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Purpose Statement
To develop and support the implementation of media relations operational plan aimed at enhancing effective relations with the media as well as support the broader reputation enhancement of the SABS.

About SABS
The South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) is mandated to develop, promote and maintain South African National Standards (SANS), promote quality in connection with commodities, products and services, and render conformity assessment services and assist in matters connected therewith. Working for the SABS opens the mind to the world around you. We offer diverse career paths in dynamic environment that nurtures and recognises talent and potential. Become part of our vision of being a trusted standardisation and business assurance solution provider and join a team that fosters accountability, excellence and innovation in an inclusive workplace.

SABS is an equal opportunities employer, and our recruitment will be done in line with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and our EE Policy. Please note that applications received after the closing date will not be considered.

To develop and support the implementation of media relations operational plan aimed at enhancing effective relations with the media as well as support the broader reputation enhancement of the SABS.

The South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) is mandated to develop, promote and maintain South African National Standards (SANS), promote quality in connection with commodities, products and services, and render conformity assessment services and assist in matters connected therewith. Working for the SABS opens the mind to the world around you. We offer diverse career paths in dynamic environment that nurtures and recognises talent and potential. Become part of our vision of being a trusted standardisation and business assurance solution provider and join a team that fosters accountability, excellence and innovation in an inclusive workplace.

SABS is an equal opportunities employer, and our recruitment will be done in line with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and our EE Policy. Please note that applications received after the closing date will not be considered.

• Diploma + Advanced Diploma / B-Degree in Public Relations, Journalism or Communication or a related field. (NQF Level 7)

• 8 years relevant work experience in media relations (Operational Level)
• 4 years specialist experience (Operational Level)
• Proven track record in developing media relations strategies and annual media plans at corporate level (Operational Level)
• Proven track record in writing and disseminating media releases. (Operational Level)

• Contribute to the development of and implement a media relations operational plan in collaboration with the Head.
• Develop and implement an annual media plan with quarterly deliverables in collaboration with the Head.
• Provide subject matter expertise to the organisation regarding media relations protocols and processes.
• Communicate overall media trends and results to the various business unit managers in consultation with the Head.
• Act as media liaison for the SABS, when required.
• Review media policies and procedures in consultation with the Head, as and when required.
• Identify opportunities to improve media exposure.
• Resolve media relations queries professionally within scope of control and timeously according to approved standard operating procedures, in consultation with the Head.
• Develop and maintain appropriate relationships with the media.
• Responsible for the dissemination of media releases in consultation with the Head, and management of a media list.
• Ensure the effective media monitoring of SABS operations.
• Release disseminated press releases to the SABS Marketing & Communications business unit for inclusion on relevant channels (e.g., website, social media, internal email, etc.) in consultation with the Head.
• Implement all media initiatives according to the approved standard operating procedures to minimize all brand risk and build the SABS corporate identity in the market.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders on media initiatives when required.
• Provide input and compile reports and presentations as requested
• Research and update the head regarding the latest media best practice

• Assist in identifying and adhering to fraud controls, risk prevention principles, sound governance and compliance processes, and tools to identify and manage risks.
• Monitor changes in the regulatory environment and ensure that appropriate operational controls are implemented to address new requirements.
• Support and provide evidence to all internal and external audit and regulatory requirements.
• Adhere to all relevant laws, policies and Standard Operating Procedures throughout the organisation.

• Identify and mitigate internal systems and procedural barriers to enhance excellent customer service.
• Build and maintain effective internal and external stakeholder relationships for the purpose of expectations management, knowledge sharing and integration, and to manage the organisation's reputation.
• Represent and participate in the organisation's committees and tasks teams when required.
• Convene and attend meetings and present findings and business cases to relevant stakeholders when required.
• Actively liaise and build relationships with SABS clients and service providers to ensure that the service standards are met appropriately.
• Effectively manage customer complaints through timeous resolution and/or escalation as required.
• Analyze queries and develop mechanisms to proactively resolve common issues and share lessons learned.

