External Communications Officer - Braamfontein at South African Human Rights Commission

Job Purpose

The purpose of this role is to manage the external communications function for the SAHRC

Key Responsibilities

External communications management support

• Develop/ Contribute towards the development of an external communications strategy and plan for the SAHRC.
• Develop/ Contribute towards the development and implementation of an external communications policy and protocols for the SAHRC.
• Provide media monitoring services for the SAHRC
• Prepare/ Quality assure content for publication on relevant external communications channels.
• Conduct research/ investigations and prepare papers as inputs into broader external communications engagements.
• Design, develop and release media statements, opinion pieces and letters to the editor as may be required.
• Manage/ contribute towards the management of media and public relations (including building relevant networks).
• Provide events management support (including preparing inputs etc ahead of relevant events)
• Provide technical advice to the Commissioners and staff of the SAHRC in relation to external communications.

External communications infrastructure management

• Develop the SAHRC’s external communications channels.
• Maintain/ Manage the SAHRC’s external communications channels and networks including the SAHRC’s website.
• Manage the social media infrastructure and tools

Key competencies

• Editorial ability
• Problem solving and analysis
• Public Relations ability and knowledge
• Communications and communications management skills
• Communication skills (including written and oral communication)
• Media relations
• Honesty and integrity
• Client orientation and customer focus
• Stakeholder relations management

Knowledge and education

• Public Relations / Journalism Diploma or Degree
• Knowledge and understanding of communications processes, mechanisms and tools
• Knowledge and understanding of relevant legislation and regulations that govern communications
• Knowledge and understanding of relevant protocols
• Knowledge of human rights context and issues

​​​​​​​Experience

• 3 – 5 years relevant experience