Strategic Media Relations Lead

PPC Recruitment; Gauteng; On-site; Full time

Job description

Our client, a respected and impactful association, is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and media-savvy Communications and Media Liaison to lead the organisation’s media relations, public image, and reputation management efforts.

This high-impact role is ideal for a seasoned communications professional who thrives in fast-paced, high-stakes environments and has a deep understanding of the South African media landscape. As the public voice of the organisation, you will work closely with the CEO, Head of Marketing & Communications, and Executive Leadership Team to craft compelling narratives, build positive media relationships, and drive thought leadership initiatives.

You will be instrumental in shaping public perception, promoting the Association’s mission, and managing communications across traditional and digital platforms.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in public relations, Journalism, Communications, Media Studies, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in public relations, media liaison, or corporate communications in a reputable organisation.
• Proven experience as a public spokesperson or media representative.
• Established network of media contacts across print, radio, digital, and broadcast in South Africa.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
• Strong experience with reputation management, crisis response, and stakeholder communications.
• Demonstrated ability to manage high-pressure situations with professionalism and diplomacy.
• Familiarity with digital media monitoring tools, content management systems, and media tracking software is advantageous.
• Extreme Importance
• Delivering Results and Meeting Customer Expectations
• Planning and Organising
• Confident and articulate communicator with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Politically astute, with strong judgment and discretion.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate complex issues into clear messages.
• Collaborative, proactive, and adaptable.
• High attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.
• Deciding and Initiating Action
• Adapting and Responding to Change
• Presenting and Communicating Information
• Entrepreneurial and Commercial Thinking
• Writing and Reporting
• Coping with Pressures and Setbacks
• Applying Expertise and Technology
• High Importance
• Creating and Innovating
• Persuading and Influencing
• Analysing
• Working with People
• Learning and Researching
• Moderate Importance
• Achieving Personal Work Goals and Objectives
• Relating and Networking
• Formulating Strategies and Concepts
• Baseline Importance
• Adhering to Principles and Values
• Following Instructions and Procedures

KPIs

• Media Relations & Publicity
• Serve as the primary liaison for all media enquiries, ensuring accurate and timely responses.
• Develop and disseminate high-quality press releases, media statements, speeches, and editorial content.
• Build and nurture strong relationships with journalists, editors, broadcasters, influencers, and content creators.
• Secure earned media coverage in top-tier publications, news outlets, and digital channels.
• Manage media logistics including interview coordination, press briefings, and event coverage.
• Maintain an up-to-date media contact database and monitor industry trends and media mentions.
• Spokesperson & Brand Representation
• Act as an official spokesperson for the COMPANY on key topics including road safety, mobility, motoring, and consumer advocacy.
• Represent the COMPANY at industry forums, panel discussions, conferences, and media events.
• Deliver consistent, clear, and credible messaging that reflects the COMPANY’s values and strategic priorities.
• Coach and prepare executives for media interviews, public appearances, and speaking engagements.
• Reputation Management & Crisis Communications
• Identify emerging issues and reputational risks and develop proactive communication responses.
• Lead the development and execution of crisis communication plans in coordination with executive leadership and legal advisors.
• Monitor news cycles, social media, and public sentiment to assess risks and opportunities.
• Correct misinformation and manage sensitive issues with discretion and authority.
• Strategic Communications Planning
• Align PR and media initiatives with the broader marketing and corporate strategy.
• Collaborate with internal teams (legal, HR, membership services, advocacy, etc.) to ensure message consistency.
• Work closely with the Digital & Social Media teams to integrate media messaging into online content strategies.
• Develop and manage an annual PR and media calendar aligned with strategic campaigns and business priorities.
• Content Development & Messaging
• Draft speeches, op-eds, scripts, talking points, presentations, and briefing documents for senior executives.
• Contribute content for external platforms including COMPANY’s membership magazine, and partner communications.
• Ensure all content is aligned with brand tone, messaging guidelines, and organisational values.