Purpose Statement

To develop and support the implementation of media relations operational plan aimed at enhancing effective relations with the media as well as support the broader reputation enhancement of the SABS.

About SABS

The South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) is mandated to develop, promote and maintain South African National Standards (SANS), promote quality in connection with commodities, products and services, and render conformity assessment services and assist in matters connected therewith. Working for the SABS opens the mind to the world around you. We offer diverse career paths in dynamic environment that nurtures and recognises talent and potential. Become part of our vision of being a trusted standardisation and business assurance solution provider and join a team that fosters accountability, excellence and innovation in an inclusive workplace.

SABS is an equal opportunities employer, and our recruitment will be done in line with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and our EE Policy. Please note that applications received after the closing date will not be considered.

Qualifications

• Matric
• Diploma + Advanced Diploma / B-Degree in Public Relations, Journalism or Communication or a related field
• NQF Level 7

Experience

• 8 years relevant work experience in media relations
• 4 years specialist experience
• Proven track record in developing media relations strategies and annual media plans at corporate level
• Proven track record in writing and disseminating media releases

Functional Management

• Functional Management
• Contribute to the development of and implement a media relations operational plan in collaboration with the Head.
• Develop and implement an annual media plan with quarterly deliverables in collaboration with the Head.
• Provide subject matter expertise to the organisation regarding media relations protocols and processes.
• Communicate overall media trends and results to the various business unit managers in consultation with the Head.
• Act as media liaison for the SABS, when required.
• Review media policies and procedures in consultation with the Head, as and when required.
• Identify opportunities to improve media exposure.
• Resolve media relations queries professionally within scope of control and timeously according to approved standard operating procedures, in consultation with the Head.
• Develop and maintain appropriate relationships with the media.
• Responsible for the dissemination of media releases in consultation with the Head, and management of a media list.
• Ensure the effective media monitoring of SABS operations.
• Release disseminated press releases to the SABS Marketing & Communications business unit for inclusion on relevant channels (e.g., website, social media, internal email, etc.) in consultation with the Head.
• Implement all media initiatives according to the approved standard operating procedures to minimize all brand risk and build the SABS corporate identity in the market.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders on media initiatives when required.
• Provide input and compile reports and presentations as requested
• Research and update the head regarding the latest media best practice

Risk and Compliance Management

• Assist in identifying and adhering to fraud controls, risk prevention principles, sound governance and compliance processes, and tools to identify and manage risks.
• Monitor changes in the regulatory environment and ensure that appropriate operational controls are implemented to address new requirements.
• Support and provide evidence to all internal and external audit and regulatory requirements.
• Adhere to all relevant laws, policies and Standard Operating Procedures throughout the organisation.

Stakeholder Management

• Identify and mitigate internal systems and procedural barriers to enhance excellent customer service.
• Build and maintain effective internal and external stakeholder relationships for the purpose of expectations management, knowledge sharing and integration, and to manage the organisation's reputation.
• Represent and participate in the organisation's committees and tasks teams when required.
• Convene and attend meetings and present findings and business cases to relevant stakeholders when required.
• Actively liaise and build relationships with SABS clients and service providers to ensure that the service standards are met appropriately.
• Effectively manage customer complaints through timeous resolution and/or escalation as required.
• Analyze queries and develop mechanisms to proactively resolve common issues and share lessons learned.

