29 Public Relations Officer jobs in Gauteng

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SUMMARY:

A prestigious multinational company is seeking a hands-on, commercially minded, and versatile generalist to step into the role of Executive Head of Legal, Compliance, and Public Affairs. This role requires a leader who can take charge of key legal, compliance, and public affairs functions, ensuring strategic alignment and risk management across the organisation.

Recruiter:

PlaceTalent

Job Ref:

JHB /CB

Date posted:

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Location:

Johannesburg, South Africa

SUMMARY:

A prestigious multinational company is seeking a hands-on, commercially minded, and versatile generalist to step into the role of Executive Head of Legal, Compliance, and Public Affairs. This role requires a leader who can take charge of key legal, compliance, and public affairs functions, ensuring strategic alignment and risk management across the organisation.

POSITION INFO:

Education:

• Relevant legal qualification (e.g., Bachelor of Laws)
• Completion of articles and board examinations
• Admitted as an attorney or advocate
• Ongoing legal training and updates from law firms and corporate lawyers’ associations
  
  

• 10+ years of relevant experience as a practicing legal counsel.
• At least 5 years in a senior role, leading a team of legal counsels.
• Understanding of the South African property sector and its legislation
• Awareness of commercial impacts on business operations
  
  

• Legal Leadership: Oversee company’s legal function, ensuring risk mitigation and alignment with business strategy.
• Contract Management: Negotiate, draft, review, and enforce contracts; manage the contract repository and approval processes.
• Dispute Resolution: Develop strategies to prevent and resolve legal disputes efficiently, guiding business units on solutions.
• Compliance & Governance: Ensure adherence to South African and international regulations (e.g., FCPA, OFAC), manage statutory requirements, and provide company secretarial support.
• Risk & Reporting: Oversee compliance reporting, governance, and REIT obligations while staying updated on legislative changes.
• HSEQ & Facilities: Manage health, safety, environmental, and quality (HSEQ) functions, including office management and regulatory compliance.
• Mergers & Acquisitions Support: Assist the Regional M&A team with due diligence and legal implementation of acquisitions.
• Stakeholder Management & Public Affairs: Manage external stakeholders, influence policies, communicate sustainability objectives, and implement public affairs strategies. Handle media relations and mitigate reputational risks.
• Financial Management: Manage the legal budget, oversee debt collection, and enforce contractual obligations.
• People Management: Inspire and lead the team, oversee recruitment and development, ensure performance management, promote a culture of learning, and drive staff engagement. Foster diversity, equity, and inclusion, and ensure fair recognition and reward.
  
  

• Seniority level Executive

• Employment type Full-time

• Job function Legal
• Industries Advertising Services

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Overview

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

• 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 – including tactical communications in line with business operations and reputation management issues, as well as proactive communications to 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 scanning (communication, customer and environmental insights) and issues identification, monitoring, and redress.
• Accountability: Thought leadership creation and positioning for key stakeholders. Work with Group Public Relations and Corporate Communications to position Absa Group, the CEO and the Group leadership in the market, in line with the Group strategy. Represent the Group on relevant industry bodies to influence the landscape of communications practice on the African continent.
• Accountability: Sharing of insights and best practice; educate internal stakeholders on strategic media relations. Maintain up-to-date understanding of competitor media relations activity to keep leadership informed of market activity and opportunities. Provide thought leadership to Corporate Affairs teams and communications practitioners across the Group.
• 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 group-wide media relations capability and data-driven insights for proactive and reactive media responses. Provide Media Relations subject matter expertise and advisory to business and key stakeholders.
• Accountability: Control measures. Understand and apply risk controls, complete mandatory training on time, manage risks and controls, escalate and address incidents to prevent recurrence.
• Accountability: People Management. Develop and sustain a high-performing team, establish a succession plan, and manage coaching, development, performance and engagement.

• 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
• 5 years leading and managing diverse and remote teams
• Strong crisis/issues management experience
• Experience working in complex matrix environments
• Pan African experience
• Flexibility in working after hours and/or weekends

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 and add to the diversity of the Bank. Absa Bank Limited reserves the right not to make an appointment to the post as advertised.

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.

Key Accountabilities:

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.)

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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

• 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

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

POSITION PURPOSE

The Public Relations Manager provides the Regional Marketing Manager with any support required in terms of communication with suppliers, tenants, clients and public.

1. Assumes responsibility for the following tasks regarding marketing
2. Develop and execute innovative PR strategies aligned with shopping Centre’s objectives
3. Assist with Tenant Liaison, customer Liaison and Public Relations.
4. Write and distribute high-impact press releases, speeches, articles, and executive communications.
5. Monitoring local publications, social media, Tenant advertising and community opportunities
6. Drafting the monthly and ad hoc marketing reports and tenant communications.
7. Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key media outlets, journalists, and influencers.
8. Schedule and organise tenant meetings and marketing meetings.
9. General support to the Regional Marketing Manager
10. General support to Centre Management as required (adhoc reception duties when short staffed)
11. Proactively identify opportunities for positive media exposure and thought leadership.
12. Manage all media inquiries, interviews, press conferences, and public appearances.
13. Lead crisis communication strategies and protect the brand's reputation during critical moments.
14. Collaborate closely with marketing, digital, and leadership teams to ensure brand consistency across all communication channels.
15. Produce engaging content for newsletters, blogs, social media, and internal communications.
16. Monitor and analyze media coverage, providing actionable insights and regular performance reports.
17. Organize and support high-profile events, promotional initiatives, and industry functions.
18. Oversee and update website content; ensure SEO and branding consistency
19. Manage and grow social media accounts aligned with business goals
20. Monitor online reputation and ensure accurate listings across platforms
21. Ensure brand consistency across all group companies and communications
22. Support brand guideline updates and cross-brand alignment
23. Tenant Communication
24. Turnover collection
25. Site inspection
26. Social media content
27. Create marketing and social media campaigns and strategies, including budget planning, content ideation and implementation schedules.
28. Create integrated and cost-effective social media strategies.

