Senior Media Relations Specialist

Placements24; KwaZulu-Natal; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 960,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Annual leave

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a Senior Media Relations Specialist to lead media strategy and cultivate strong journalist and stakeholder relationships. The role focuses on crafting press materials, securing coverage, and guiding crisis communications within a dynamic, expanding media company.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in media relations, excellent storytelling, and deep knowledge of media monitoring platforms.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in media relations, public relations, or corporate communications, preferably within the media industry.
• Demonstrated success in securing media placements and managing media crises.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for storytelling.
• Strong understanding of media relations principles and practices.
• Proficiency in media monitoring tools and social media platforms.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic media relations plans to achieve corporate communications objectives.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, proactive relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets.
• Craft compelling press releases, media advisories, speeches, and other communication materials.
• Secure positive media coverage and manage crisis communications effectively.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze results, and provide regular reports to senior management.
• Organize press conferences, media briefings, and other media events.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging across all platforms.
• Identify emerging media trends and opportunities for brand enhancement.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly expanding media conglomerate, is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Media Relations Specialist to join their vibrant team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This pivotal role is crucial for developing and executing comprehensive media strategies that enhance brand visibility and public perception. The ideal candidate will possess a keen understanding of the media landscape, exceptional communication skills, and a proven track record of building and maintaining strong relationships with journalists, influencers, and key stakeholders across traditional and digital platforms. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact within a forward-thinking organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic media relations plans to achieve corporate communications objectives.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, proactive relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets.
• Craft compelling press releases, media advisories, speeches, and other communication materials.
• Secure positive media coverage and manage crisis communications effectively.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze results, and provide regular reports to senior management.
• Organize press conferences, media briefings, and other media events.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging across all platforms.
• Identify emerging media trends and opportunities for brand enhancement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in media relations, public relations, or corporate communications, preferably within the media industry.
• Demonstrated success in securing media placements and managing media crises.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for storytelling.
• Strong understanding of media relations principles and practices.
• Proficiency in media monitoring tools and social media platforms.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a base salary of ZAR per annum , commensurate with experience. Employees will benefit from a comprehensive health insurance plan, a generous annual leave allowance, and opportunities for professional development and advancement within the company. Furthermore, the hybrid work model provides flexibility, balancing in-office collaboration with remote work efficiency. Join a supportive and innovative work environment where your contributions are valued and recognized.