Senior Public Relations Manager - Digital Strategy

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Professional development opportunities

Performance-based bonus

Job summary

Placements24 in Midrand, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Public Relations Manager to lead our digital communications strategy. You will shape the brand narrative across all digital channels, work with marketing, social media, and executives to align PR with business goals, and manage crisis communications when needed.

The ideal candidate has 5–7 years of PR experience with a strong emphasis on digital media, storytelling, and online reputation management, in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field.
• 5–7 years of experience in public relations with a digital focus and online reputation management.
• Proven ability to develop and execute digital PR campaigns and crisis communications plans.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement digital PR strategies to enhance brand visibility and reputation.
• Manage online media relations, pitching stories to digital journalists, bloggers, and influencers.
• Create press releases, advisories, blogs, and other digital content for publication.
• Monitor online conversations and media coverage; identify opportunities and respond to crises.
• Analyze campaign performance and provide reports with actionable insights and recommendations.
• Build relationships with media contacts and industry stakeholders in the Midrand area and beyond.
• Collaborate with marketing, social media, and executive teams to align PR with business goals.
• Oversee social media engagement from a PR perspective to maintain brand consistency.

Skills

Digital PR

Media relations

Crisis communications

Storytelling

Social media proficiency

CMS proficiency

PR monitoring tools

Education

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

Tools

Cision

Meltwater

Hootsuite

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Senior Public Relations Manager to lead our digital communications strategy. This pivotal role is based in the bustling corporate hub of Midrand, Gauteng. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of modern PR principles, coupled with a proven track record in crafting and executing impactful online campaigns. You will be instrumental in shaping our client's brand narrative across all digital channels, ensuring consistent messaging and fostering positive stakeholder engagement. This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking organization and make a significant contribution to its public image and market presence in a key South African economic center. You will work closely with marketing, social media, and executive teams to align PR efforts with overarching business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive digital public relations strategies to enhance brand visibility and reputation.
• Manage and execute online media relations, including identifying and pitching relevant stories to digital journalists, bloggers, and influencers.
• Craft compelling press releases, media advisories, blog posts, and other digital content for publication.
• Monitor online conversations and media coverage, identifying opportunities and potential crises, and responding proactively.
• Analyze campaign performance, providing regular reports with actionable insights and recommendations for optimization.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts and industry stakeholders in the Midrand area and beyond.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure integrated communication efforts across all platforms.
• Oversee social media engagement strategies from a PR perspective, ensuring brand consistency and positive sentiment.
• Manage crisis communication efforts in the digital space, protecting the client's reputation under pressure.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in public relations, with a strong emphasis on digital media and online reputation management.
• Proven ability to develop and execute successful digital PR campaigns.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for storytelling and persuasive writing.
• Proficiency in social media platforms, content management systems, and PR monitoring tools.
• Demonstrated experience in media relations, including building and nurturing journalist relationships.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and generate strategic recommendations.
• Experience in crisis communications is highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment in Gauteng.
• A strategic thinker with a proactive and collaborative approach.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for professional development. Employees enjoy a supportive work environment and the chance to work on impactful projects within the Media & PR sector. We foster a culture of innovation and provide the resources necessary for our team members to excel. This role provides significant autonomy and the opportunity to shape digital communication strategies for a prominent organization. Additionally, a performance-based bonus structure is in place. Join our client and be part of a team that values creativity and strategic excellence in Midrand, ZA.