Senior Public Relations Executive

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and wellness benefits

Performance-based bonuses

Hybrid work model

Leave policy

Professional development opportunities

Industry conferences and training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Public Relations Executive for a Pietermaritzburg-based role. You will develop and execute high-impact PR campaigns, manage corporate communications, and foster strong media relationships across KwaZulu-Natal.

The position requires 7+ years in PR, exceptional storytelling, leadership, and a proven track record in crisis management. A hybrid work model is offered, with opportunities to shape the company’s public profile and growth in the region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in public relations, corporate communications, or media relations.
• Proven success in developing and executing comprehensive PR strategies that yield measurable results.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with superior storytelling and presentation abilities.
• Strong media network and demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with journalists and influencers.
• Experience in crisis communication management and reputation protection.
• Proficiency in media monitoring tools and PR software.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and organizational skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Knowledge of the Pietermaritzburg and KwaZulu-Natal business and media landscape is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic public relations plans to achieve organizational objectives and enhance brand reputation.
• Oversee the creation and dissemination of press releases, media kits, and other PR collateral.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, proactive relationships with national and local media contacts.
• Manage media inquiries, coordinate interviews, and act as a spokesperson or liaison when necessary.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze trends, and provide strategic recommendations to senior management.
• Develop and implement crisis communication strategies to effectively manage sensitive issues.
• Plan and execute press conferences, media events, and product launches.
• Collaborate with marketing, digital, and internal communications teams to ensure cohesive messaging.
• Measure and report on the effectiveness of PR campaigns, demonstrating impact and ROI.
• Mentor junior PR staff and provide guidance on best practices.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Media relations

Crisis communications

Storytelling

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Public Relations / Communications / Journalism / Marketing

Tools

Media monitoring tools

PR software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading name in the Media & PR industry, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Public Relations Executive to join their team in Pietermaritzburg . This strategic role involves developing and executing high-impact PR campaigns, managing corporate communications, and fostering strong media relationships. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of media landscapes, excellent communication skills, and a proven track record of success in shaping public perception. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead significant PR initiatives within the KwaZulu-Natal region and contribute to the company's growth and reputation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic public relations plans to achieve organizational objectives and enhance brand reputation.
• Oversee the creation and dissemination of press releases, media kits, and other PR collateral.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, proactive relationships with national and local media contacts.
• Manage media inquiries, coordinate interviews, and act as a spokesperson or liaison when necessary.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze trends, and provide strategic recommendations to senior management.
• Develop and implement crisis communication strategies to effectively manage sensitive issues.
• Plan and execute press conferences, media events, and product launches.
• Collaborate with marketing, digital, and internal communications teams to ensure cohesive messaging.
• Measure and report on the effectiveness of PR campaigns, demonstrating impact and ROI.
• Mentor junior PR staff and provide guidance on best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in public relations, corporate communications, or media relations.
• Proven success in developing and executing comprehensive PR strategies that yield measurable results.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with superior storytelling and presentation abilities.
• Strong media network and demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with journalists and influencers.
• Experience in crisis communication management and reputation protection.
• Proficiency in media monitoring tools and PR software.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and organizational skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Knowledge of the Pietermaritzburg and KwaZulu-Natal business and media landscape is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive executive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, performance-based bonuses, and a generous leave policy.
• This role provides significant opportunities for professional development, including access to industry conferences and specialized training programs.
• Based in Pietermaritzburg , the position offers a stimulating work environment with a hybrid work model that balances in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Join a leading Media & PR firm and make a substantial impact on its public profile and overall success within the KwaZulu-Natal province.