Sports Communications Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Health benefits

Performance-based bonuses

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Sports Communications Manager to lead brand messaging across media channels, shaping both external and internal communications. You will develop strategies, manage media relations, write press releases, and oversee social media to ensure consistent storytelling.

We seek 5+ years in sports/entertainment communications with exceptional writing skills and crisis communications experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in communications or public relations, preferably in sports/entertainment.
• Proven experience in media relations, content creation, and social media management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive communication and public relations strategies.
• Manage media relations, including pitching stories and building relationships with journalists.
• Write and edit press releases, speeches, website content, social media posts, and other materials.
• Oversee the organization’s social media presence and brand consistency.
• Develop crisis communication plans and act as a spokesperson when needed.
• Organize press conferences and media events.
• Monitor media coverage and industry trends; report to senior management.
• Ensure communications align with brand identity and strategic goals.
• Manage internal communications to keep staff informed and engaged.
• Collaborate with marketing and event teams for integrated campaigns.

Skills

Media relations

Content creation

Social media management

Crisis communications

Written communication

Verbal communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the Leisure & Sports sector, is seeking a dynamic and skilled Sports Communications Manager to enhance its brand presence and manage its public relations efforts. This role is integral to shaping and disseminating the organization's message across various media channels, ensuring consistent and positive brand representation. You will be responsible for developing communication strategies, managing media relations, and overseeing all aspects of external and internal communications. The ideal candidate possesses a flair for storytelling, exceptional writing skills, and a comprehensive understanding of the media landscape within Limpopo and the broader sports community. This is an exciting opportunity to lead communications for a growing sports organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive communication and public relations strategies.
• Manage media relations, including pitching stories, responding to inquiries, and building relationships with journalists.
• Write and edit press releases, speeches, website content, social media posts, and other communication materials.
• Oversee the organization's social media presence, ensuring brand consistency and engagement.
• Develop crisis communication plans and act as a spokesperson when necessary.
• Organize press conferences and media events.
• Monitor media coverage and industry trends, providing regular reports to senior management.
• Ensure all communications align with the organization's brand identity and strategic goals.
• Manage internal communications to keep staff informed and engaged.
• Collaborate with marketing and event teams to ensure integrated campaign messaging.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in communications or public relations, preferably within the sports or entertainment industry.
• Proven experience in media relations, content creation, and social media management.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong understanding of media landscapes and journalistic practices.
• Ability to develop and execute effective communication strategies.
• Experience in crisis communications is a plus.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Knowledge of the Leisure & Sports landscape in Polokwane and Limpopo is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits package, and opportunities for professional development.
• Employees are eligible for performance-based bonuses and generous paid time off.
• The role offers a hybrid work arrangement, blending remote flexibility with essential in-office collaboration at our Polokwane hub, fostering a dynamic and effective working environment.