Re-Advertisement Manager: Media Liaison/Relations at Rhodes University

Main Objectives

• The Media Relations Manager is responsible for shaping, safeguarding, and enhancing the University’s reputation and public profile across local, national, and international media platforms. The incumbent should be a highly strategic and proactive professional capable of operating with a significant degree of autonomy to cultivate, manage, and sustain strong relationships with a diverse range of media stakeholders, including print, digital, broadcast, and specialist outlets.
• Working closely with Communications Officers and other units within the Division, the incumbent will coordinate the development and dissemination of high-quality institutional narratives that reflect the University’s values, achievements, and strategic priorities. This includes the effective placement of stories across appropriate media channels to maximise visibility and impact.
• The role also encompasses effective management of media engagement, including news, editorial processes, and crisis communications, ensuring timely, accurate, and aligned messaging at all times and strategic responses to protect the University’s reputation during heightened scrutiny.

The Requirements

A relevant B Degree in either Journalism and Media Studies, Marketing, Communications, or a related field, plus approximately 7 years relevant experience, where such experience includes: -

• An excellent and proven network of relationships with regional, national and international media.
• Proven experience in the field at a newspaper, magazine or broadcaster.
• Experience in the deployment of a crisis communications campaign.
• Ability to commission and oversee video and audio production.
• At least 3 years’ management experience.
• Experience in higher education would be an added advantage.