Communications Officer: Departmental Communication Services (Elsenburg, Stellenbosch), Ref No. AGR 60/2025 at Western Cape Government

Job Purpose    

• The Department of Agriculture, Western Cape Government has an opportunity for a suitably qualified and competent individual to provide communication-related services to the department.
• Develop, manage and disseminate high-quality internal and external communication products that effectively communicate the organisation's messages, enhance its reputation and engage stakeholders. The successful candidate must be willing to travel and work after hours. 

Minimum Requirements    

• An appropriate 3-year National Diploma/B Degree (equivalent or higher qualification) in Communication, Public Relations or related field
• A minimum of 1 year relevant experience in communication, public relations, marketing or relevant
• A valid Code B (or higher) driving licence.
• NB: People with disabilities that restrict driving abilities, but who have reasonable access to transport, may also apply.

Recommendation    

• None. 

Key Performance Areas    

• Manage Communication Services for the Agricultural Producer Support and Development (APSD) Programme, the Branch ADSS and the Western Cape Department of Agriculture: Manage public enquiries relating to the APSD Programme as well as the department
• Enhance the department’s corporate identity and brand; Develop and implement communication campaigns and products
• Design and rollout of above-the-line communication campaigns and products in collaboration with relevant stakeholders (programmes, regions and facilities)
• Build relations and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure a common communication message to the sector through the coordination of and participation in functions, exhibitions, conferences, roadshows and other events of the Programme as well as the Department
• Compile, edit and develop communication and information products such as brochures, posters, invitations, letters advertisements and publications (such as the departmental magazine) in consultation with the Head of Communication (HoC) of the department
• Assist with the sponsorship campaign for the World Food Day event as well as any other similar events hosted by the department
• Write as well as collect articles toward the written publications of the Department (internal and external) such as writing of “feel good” human interest stories of farmers and other
• Provide information timeously to the HoC for media related matters, social media and website content; Edit videos and other digital content
• Update the website with relevant information
• Ensure administrative compliance and adherence to reporting processes and structures
• Develop a photo library through photographic services at events as well as of projects
• Work with and give direction to communication related service providers such as videographers and writers.

Competencies    

Knowledge of the following:

• Creating and maintaining good relations with people from all walks of life; Communication/Public Relations/Marketing
• Graphic design using Adobe Creative Cloud (inDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) and Canva in the production of communication products; Digital media and photograph; Branding, broadcasting/media liaison, online media (both web and social), research, public speaking, events management, latest trends in communication and information products
• Strategic thinking in the agricultural and communication field.  
• Skills in the following: Excellent communication (written and verbal); Computer literacy in MS Office Package (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); Ability to work independently and as part of a team; Ability to implement; Proven ability to organise. 

Remuneration    

• R 397 116 - R 467 790 per annum (Salary level 8)