Strategic Communications Account Manager

Job description

Ockham Communications advises companies, executives and organisations navigating complex reputational and public affairs challenges. 

We work on issues where the stakes are high, the environment is fast-moving, and clear thinking matters. Our clients rely on us to bring sound judgement, strategic insight and clear communication to complicated situations. 

We are looking for a Strategic Communications Manager to join our team. 

This role is suited to someone who is intellectually curious, politically aware, an excellent writer, and able to stay calm under pressure. The successful candidate will combine strategic thinking with strong execution, balancing high-level advisory work with the day-to-day management and delivery required to run client accounts successfully. As part of a small, high-performing team, you will work directly on client strategy, contribute to high-level advisory work, and take on meaningful responsibility from an early stage. 

What you will do

Strategic communications and advisory 

• Develop and execute strategic communications and public affairs plans aligned with client objectives. 
• Help clients navigate reputational and regulatory challenges. 
• Contribute to messaging, positioning and stakeholder engagement strategies. 

Writing and content development 

• Produce high-quality written material including opinion pieces, media statements, briefing documents and social media content. 
• Synthesise complex issues into clear, persuasive communication tailored to different audiences. 
• Review and edit work produced by junior team members. 

Client management 

• Build trusted relationships with clients and serve as a day-to-day point of contact. 
• Lead client status meetings, manage timelines, and ensure consistently high standards of delivery. 
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensure strong internal coordination and smooth execution of client deliverables. 
• Ensure all content and reporting meet the CI, tone, and format requirements. 

Media and stakeholder engagement 

• Work with the internal team to pitch stories to media outlets, secure coverage, and proactively manage media relationships to enhance client visibility. 
• Grow and sustain a media network. 
• Assist with crisis and issues management when required. 

Team leadership and business development 

• Mentor and support junior team members. 
• Contribute to new business development, proposals and client pitches.

What we are looking for

• 3–6 years’ relevant experience in strategic communications, public affairs, journalism, policy, law, consulting or a related field. 
• Exceptional writing and communication skills. 
• Strong analytical ability, sound judgement, and attention to detail. 
• An understanding of the South African political, policy and media landscape. 
• Ability to understand complicated issues quickly and communicate them clearly. 
• Ability to manage multiple client deadlines and deliverables efficiently through strong organisational and workflow discipline. 
• Self-starter with initiative, professionalism and intellectual curiosity. 
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and clients. 
• Bachelor’s degree in the social sciences, humanities, law or a related field. Postgraduate qualification advantageous.
• Agency experience may be helpful, but is not essential. 

What we offer

• Competitive salary with performance-based incentives. 
• Meaningful exposure to high-level strategic communications work. 
• Significant responsibility and autonomy. 
• A collaborative, ambitious and intellectually engaged team environment. 
• Opportunity for professional growth and long-term career development. 

How to apply

Please send your CV, an original cover letter saying why you are the ideal candidate, and two published writing samples to [email protected]. Only emailed applications with a cover letter and the two writing samples will be considered. 

Deadline for applications: 5 June 2026 

Ockham Communications is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. 

Posted on 20 May 14:34, Closing date 5 Jun