Senior PR Manager at SAOTA

SAOTA and ARRCC (internationally renowned for high-end residential and hospitality design) are seeking a Senior PR Manager to lead our global media strategy and elevate our brands across premium digital and print platforms.

This is a unique opportunity to drive visibility and thought leadership for two of South Africa’s most respected design studios by crafting narratives that resonate globally. You’ll lead PR campaigns, manage high-profile media relationships, and develop processes that shape how the world experiences our work.

Please note that only candidates currently residing in Cape Town, South Africa, will be considered for this role

About the Role

• As the Senior PR Manager, you’ll conceptualise and implement targeted media strategies across a range of platforms, cultivating strong relationships with top-tier global and local media to secure premium editorial coverage. You will manage press releases, develop comprehensive communication plans, lead award submissions and interviews, and work closely with internal stakeholders to align messaging across departments.
• This role demands strategic foresight, exceptional storytelling, and deep knowledge of the global design and lifestyle media landscape. You will be supported by a junior PR resource and collaborate closely with the Head of Marketing, Brand Managers, and Asset Producer to drive cross-functional marketing success.

Key Responsibilities
Press & Media Strategy

• Develop and manage all PR processes, playbooks, and editorial calendars.
• Craft and pitch tailored media campaigns to Design, Lifestyle, and Business publications.
• Build and maintain Tier 1 media relationships globally.
• Create SEO-optimised press releases and press packs.
• Ensure brand consistency and PR integration across SAOTA & ARRCC.
• Monitor brand perception and implement crisis communication protocols when necessary.

Public Engagement & Forums

• Identify speaking engagements, jury invites, and awards opportunities.
• Manage all award submissions and related content creation.
• Support leadership in public forums with briefing documents and high-level talking points.
• Track and report on PR engagement and public appearances.

Internal Communications & Collaboration

• Contribute to internal platforms such as STM Quarterly and MyWorkspace.
• Collaborate with Brand Managers, Graphic Designers, and Digital teams to integrate PR content across channels.
• Assist with photoshoots and the development of campaign assets.
• Mentor junior PR staff and ensure knowledge sharing.

Key Requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Marketing, Journalism, Communications, or Architecture (postgraduate advantageous).
• 2–5 years of experience as a PR Account Director or in a senior communications role.
• Demonstrated success in securing top-tier international media placements.
• Strong editorial and copywriting skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Solid knowledge of media tools and platforms (e.g., Market IQ, Cision, Brandwatch, Power BI, WordPress, Mailchimp).
• Exceptional problem-solving and project coordination capabilities.
• Ability to multitask under pressure with strong time management and organisational skills.
• Collaborative, proactive, and self-directed approach with a passion for design storytelling.