Senior Public Relations Manager

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private health insurance

Generous annual leave

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Public Relations Manager in Durban to lead strategic PR campaigns and strengthen media relationships. You will craft compelling narratives, guide crisis communications, and collaborate with leadership to ensure consistent messaging across platforms.

The role requires 7+ years in PR or corporate communications, strong storytelling and leadership, and a track record of measurable media results within the media industry. Hybrid work setup in Durban is offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in PR/Communications/Journalism/Marketing or related field.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• 7+ years in public relations, media relations, or corporate communications, preferably in media.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic PR campaigns aligned with business objectives.
• Build and maintain relationships with national and local media outlets and influencers.
• Create press releases, media kits, speeches, and PR materials for diverse audiences.
• Manage crisis communications and opportunities for media coverage.
• Oversee internal/external communications ensuring brand consistency.
• Monitor media trends and provide strategic recommendations.

Skills

Communication skills

Media relations

Storytelling

Crisis management

Leadership

Education

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

Master's degree

Tools

PR software

Media monitoring tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly growing media powerhouse, is seeking a highly strategic and experienced Senior Public Relations Manager to join their team in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This pivotal role will be instrumental in shaping and executing comprehensive PR strategies that enhance brand reputation, drive media engagement, and achieve key business objectives. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the media landscape, a proven track record in developing compelling narratives, and the ability to manage multiple high-profile campaigns simultaneously. You will be at the forefront of our client's communication efforts, working closely with leadership to ensure consistent and impactful messaging across all platforms. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact within a forward-thinking organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative public relations strategies to support company objectives and brand vision.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts, influencers, and stakeholders across various sectors.
• Craft compelling press releases, media kits, speeches, and other PR materials for diverse audiences.
• Proactively identify opportunities for media coverage and brand visibility, managing crisis communications effectively.
• Oversee and manage the production of internal and external communications, ensuring brand consistency.
• Monitor media coverage and industry trends, providing regular reports and strategic recommendations.
• Collaborate with marketing and digital teams to ensure integrated communication campaigns.
• Manage PR budgets and resources efficiently, demonstrating a strong return on investment.
• Mentor junior PR staff and contribute to a collaborative team environment.
• Represent the company at industry events and conferences, acting as a brand ambassador.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in public relations, media relations, or corporate communications, preferably within the media industry.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing strategic PR campaigns that have achieved measurable results.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail and storytelling.
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with national and local media outlets.
• Proficiency in media monitoring tools and PR software.
• Strong understanding of social media platforms and their role in public relations.
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Leadership qualities with experience in team management or mentorship.
• A strategic thinker with a proactive and results-oriented approach.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits program designed to support employee well-being.
• This includes private health insurance, a generous annual leave allowance, performance-based bonuses, and opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Employees also benefit from a vibrant and collaborative work environment, access to cutting-edge industry resources, and the chance to work on impactful campaigns that shape public perception.
• This hybrid role offers flexibility, blending in-office collaboration with remote work, situated in the beautiful coastal city of Durban .