Public Relations Officer – 3 Month Contract – Port Elizabeth
Sales / Marketing / Communications
Port Elizabeth – Eastern Cape
Public Relations Officer
Purpose of the Role
The Public Relations Officer will support the municipality’s communications strategy by managing media relations, coordinating public engagement initiatives, and enhancing the municipality’s reputation among residents, stakeholders, and the broader public. This role is critical in ensuring transparent, timely, and accurate communication between the municipality and its various publics during this contract period.
1. Media Relations and Management
Develop and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets
Draft, edit, and distribute press releases, media statements, and media advisories
Coordinate media interviews for the Mayor, Executive Mayor, Municipal Manager, and other senior officials
Monitor media coverage and prepare daily media monitoring reports
Respond to media enquiries within prescribed timeframes
Organize and manage press conferences and media briefings
Maintain an updated media database and contact lists
2. Strategic Communication Support
Assist in implementing the municipality’s communication strategy
Develop communication materials including fact sheets, briefing notes, and talking points
Support crisis communication efforts and manage reputational risks
Ensure alignment of all external communications with municipal policies and procedures
Contribute to the development of communication plans for municipal projects and initiatives
3. Stakeholder Engagement and Community Relations
Coordinate and support community engagement initiatives and public participation processes
Assist with organizing municipal events, including mayoral outreach programs, community meetings, and stakeholder forums
Liaise with ward councillors regarding communication needs within their constituencies
Develop content for community newsletters and information campaigns
Support the implementation of public awareness campaigns on municipal services
4. Digital and Social Media Management
Manage and update the municipality’s social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn)
Create engaging content for digital platforms
Monitor and respond to public enquiries and comments on social media channels
Track social media analytics and provide regular performance reports
Support the maintenance and updating of the municipal website’s news section
5. Internal Communications
Assist with internal communication initiatives to keep municipal employees informed
Draft internal newsletters, circulars, and announcements
Support employee engagement activities and events
6. Administrative and Reporting Functions
Maintain accurate records of all communication activities
Prepare monthly activity reports for management
Manage the communications calendar and coordinate communication activities
Ensure compliance with relevant legislation including PAIA, POPIA, and Municipal Systems Act
Assist with budget tracking for communication activities
Desired Experience & Qualification
Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Media Studies, or related field (NQF Level 7)
Honors degree would be advantageous
Valid driver’s license (Code B)
Experience
Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in public relations, corporate communications, or media relations
Experience working in the public sector, local government, or municipal environment will be highly advantageous
Proven track record in media liaison and content development
Experience in crisis communication and reputation management
If interested kindly apply with relevant experience and qualification
If you do not hear from us within 14 days, kindly consider your application as unsuccessful this time
