senior Media Relations Specialist

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Medical and dental coverage

Provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 in Johannesburg seeks a Senior Media Relations Specialist to shape public image and drive high-impact media campaigns for a leading media and communications group.

You will develop and execute comprehensive media strategies, cultivate relationships with journalists and influencers, manage crisis communications, and advise executives on reputational risks in a dynamic Johannesburg market.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years in media relations, PR, or corporate communications in fast-paced environments.
• Proven track record in developing and executing media relations strategies.
• Established network of media contacts across industries.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; storytelling and persuasive writing.
• Experience in crisis communications and reputation management.
• Strong media monitoring and analysis capabilities.
• Ability to work in a hybrid model (office + remote).
• Proficient in media relations software and social platforms.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic media relations plans to achieve objectives and enhance brand visibility.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with media contacts, journalists, bloggers, and influencers.
• Craft press releases, media alerts, and talking points for executives and spokespeople.
• Pitch stories and secure coverage in national, regional, and trade outlets.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze results, and report sentiment and impact.
• Manage media inquiries and coordinate interviews and press conferences.
• Develop and manage crisis communication plans and respond to sensitive situations.
• Advise senior leadership on media strategy and reputational risks.
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and opportunities.

Skills

Media relations

Verbal communication

Written communication

Influencer relations

Crisis communication

Media monitoring

Networking

Strategic planning

Storytelling

Education

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

Tools

Media relations software

Social media platforms

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding media and communications conglomerate, is seeking a highly strategic and experienced Senior Media Relations Specialist to join their vibrant team in **Johannesburg, Gauteng**. This role is central to shaping and enhancing the company's public image and reputation across various platforms. You will be responsible for developing and executing comprehensive media strategies, cultivating strong relationships with journalists and influencers, and managing crisis communications effectively. This is an exceptional opportunity to influence public perception and drive impactful media campaigns for a prominent organization within the bustling **Johannesburg** media landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic media relations plans to achieve company objectives and enhance brand visibility.
• Build and maintain strong, positive relationships with key media contacts, journalists, bloggers, and influencers across all relevant sectors.
• Craft compelling press releases, media alerts, and talking points for executives and spokespeople.
• Proactively pitch stories and secure positive media coverage in national, regional, and trade publications.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze results, and provide regular reports on media sentiment and impact.
• Manage incoming media inquiries and coordinate interviews and press conferences.
• Develop and manage crisis communication plans, responding swiftly and effectively to sensitive situations.
• Advise senior leadership on media strategy and reputational risks.
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging media opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in media relations, public relations, or corporate communications, preferably within a fast-paced agency or corporate environment.
• Proven track record of successfully developing and executing media relations strategies.
• Established network of media contacts across various industries.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for storytelling and persuasive writing.
• Experience in crisis communications and reputation management.
• Strong media monitoring and analysis capabilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing office-based collaboration with remote autonomy.
• Proficiency in media relations software and social media platforms.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, a provident fund, and generous annual leave. Our client provides excellent opportunities for professional growth, including ongoing training and development programs. You will enjoy a dynamic and collaborative work environment in **Johannesburg**, with the flexibility of a hybrid work arrangement. This position allows you to significantly impact the company's public profile and contribute to high-profile media initiatives.