Senior Media Relations Specialist

Placements24; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Leadership role in communications

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Professional development funding

Stable and supportive environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Media Relations Specialist to lead communications from Queenstown in the Eastern Cape. You will design, implement, and manage media relations strategies and cultivate key journalist relationships to shape the company’s public profile.

The role requires 7+ years in media relations or corporate communications, with strong writing and editing skills and a proven track record of securing high-profile placements.

Qualifications

• Master's degree required in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field.
• 7+ years progressive experience in media relations or corporate communications.
• Proven success securing high-profile media placements and managing complex narratives.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience withEastern Cape region media dynamics essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic media relations plans to enhance brand reputation.
• Serve as primary media contact, providing timely information.
• Craft press releases, statements, and talking points for spokespeople.
• Build long-term relationships with national, regional, and trade media.
• Manage crisis communications with swift, expert responses.
• Monitor media landscape and provide strategic recommendations.

Skills

Writing & editing

Interpersonal communication

Leadership

Mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Communications/PR/Journalism

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Senior Media Relations Specialist to lead their communications efforts in Queenstown . This strategic role requires a deep understanding of media dynamics and a proven ability to secure positive coverage and manage the company's public profile. You will be responsible for developing and implementing sophisticated media relations strategies, cultivating key journalist relationships, and acting as a trusted advisor on communication matters. This is a significant opportunity for a seasoned professional to drive impactful PR initiatives within the Eastern Cape , contributing to a culture that values expertise and strategic communication excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic media relations plans to enhance brand reputation and achieve communication objectives.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for media inquiries, providing timely and accurate information.
• Craft compelling press releases, media statements, and talking points for key company spokespeople.
• Build and nurture strong, long-term relationships with national, regional, and trade media outlets.
• Manage crisis communications, providing expert guidance and swift, effective responses.
• Monitor media landscape, analyze coverage, and provide strategic recommendations for improving media impact.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in media relations, public relations, or corporate communications.
• Demonstrated success in securing high-profile media placements and managing complex media narratives.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience working within the Eastern Cape province or a strong understanding of regional media dynamics is essential.
• Proven ability to lead projects and mentor junior team members.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package, reflecting extensive experience.
• Opportunity to take a leadership role in shaping company communications.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Professional development funding and opportunities for growth.
• A stable and supportive work environment in Queenstown .