Job Description
Key Performance Output
Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be reporting to the Senior Manager Corporate Communications, and will be responsible but not limited to the following:

• Research applicable stakeholders to identify opportunities for engagement.
• Oversee the stakeholder engagement processes and plans and ensure execution thereof.
• Monitor and measure action plans for continuous improvement. Oversee external communication platforms.
• Develop and implement media plan and strategy.
• Manage the researching, writing and collating of articles, media releases etc., for the organisation and conducting final quality assurance of all content.
• Plan and oversee media events.
• Second line spokesperson in absence of Brand Marketing & Communications Lead, receiving and responding to media requests.
• Build and nurture partnerships with various stakeholders, media and industry bodies
• Provide input into operational budget, monitor and conduct forecasting.
• Track, manage and maintain Airports Company South Africa publicity.
• Proactively identify media engagement and publicity opportunities.
• Support and collaborate in various projects.
• Develop project -specific plans when required and support implementation.
• Adhere to and ensure adherence to statutory regulations, organisational standards, policies and procedures.
• Manage media monitoring and analysis of the media coverage for the organisation.
• Compile and submit relevant reports.
• Supervise and monitor service provider according to contract requirements.

Technical Skills And Experience
The following skills and experience will be required:

• Bachelor's Degree (3 years - 360 credits) NQF level 7 in Marketing / Communications / Public Relations/Journalism is essential.
• 4-6 years operational experience in Marketing / Communications / Public Relations is essential.
• MS Office proficiency on an intermediate level.
• Code B; Motor vehicle licence

Competencies

• Report Writing
• Communication
• Analytical Thinking
• Planning and Organising
• Customer Service Orientation
• Problem Solving
• Networking & Relationship Building
• Knowledge of Applicable Legislation
• Financial Management
• Product and Brand Knowledge
• Project Management
• Presentation
• Conflict Management

Shortlisted candidates will be required to provide proof of their qualifications, NQF level and credits, and must be eligible for Top Security Clearance within 3 months of appointment.
Positions will be filled in line with Airports Company South Africa values and Employment Equity Policy and Plan.
Should you not hear from us within 30 days of your application, consider your application unsuccessful.

Company Description

DNA Brand Architects is a brand communications agency located in the Fourways area, Johannesburg . With 13 years of experience, we have thrived as an independent agency, creating success stories with our dedicated team and esteemed clients. We are known for making wow stuff happen for brands with an unstoppable hunger for greatness.

We are looking for an experienced Publicist / Media Relations Specialist

We're on the lookout for a seasoned professional with a sharp eye for culture, corporate and consumer-ready stories. Someone who can turn financial services content into impactful media coverage.

Key skills we're looking for:

• Media Relations Expertise: Strong media contacts and proven ability to secure consistent, high-quality coverage to boost our client's visibility.
• Project & Communications Management: The ability to manage multiple communication streams, align messaging, and prioritize effectively to ensure our client's news cycle remains powerful and uncluttered.

If you're ready to take on the challenge of shaping not just a brand's communications, but also how it's perceived across both corporate and consumer spaces, we'd love to hear from you.

Skills/Qualifications

• Extensive experience in managing diverse client portfolios
• Strong ability to handle various client personalities and demands
• Excellent workload management and prioritisation skills
• Strong project management skills
• Strong media relations
• Bachelor's or related qualification
• PR Agency Experience essential

If you do not hear from us within two weeks we thank you for your application, however please assume that your application has not been successful.

Empowering Africa's tomorrow, together…one story at a time.

With over 100 years of rich history and strongly positioned as a local bank with regional and international expertise, a career with our family offers the opportunity to be part of this exciting growth journey, to reset our future and shape our destiny as a proudly African group.

Job Summary

The Head: Media Relations and Issues Management is a senior leadership role, that reports into the Managing Executive Group Communications, and is responsible for setting, enabling and driving the organisation's media engagement strategy and managing reputational risk through proactive and reactive communications. This role is pivotal in positioning the organisation positively in the public domain, building trusted media relationships, and leading strategic responses to complex issues and crises. The role drives functional strategy integration and sets standards for media relations.

Job Description

Key Accountabilities:

Accountability: Develop and Implement the Media Relations and Issues Management Strategy

• Develop and execute communications strategies that support the Absa Group strategy; the CEO Office; the AGL Exco and Board – this includes both tactical communications in line with business operations and reputation management issues, as well as proactive communications to effectively position these stakeholders in line with the corporate ambition and in partnership with Group Public Relations.
• Provide strategic, issue and crisis communication advice (reputation management) - including formal and informal scanning (communication, customer and environmental insights) and issues identification, monitoring, and redress.

