Senior PR & Communications Executive

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 650,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, South Africa seeks a Senior PR & Communications Executive to manage the public image, build media relationships, and shape strategic messaging for a financial services client.

The role requires 5+ years in PR/communications, exceptional writing, deep knowledge of SA financial media, and the ability to lead multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in public relations or corporate communications, preferably within the financial services sector.
• Demonstrated success in securing positive media coverage in reputable publications.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with strong editing capabilities.
• In-depth knowledge of the South African media landscape, particularly financial media.
• Experience in crisis communication and reputation management.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with diverse individuals.
• Proficiency in using PR tools and software.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment in East London.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement public relations and communication strategies to enhance brand visibility.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, financial media, and key industry influencers.
• Write and edit press releases, media advisories, speeches, and other communication materials.
• Pitch story ideas to media outlets and respond to media inquiries promptly.
• Monitor media coverage and industry trends, providing regular reports and analysis.
• Assist in the development and execution of crisis communication plans.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and brand alignment.
• Support the organization of media events and press conferences.
• Manage social media content related to PR initiatives.
• Provide strategic advice on communication matters to internal stakeholders.

Skills

Public relations

Media relations

Corporate communications

Press writing

Crisis communication

Editing

Media monitoring

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's degree in PR/Communications

Tools

PR tools software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a fast-growing financial services firm, is seeking a proactive and experienced Senior PR & Communications Executive to join their team in East London . This role is crucial for managing the company's public image, building strong media relationships, and developing effective communication strategies. The ideal candidate will possess excellent writing skills, a deep understanding of the financial industry's media landscape, and a proven track record of securing positive press coverage. You will be responsible for crafting compelling narratives, managing media inquiries, and contributing to the overall communication efforts of the firm. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a dynamic environment and contribute significantly to the company's reputation and growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement public relations and communication strategies to enhance brand visibility.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, financial media, and key industry influencers.
• Write and edit press releases, media advisories, speeches, and other communication materials.
• Pitch story ideas to media outlets and respond to media inquiries promptly.
• Monitor media coverage and industry trends, providing regular reports and analysis.
• Assist in the development and execution of crisis communication plans.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and brand alignment.
• Support the organization of media events and press conferences.
• Manage social media content related to PR initiatives.
• Provide strategic advice on communication matters to internal stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in public relations or corporate communications, preferably within the financial services sector.
• Demonstrated success in securing positive media coverage in reputable publications.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with strong editing capabilities.
• In-depth knowledge of the South African media landscape, particularly financial media.
• Experience in crisis communication and reputation management.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with diverse individuals.
• Proficiency in using PR tools and software.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment in East London .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, and performance-based incentives. A comprehensive medical aid plan is provided, along with retirement fund contributions. Opportunities for professional growth and development are available through training and industry events. The company fosters a collaborative and dynamic work environment that values employee contributions and promotes a healthy work-life balance. This role offers significant exposure to senior management and strategic decision-making within the financial services industry.