Senior PR Manager

SAOTA & ARRCC 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.

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 and 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 and 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 and 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' experience as a PR Account Director or above
• Proven problem-solving ability
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
• Knowledge of the following is beneficial:  Market IQ, Cision, Brandwatch, Microsoft Power BI, WordPress, and Mailchimp
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• Exceptional writing, proofreading, and editorial skills
• Passion for media, communications, and brand storytelling
• Ability to work with precision and professionalism under pressure
• Strong organisational and time-management capabilities
• Highly motivated, proactive, and self-directed
• Meticulous attention to detail
• Collaborative and team-oriented mindset
• Effective multitasking and project coordination
• Excellent digital and administrative competency
• Strong research and media monitoring skills

Why Join Us?

At SAOTA & ARRCC, you'll work alongside global design leaders, shaping the narrative of world-class architectural and interior projects.  This is your chance to champion the voice of two premium brands and leave a meaningful mark on the global design landscape.

Posted on 26 Jun 16:20, Closing date 25 Aug