Accountability: Thought leadership creation and positioning for key stakeholders

• Working closely with Group Public Relations and Corporate Communications to develop communications initiatives that will effectively position Absa Group, the CEO and the Group leadership in the market, in line with the respective focus areas as outlined in the Group strategy.
• Represent the Group on relevant industry bodies, to influence and shape the landscape of communications practice on the African continent.

Accountability: Sharing of insights and best practice/ educating internal stakeholders on strategic media relations

• Maintain an up-to-date understanding of competitor media relations/PR/thought leadership activity – to ensure Group Communications and Corporate Affairs leadership are kept abreast of market activity and opportunities to enhance the Group's voice and distinctiveness in the market.
• Provide thought leadership to the Corporate Affairs teams, as well as communications practitioners across the Group – to ensure the community is equipped to effectively deliver world class communications activity (innovation, new methods, new channels etc.)

Accountability: Creation and Oversight of the Media Governance Framework

• Design and implementation of Absa's media relations policy, standards, strategy, framework and governance oversight.
• Develop and embed a differentiated, robust and consistent group-wide media relations expertise that utilises best-in-class approaches and embeds Absa's desired media relations framework and approach.
• Design and implement robust media data analysis and insights generation to facilitate data-driven proactive and reactive media responses using strategic intelligence
• Provide Media Relations subject matter expertise and advisory to business and key stakeholders in support of the Group Communications strategy

Accountability: Control measures

• Understand the control measures applicable to the role through reading the Code of Conduct and other training allocated. Where responsible for risks and controls ensure that these are appropriate and fit for purpose.
• All mandatory training completed to deadline and understood within given timescales.
• Where applicable, all key risks identified, tracked, logged and managed as per the Risk Framework procedures.
• Where applicable, all key controls to have identified owners, with audit trail of regular review and maintenance together with supporting records.
• Where applicable, all risk events (incidents) or control failures to be escalated, investigated, reported and fixed at root cause to prevent reoccurrence.

Accountability: People Management

• Develop and sustain a high performing team in line with Absa's desired culture, people management practices, standards and target colleague experience, including effective coaching, development, performance management and engagement.
• Establish and maintain a succession plan for key roles in your team in line with Absa's talent management practices.

Competencies:

• Strategic agility and sound judgment under pressure.
• Business Acumen
• Customer focus
• Results orientation
• Problem solving and issues management
• Strong interpersonal and influencing skills.
• High emotional intelligence and resilience.
• Ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments.
• Media-savvy with a proactive and solutions-oriented mindset.
• Commercial acumen
• Innovation
• Inspirational people leadership
• Collaboration and Influencing

Minimum Requirements:

• B Degree in related field NQF 8
• 10+ years of strong communications experience
• 8 years in a multinational corporate communications environment
• Solid existing journalist/media relations experience and relationships
• 5years leading and managing diverse and remote teams
• Strong crisis/issues management experience
• Working in complex matrix environments
• Pan African experience
• Flexibility in working after hours and/or over weekends

Education

Bachelor`s Degrees and Advanced Diplomas: Communication Studies and Language (Required)

Absa Bank Limited is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. In compliance with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups whose appointments will contribute towards achievement of equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile and add to the diversity of the Bank.

Absa Bank Limited reserves the right not to make an appointment to the post as advertised

Location

City of Ekurhuleni

Remuneration

R 1,461,024 to R 1,805,488 - Total cost to company

Assignment Type

Fixed Term Contract

Workplace: EGSC Building, Cnr. Cross & Roses Streets, Germiston

Key performance areas:

