Community Relations Lead at Sappi

This role reports to the General Manager Communications.

The main responsibilities of the job are:

• Formulate and execute a proactive community engagement strategy and engage both internal and external stakeholders via various communication platforms to better fulfil the Company’s responsibility and enhance its stakeholder relationships
• Partner with various internal and external stakeholders to regularly improve strategy and goals, ensure progress, and support various initiatives and activities including extensive project management
• Support the development of partnerships and strategic relationships with key external stakeholders to support competitive strategy\
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams across communications, operations and marketing to promote community initiatives to potential and current stakeholders, including customers and the community at large through various communications channels
• Act as an effective spokesperson and representative of the Company with respect to the community, government, regulatory and political matters.
• Identification, research, analysis and engagement (in conjunction with relevant Sappi business partners) on selected country, local governmental, regulatory and political issues
• Work with the Social Impact Lead and develop localised initiatives that contribute to the social Impact five-year goals and targets.
• Support legal group, compliance, risk management, and other internal stakeholders as needed in relation to community initiatives, risks or issues.
• Organise and lead community meetings or forums and ensure all relevant community stakeholders are kept informed about recruiting, social impact and procurement processes, as well as any requirements/conditions associated with these.
• Giving presentations to community organisations on Sappi’s shared value approach and social impact, fostering an environment that encourages and supports community involvement.
• Assist and advise the business on amicable resolutions of community issues within legislation and practicality.
• Build and maintain relationships with members of the community, key individuals, and other organizations. Serve as a key point of contact for local institutions and communities.
• Be the principal ambassador for the organization, with responsibilities for delivering the company’s vision within the local community
• Act as a mentor to junior community relations staff to assist their professional development and ensure they are aligned with strategic initiatives 
• Draft and distribute various communications that promote the company, as well as individuals or groups within the company.
• Attend relevant events and activities to represent the company and build strong relationships with key community members.
• Respond to inquiries from community members and other interested parties – when needed, recruit a knowledgeable spokesperson or information source to assist.
• Assist with monthly reporting to Sappi and the community structures with respect to local involvement.
• Organize and manage community outreach programs and coordinate special events that promote products, services, or ideas of the company.
• Build cross-functional relationships within Sappi. 
• Work with External Communications and Internal Communications Leads to promote Sappi activities within the community to other stakeholders such as the media, business fraternity.

The ideal candidate should have:

•    Degree / NQF Level 6 qualification in Marketing/Communication
•    At least eight (8) years experience in community relations, social responsibility or economic development or a similar high-pressure environment
•    At least eight (8) years experience in designing and implementing community relations initiatives
•    Experience in program and project management is essential
•    Excellent writing and communications skills-very strong presentation development skills required
•    Experience in workforce development and community-based programming
•    Strong analytical skills with an attention to detail
•    Understanding of the broad set of issues and concerns of municipalities and government as it relates to commercial development