Senior Public Relations Specialist

Placements24; KwaZulu-Natal; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Networking opportunities

Company events

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg is seeking a Senior Public Relations Specialist to lead PR strategies for brands and ventures. You will build relationships with media, craft compelling narratives, and guide communications across channels.

The role requires 5+ years in PR, strong crisis handling, and proficiency in digital PR and social media. A hybrid work model is offered in KwaZulu-Natal, with opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years in public relations or media relations, preferably in the media sector.
• Proven ability to develop and execute PR campaigns.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with strong storytelling.
• Strong media landscape understanding and crisis experience.
• Proficiency in social media and digital PR strategies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic PR plans to meet objectives.
• Craft press releases, media advisories, and communications materials.
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists, bloggers and influencers.
• Manage media inquiries and crisis communications.
• Organise press conferences and media events; monitor coverage.

Skills

PR experience

Media relations

Storytelling

Crisis communication

Social media

Education

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

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly growing media organisation, is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Public Relations Specialist to join their team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape and elevate the public image of exciting new ventures and established brands. You will be instrumental in developing and executing comprehensive PR strategies that enhance brand visibility, manage reputations, and foster strong relationships with media, stakeholders, and the public. The ideal candidate possesses a keen understanding of media trends, exceptional communication skills, and a proven track record in crafting compelling narratives. This is a challenging yet rewarding position within a supportive and innovative work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic public relations plans to meet organisational objectives.
• Craft press releases, media advisories, and other communication materials.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, bloggers, and key influencers.
• Manage media inquiries and respond to crisis communications effectively.
• Organise and manage press conferences, media events, and product launches.
• Monitor media coverage and provide regular reports on PR campaign effectiveness.
• Advise senior management on communication strategies and potential reputational risks.
• Collaborate with marketing and internal communications teams to ensure consistent messaging.
• Identify new opportunities for media engagement and brand exposure.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and best practices in public relations and media relations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a public relations or media relations role, preferably within the media industry.
• Proven ability to develop and execute successful PR campaigns.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for storytelling.
• Strong understanding of media landscape and relationships with key media contacts.
• Experience in crisis communication management is essential.
• Proficiency in social media platforms and digital PR strategies.
• Excellent organisational and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret media metrics.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R .
• Opportunity to work with a leading organisation in the media sector.
• A dynamic and creative work environment located in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Hybrid work model offering a blend of office and remote flexibility.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Contribution to impactful communication strategies.
• Supportive team and management.
• Access to company events and networking opportunities.