Senior Manager: Stakeholder Relations and Communications at Construction Education & Training Authority (CETA)

Job Responsibilities

• Identify and map the needs and expectations of the external stakeholders to deliver suitable engagement approaches that unlock shared value for CETA and its stakeholders.
• Develop an approach to stakeholder relations that will drive the CETA’s stated goals of inclusion, supporting the national agenda and the building of a stronger skilled society in South Africa.
• Source and develop relationships with key partners that ensures CETA initiatives are supported to succeed and make impact.
• Manage media and other stakeholder relations to grow and maintain CETA stakeholder networks.
• Manage the day-to-day relationship with levy payers of the CETA to ensure that they are aware of important developments .
• Monitor and manage stakeholder satisfaction surveys to better understand the perceptions about CETA offerings.
• Manage CETA relationship with government bodies, regulators, industry bodies and stakeholders in supporting the CEO and the Accounting Authority and responsible Minister.
• Facilitate processing and tracking of key decisions from stakeholder engagements.
• Accompany the CEO in strategic engagement and ensure that all identified actions are recorded and implemented.
• Advise and organize appropriate meetings, interventions, appointments, networking sessions and presentations for the CEO.
• Guide and manage lobbying activities with external stakeholders for the benefit of the CETA and the industry.
• Understand and support the building of a prominent and highly valued corporate reputation in collaboration with the Marketing team.
• Gather information, analyse it from a stakeholder perspective, and provide proactive solutions.
• Evaluate impact of engagement strategies and provide regular feedback to Executive Management, CEO, and the responsible Board Committee.
• Facilitate stakeholder relations audits; report on the findings and compile action plans on the mitigation of shortcomings.
• Oversee efforts to ensure balanced representation of all chamber industries in CETA engagements.
• Approve and submit comprehensive sub-sector reports and data to inform the Chambers Reports that contribute to the development of credible SSP.
• Lead industry engagement to identify specific skills development needs in each sub-sector.
• Represent the organisation to stakeholders, associates and partners and maintain professional, effective and amicable relationships to ensure that CETA’s interests are upheld.
• Ensure all Stakeholder Relations and Chambers’ activities adhere to relevant legal, regulatory, and industry standards.
• Manage stakeholder mapping and prepare communications to stakeholders and respond to stakeholder enquiries.
• Distribute intelligence gathered via stakeholder engagements to relevant internal stakeholders. 
• Responsible for the preparation and monitoring of Partnership Agreements with potential industry partners.

Communications

• Oversee the planning and execution of communication campaigns and events; including ensuring consistent and engaging content across digital platforms.
• Manage CETA’s response to media inquiries and crisis communication scenarios.
• Drive innovation in digital and traditional communication platforms.
• Lead the CETA Digital Communications Strategy that is aligned across all platforms - including social media, websites, blogs, social media, newsletters, e-mail communications and promotional materials.
• Oversee social media channels, ensuring that content is relevant, timely, and engaging for consistent and credible messaging for effective communication.
• Ensure that CETA communication and messaging content is aligned with marketing objectives and engaging the target audience.
• Oversee internal and external communications to ensure messaging alignment with its values and goals.
• Collaborating with Management for implementation of the CETA-wide communication plan, associated policies and messages for identified stakeholders.
• Manage the CETA’s public relations strategy, including media relations, press releases, crisis communication, and reputation management.
• Lead communication strategies for key corporate initiatives such as product launches, events, or public announcements.
• Perform any other relevant duties as directed by the CEO.

Specific Deliverables Expected

• Credible, reliable and useful Management reports.
• CETA Communications and Stakeholder Relations Operational registers are updated and tracked for regular reporting and accountability.
• Business unit’s Service Standards and Business Scorecard aligned overall CETA scorecards, APP, SLA, Strategic Plans, etc. and progress reported upon regularly.
• Monthly and quarterly progress against CETA Stakeholder Matrix and Communications Strategy and Plans.

Requirements

Desired Skills, Experience and Competencies

• Post Graduate qualification in any of the following fields: Business Administration, Public Relations, Marketing, Communications, Political Science / Studies, Project Management, or any similar qualification at NQF 8 level.
• Minimum of 7-8 years’ experience, of which at least three (3) must have been in a senior management role.
• A proven track record in a public entity and / or regulated environment and extensive knowledge of government policies is critical.
• Demonstrated experience in reporting to Executives and Boards on governance, risk and compliance control matters and other assurance related responsibilities.
• Knowledge of higher education sector, the SDA, SDLA and the PFMA are essential.
• Computer literacy: Advanced Excel and Data Analytical skills are required.
• Valid code 08 driver’s license is essential.