Manager - External Communication Corporate Affairs MANCO at MTN

RESPONSIBILITIES
Mission/ Core purpose of the Job

• To proactively manage and protect MTN’s group-wide reputation with a view to positively shift the sentiment of MTN’s stakeholders by actively communicating MTN’s narrative. To drive the actionable plan design and oversee the implementation of external communication, reputation, digital platforms, and crisis communication strategy supporting MTN Group’s business objectives.

Key Performance Areas: Core, essential responsibilities / outputs of the position (KPA's)

The Manager: External Communications will be accountable to achieve the following objectives:

• Implement communication strategies under the guidance of the Senior Manager to enhance MTN Group’s reputation and stakeholder engagement.
• Work closely with group functions and opcos to design and roll out at least five comprehensive strategic external communication campaigns on crucial topics such as Digital and Financial Inclusion, stakeholder, and sustainability initiatives.
• Develop and implement comprehensive external communication strategies that align with MTN’s Ambition 2025 strategy. Innovate in narrative construction, messaging, and audience engagement to effectively communicate globally across diverse markets.
• Support in the execution of integrated communication campaigns tailored to diverse markets and stakeholders.
• Assist in the management of day-to-day media relations, including responding to monitoring the media relations mailbox, managing media inquiries, preparing press releases, and coordinating media briefings.
• Assist in the management of the creation and distribution of media kits, press releases, and other PR materials. Ensure accurate and consistent messaging that aligns with MTN’s strategic objectives.
• Assist in the development of high-quality content for external communication, including speeches, presentations, and thought leadership articles that align with MTN’s strategic messaging.
• Ensure content is tailored to various platforms and audiences, maintaining consistency and alignment with MTN’s overall communication goals.
• Monitor and analyse the effectiveness of communication campaigns and strategies, using metrics and KPIs to assess impact and identify areas for improvement.
• Prepare reports on media coverage, campaign results, and public relations activities, providing actionable insights to senior management.
• Support in the preparation and management of crisis communication materials and strategies.
• Actively participate in issues scanning, analysis, and tracking to anticipate and mitigate potential matters impacting MTN’s reputation and brand.
• Coordinate the planning and execution of communication events such as press conferences, public announcements, and media briefings.
• Evaluate the impact of communication campaigns and events to ensure objectives are met and identify areas for improvement.
• Monitor and report on the effectiveness of external communication initiatives.
• Stay updated with the latest trends in external communications and public relations to bring innovative ideas and practices to the team. 
• Provide insights and recommendations for enhancing the strategic communication approaches based on analytics and stakeholder feedback.
• Work closely with other departments and business units to ensure seamless integration of communications strategies.
• Provide communications support and advice to enhance MTN’s corporate affairs and sustainability initiatives.

Key Deliverables

• Develop five strategic communication campaigns annually under the guidance of the Senior Manager, aimed at enhancing MTN Group’s reputation and stakeholder engagement.
• Support the execution of integrated communication campaigns through timeous communications and toolkit tailored to various markets and stakeholders, ensuring strategic alignment and coherence.
• Organise and conduct regular coordination meetings and workshops that result in demonstrable improvements in communication practices and increased synergy among Opco teams.
• Collect, analyse, and report communication performance data from each platform/function, providing actionable insights that lead to strategic adjustments and enhancements.
• Support the delivery of external communication strategies and action plans.
• Assist in the management of online and social media reputation tactics.
• Ensure alignment of department activities with strategic objectives and budget constraints.

Role Dependencies

• Working across functions, businesses, and markets  
• Deep understanding of the MTN business strategy 
• Accuracy and detailed orientated 
• Timely recommendations for decision-making and rapid response 

QUALIFICATIONS
Education:

• Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field. Postgraduate degree would be advantageous 
• Relevant certification / accreditation / membership with professional body as required for role   

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a similar role.
• Relevant sector, industry, or area of specialisation experience (understanding emerging markets advantageous).
• Worked across diverse cultures and geographies would be advantageous. 
• Experience working in a medium to large organization would be advantageous.

Competencies:

• Motivated self-starter 
• Excellent communicator, strong writer with presentation and organisational skills 
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Business acumen to understand business risk and challenges, and recognise corporate opportunities 
• Proficient in handling digital communication platforms.
• Decisive Problem Solver, Innovative Value Creator, Results Achiever, Operationally Astute
• Culture and Change Champion, Relationship Builder
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage crisis situations.
• Other:
• Regional and international travel