Deputy Director: External Communication at The Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA)

Qualification/s Requirements

• A relevant three (3) year National Diploma / Degree in Communication/Journalism/ Media Relations (at least 360 credits). Minimum of six (6) years' experience in Stakeholder and Media relations with three (3) years in Management or Middle Management role within relevant environment. Computer literacy which includes a good working knowledge of Microsoft Office products.

Key Performance Areas

• The incumbent will be responsible for a wide variety of tasks which include but not limited to the following. Develop and implement effective media policies and strategies. Develop, implement and monitor the communication strategy, in line with the GPAA, GEPF and National Treasury goals. Provide input into and implement media liaison plans, reporting back on effectiveness. Develop and implement media liaison policy and ensure internal distribution and compliance.
• Provide strategic stakeholder / media liaison support and guidance to all business units. Develop framework to guide GPAA, GEPF and National Treasury on the handling of crisis situations. Monitor and evaluate media coverage. Oversee the monitoring and analysis of print and electronic media for any reference to GPAA / GEPF / National Treasury or industry. Report on media coverage, identifying key themes and areas of concern and escalate as needed. Oversee the development and maintenance of effective media database. Manage the timely responses to media queries. Oversee the media coverage including all relevant articles (newspapers and online) and ensure accurately catalogued.
• Monitor the compilation and distribution of newspaper clippings and electronic media articles internally daily. Manage all external contracts by providing media services in line with the SLA with GEPF. Develop and manage correspondence. Liaise with the Publications and Content Specialist regarding the content of all written material, providing input and context as required. Organise and coordinate interviews with the media and stakeholders. Contribute to media topics and articles for the national media. Respond to media queries and distribute media statements. Facilitate print and broadcast education campaigns. Manage and develop staff. Set, agree and monitor performance of direct reports, check that aligned with performance agreements.
• Identify development needs and succession planning requirements and provide coaching and mentoring as appropriate. Allocate work according to the individual workload, expertise, and developmental needs of the individual. Ensure employment equity compliance. Monitor that individual outputs achieve business requirements. Recruit departmental staff using defined processes. Facilitate staff productivity and efficiency, minimizing absenteeism and turnover. Motivate staff through the implementation of various recognition mechanisms. Facilitate communication through appropriate structures and systems. Enable knowledge sharing and knowledge transition processes, including sharing of best practices across the GPAA. Contribute input to performance feedback and coaching of team members.