Job Purpose :
As the DGM- Public and Media Relations, the individual will be responsible for developing and executing strategies that are intended to create and uphold a positive public image for Embassy Developments Ltd. (EDL) and its various business entities and corporate initiatives. The individual shall develop and implement an effective media relations strategy, seeking high-level placements in print, broadcast and online media and industry events. The individual shall nurture on behalf of the EDL, strong industry & media network by working and forming relationships with various members of the media, government, and public directors that enables increased awareness and development of desired corporate image for EDL. Additionally the individual shall also provide oversight to internal communications.
Key Responsibilities :
- Act as EDL’s spokesperson and lead point person for all media interactions, such as newspaper interviews, ensuring a positive portrayal of the business at all times. Also serve as EDL’s primary media contact and one of the key representatives for the business.
- Partner with management teams throughout the business for the purpose of formulation and execution of strategies, solutions, and opportunities pertinent to their business / initiatives. Responsible for formulating relevant strategies in conjunction with the business and marketing head and leading the execution of outward PR strategies and plans that :
- Promote key initiatives and promote the business image and reputation
- Enable the cultivation and enhancement of strong and meaningful relationships with the target audience, external partners, and key media platforms, which favorably positions the business / parks / projects / initiatives in the market.
- Promote awareness of the EDL’s corporate and social initiatives
- Develop media relations strategy, seeking high-level placements in print, broadcast and online media. Leverage existing media relationships and cultivate new contacts within business and industry media
- Manage media inquiries and interview requests. Prioritize media opportunities, coordinating with appropriate persons in organizing and preparing presentations, speeches, talking points, and other external media relations materials.
- Engage, cultivate and manage press relationships that ensure the coverage of the business’s / projects, programs, events, public announcements, among other projects.
- Collaborate with social media team to engage audiences across traditional and new media for desired PR
- Create content for press releases, byline articles and keynote presentations
- Monitor, analyze and communicate PR results on a quarterly basis
- Evaluate opportunities for partnerships, sponsorships and advertising on an on-going basis.
- Build relationships with thought leaders to grow industry awareness
- Ensure coordinated approach with the Head of Communication for business’s content including online web content and social media interactions ensuring that all content put out by EDL, both in print and online conforms to the business’s overall values and there is a unified message. Work closely with marketing to ensure advertising campaigns are in line with the company's image and goals. Maintain a keen understanding of industry trends affecting EDL clients and make appropriate recommendations regarding communication strategy surrounding them
- Lead and oversee crisis operations and work to repair a client's damaged reputation after negative incidents have occurred.
- Increase visibility of PR programs and priorities within the organization and to key stakeholders.
- Collaborate internally with departments such as Marketing Communications, Legal, Finance and HR departments as well as with external investors and partners in developing and executing initiatives that address EDL’s corporate issues and business agenda.
- Oversee internal communications ensuring frequent dissemination of information and updates to personnel across EDL.
- Hire and direct public relations specialists and other staff including assigning activities and accounts, as well as approving and reviewing their work. In addition to supervising, coaching and developing the public relations specialists and staff, manage the department goals, strategies and performance.
- Other duties as assigned by reporting manager
- Lead PR initiatives for the launch of all new projects in line with marketing aligned launch plans.
Qualifications and Work Experience :
BA / MA degree in PR, Mass Media & Communications or a related discipline with 12-15 years relevant work experienceExperience with planning and executing successful PR campaigns at both a local and national levelStrong relationships with both local and national business and industry focused media persons / outletsEvent planning experienceExperience in acting as a company spokesperson; comfortable and skilled in both broadcast and print media interviewsExceptional writing and editing skillsSolid experience with social media including blogs, Facebook, Twitter, etc.Knowledge, Skills and Competencies :
Strong communicator - Ability to communicate clearly and constantly; Persuasive prowess and writing skills – Ability to sell the narrativeRelationship builder / connections cultivator / networking skillsIn-depth understanding of media needs and media relationshipsExcellent interpersonal skillsTech savvy with adequate social media skillsConfident and comfortable with public speaking and presentationResult and solution oriented with proactiveness, initiative and enterpriseAlert, aware and ‘plugged into’ events, trends and developments in the industryAdept at managing stakeholder relationships and crisis managementAbility to prioritize and plan effectivelyFlexible with ability to multi task, manage evolving situations and deliver within short timeframe / under pressureAbility to manage self - maintaining composure, level head and sound judgmentWork ethic and diligence - Thoroughness on prep and delivery of messages.Proactive, reliable, responsible and accurate with an attention to detailCreativity – delivering original ideas within short timelines