Specialist Media Relations and Publications (C3) at merSETA

Key Responsibilities The ideal candidate should be able to fulfil and perform the following key responsibilities: 

• Efficiently and effectively implement and evaluate the impact of the media relations plans/strategy ensuring delivery according to approved policy and procedures 
• End-to-end responsibility for internal and external publications, ensuring efficient and effective planning, execution and delivery according to the SETA needs, requirements and specifications 
• Manage day-to-day media relations/media requests across all platforms, for brand and corporate issues to enhance and/or promote merSETA brand 
• Close collaboration with the Marketing and Communications team to execute plans for brand building, corporate promotions, internal communications and corporate affairs 
• Develop written materials including speeches, press releases, talking points, media standby statements on brand and corporate issues as required 
• Build relationships with key media contacts and identify opportunities to proactively pitch brand and corporate stories through all media channels, including social media as appropriate 
• Develop and implement brand PR programmes, in accordance with approved communication plans/strategies, to support brand building initiatives/innovation/
• Edit written communication messages/news before distribution to internal and external audiences. 
• Serve as media liaison between the merSETA and various media outlets 
• Initiate, plan, coordinate and oversee media networking sessions to build and maintain strong relationships with the media 
• Efficient and effective implementation of publications strategy 
• Edit and proofread articles and other organisational documents 
• Support marketing efforts to expand the reach of publications and other resources and develop new initiatives to ensure appropriate information is shared with the right audiences via available channels 
• Coordinate inventory management of print publications 
• Develop budget to ensure the production of external magazines, corporate brochures and any other publications as required 
• Knowledge-sharing, documentation of information and informing key stakeholders on new information when required  

Qualifications and Experience 

• 3-year National Diploma or equivalent NQF Level 6 qualification in Journalism 
• Bachelor Degree or equivalent NQF Level 7 or higher qualification in Journalism will be advantageous 
• Public Relations, Media Studies or related field will be advantageous 
• Minimum of 3 years' experience working as a writer and/or editor 
• Minimum 3 years’ experience working in a media relations role or in public relations. 
• Experience working with journalists, news outlets and press agencies 
• Strong background in content writing, editing and publication management 
• Experience in crisis communication and reputation management