1. Typing is accurate, neat, and promptly completed.
2. Telephone calls and visitors are courteously received. Client and management inquiries are attended. Good Business relations exist with Clients. A professional image is projected and maintained.
3. Documents and reports are accurately produced and up-to-date. Files are well-maintained.
4. Good communication and coordination exist with area personnel and with management. Assistance is provided as needed. Management is appropriately informed.
5. Assistance to all Marketing requirements for the Shopping Centre’s and the Regional Marketing Manager.

Matric.
A marketing or PR diploma or certificate preferred.
Secretarial certificate

Understanding of marketing, advertising, public relations, media.
Understanding of sales and promotion techniques .
Knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications.

Minimum two years experience in a marketing environment,

Proficient communication and typing skills.
Able to perform dictation and transcription tasks.
Good interpersonal and public relations skills.
Analytical, creative, and problem-solving abilities.
Able to use graphic art tools and supplies.

Overview

Company Description: Standard Bank Group is a leading Africa-focused financial services group, and an innovative player on the global stage, that offers a variety of career-enhancing opportunities – plus the chance to work alongside some of the sector’s most talented, motivated professionals. Our clients range from individuals, to businesses of all sizes, high net worth families and large multinational corporates and institutions. We’re passionate about creating growth in Africa. Bringing true, meaningful value to our clients and the communities we serve and creating a real sense of purpose for you.

Grow and contribute to SBSA/BUs reputation, brand and image, through Public Relations strategies and plans by building media/PR relationships and leveraging PR/media knowledge and experience. To drive positive and proactive media/ brand and reputation outcomes for the bank / BU, through strategic relationship management, campaign planning and implementation, external communication plans, content development, in order to enhance the reputation of the bank and realise commercial benefits.

Type of Qualification: First Degree

Field of Study: Communication, Public Relations

PR & External Communications

• 7-10 years' experience and exposure in the financial services industry.
• Experience in dealing with diverse media outlets and demonstrate experience in interacting with media.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in using PR and media monitoring tools.
• An established network of media contacts is an advantage.
• Good team player and collaborator.
• Demonstrable problem-solving skills.

Behavioural Competencies:

• Checking Things
• Embracing Change
• Examining Information
• Interpreting Data
• Meeting Timescales
• Producing Output
• Providing Insights
• Pursuing Goals
• Showing Composure
• Taking Action
• Team Working
• Upholding Standards

• Technical Competencies:
• Brand Reputation Management
• Crisis Communication
• Environmental Scanning
• Financial Acumen
• Leadership to Stakeholder Engagement
• Managing Corporate Identity
• Media and Public Relations
• Target Audience Engagement
• Writing and Editing

Business Segment: Insurance & Asset Management

Location: ZA, GP, Johannesburg, 30 Baker Street

Grow and contribute to SBSA/BUs reputation, brand and image, through Public Relations strategies and plans by building media/PR relationships and leveraging PR/media knowledge and experience. To drive positive and proactive media/ brand and reputation outcomes for the bank / BU, through strategic relationship management, campaign planning and implementation, external communication plans, content development, in order to enhance the reputation of the bank and realise commercial benefits.

Qualifications

Type of Qualification: First Degree
Field of Study: Communication, Public Relations

Experience Required
PR & External Communications

• 7-10 years' experienceand exposure inthe financial services industry.
• Experience in dealing with diverse media outlets and demonstrate experience in interacting with media.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in using PR and media monitoring tools.
• An established network of media contacts is an advantage.

• Tertiary qualification in Public Relations, Communications Management, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in PR.
• Strong media relations skills and an existing network within sports.
• Strong understanding of traditional and digital media landscapes.
• Excellent project management abilities with meticulous attention to detail.
• Proven experience in an agency setting preferred.
• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills.
• Experience working on sports brands is advantageous.

• Leverage strong relationships with traditional and digital media.
• Pitch stories to secure high-impact media coverage.
• Develop and maintain a strong network of media and influencer contacts.
• Monitor media and industry trends, identifying opportunities and managing potential crises.
• Oversee and contribute to the development of content. including press releases, media pitches, speeches, articles, internal communications, and collateral materials.
• Manage media relations, influencer partnerships, and PR-driven events or activations.
• Track coverage and compile insightful campaign performance reports.
• Manage campaign budgets, timelines, and deliverables with meticulous attention to detail.

• Strategic and creative thinker.
• Passionate about sports, with a finger on the pulse of cultural trends.
• Passionate about storytelling, media, and brand building.
• Proactive, solutions-oriented, and confident under pressure.
• Emotionally intelligent and able to lead with empathy
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail.
• A trend-savvy professional who thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.