• Input and advise on strategic capability and leadership to develop, integrate and drive the communications and media strategy, ensuring effective delivery of compliance and governance
• Ensure operational processes to ensure effective communication functions and logistical management and utilization of technology to benefit the community of the CoE
• Ensure governance and risk management compliance to ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, policies, processes and resolutions and minimize risk for the communications and media division
• Ensure effective financial management and processes to ensure the effective allocation and utilization of funds
• Drive customer service orientation to ensure excellent customer service delivery to all stakeholders
• Implement and manage effective people management to provide a meaningful context, setting performance standards in order to enhance productivity, capacity and high staff moral
• Ensure accurate and timely flow of communication through effective utilisation of press and publicity systems, communication systems and processes
• Deliver and guide innovative, integrated media campaigns through ensuring effective prioritisation and flow across the organisation
• Develop media implementation programmes and plans, ensuring effective roll out and implementation
• Develop, integrate and monitor communication and media quality print publications and manage corporate identity
• Develop and maintain collaborative working relationships within the press and publicity communities and ensuring proactive management of the CoE reputation
• Plan, direct and manage implementation of customer education strategies and programmes

Core Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Communication or equivalent NQF Level 7 qualification
• 8 years' experience in a similar environment of which at least 4 years must have been at senior management level
• A valid driver's license
• Operation planning and reporting skills
• Quality orientation
• People management and empowerment skills
• Effective communication skills with the ability to build trusting relationships
• Analytical thinking

Enquiries: Tel: Natasja Havenga

Note: The successful candidate who does not have the NQF Level 5 Finance Management qualification will be required to obtain it within 18 months, in terms of the National Treasury Requirement.

Appointments will be made on a 5 (five) year fixed term and will be subject to the signing of an employment contract, performance agreement and disclosure of financial interest. Candidates will be subjected to relevant competency assessment as well as security clearance / vetting processes.

Applications will not be considered if the necessary copies of the required qualifications, identity documents, driver's license (if applicable) and current professional registration (if applicable), are not attached to the application / CV. Candidates may be requested to submit proof of the NQF level applicable to the qualifications they have obtained.

Should candidates not be informed of the outcome of the application within six weeks of the closing date, it should be regarded as having been unsuccessful. The City of Ekurhuleni subscribes to the principles of the Employment Equity Act and reserves the right to appoint, not appoint or to appoint laterally.

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Rhodes University

Makhanda, Eastern Cape

Permanent

Posted 09 September Closing Date 22 September 2025

Division

2501 - Communications and Advancement

Business Unit

2501_01 - Communications and Advancement Directorate

Minimum experience

Not Applicable

Company primary industry

Higher Education

Job functional area

Other

Director: Communications, Brand and Partnerships (Grade 19)

Communications, Brand and Partnerships

We are looking for a forward-thinking and innovative leader capable of fostering strong stakeholder engagement, enhancing institutional visibility, and building enduring relationships that support the University's long-term sustainability and impact.

This position provides strategic leadership in elevating and safeguarding the reputation and public image of the University through the development, coordination, and effective execution of integrated communication, brand/marketing, alumni relations, and partnership strategies.

The incumbent will contribute meaningfully to advancing the University's vision, mission, and overarching institutional goals.

The Requirements

A relevant B. Degree (NQF level 7, a postgraduate qualification would be an advantage) plus approximately 7 years' relevant experience, which includes: -

• Previous experience in leading high-performance communications, brand and fundraising teams at a senior level, ideally in an agency.
• Demonstrable success in the development of communication, brand, storytelling and fundraising strategies for both internal and external communities.
• Demonstrable success in fundraising or in any position where the achievement of revenue targets and the sustainable development of commercial relationships is seen as core to the success of the position.
• Demonstrable success in running projects aimed at achieving support for philanthropic programmes.
• Experience in sophisticated communications environments where exposure to global best practice across all forms of media has been achieved.
• Evidence of the ability to influence and confidently advise diverse stakeholder groups.

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following: -
• Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
• Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.

Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application can be addressed to Ms Ntosh Gongqa at or The shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Remuneration per annum (Grade 19):

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R1, 557, 697.00

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed-term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date: 22 September 2025

This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.

If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.

Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.

Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.

These values are:

Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.