Brand Manager: PR & Internal Communications

job Description

Hey there, Communication Enthusiast!

We're on the hunt for a dynamic, strategic, and charismatic wordsmith to join our tight-knit crew. This role is open to applicants from CT and JHB.

Are you a master of words and a maestro of messaging? Do you have an uncanny ability to turn a simple story into a captivating narrative? Are you ready to dive into the world of Public Relations and Internal Communications with boundless creativity and unwavering enthusiasm? If so, we've got the perfect stage for your talents to shine!

Mukuru is a fast-paced, rapidly growing fintech business and this role will work closely with cross-functional teams within Mukuru to shape and execute our external communications plans and internal communications initiatives. Your expertise and knowledge of public relations and communications, communication tools, and ability to think creatively and develop innovative communication plans will be crucial in successfully enhancing Mukuru’s brand reputation across all existing and new corridors.

The main purpose of this role is to enhance our brand's reputation, managing media relations, crafting compelling messages, and fostering transparent internal communication channels to engage and align our diverse workforce. This role Manages all aspects of Public Relations, Group Communications and Group Events for the business and will report directly into the Chief Marketing Officer.

Duties and Responsibilities

Duties and Responsibilities (include but are not limited to):

External Communications

Develop and implement comprehensive public relations plans to elevate the Mukuru’s reputation and promote its mission and achievements
Build relationships with key media outlets, journalists, and industry influencers to secure positive media coverage and manage media inquiries
Craft engaging press releases, thought leadership articles, and other content to effectively communicate company updates, product launches, partnerships, and industry insights
Monitor and analyze media coverage and industry trends, providing regular reports to leadership and suggesting adjustments to communication plans as needed
Act as the Mukuru’s spokesperson when necessary, ensuring consistent and accurate messaging in all external communications
Develop emergency communication plans and protocols to effectively manage and mitigate potential reputation risks
Media Relations

Build and maintain strong relationships with media contacts, journalists, and industry analysts to effectively pitch stories and secure media coverage
Develop key communication collateral for both internal and external stakeholders (briefing documents, corporate portfolios, spokesperson bios, articles, speeches, scripts, press releases, social media and blog content
Prepare company executives for media interactions, providing media training, talking points, and guidance on addressing potential questions or challenges
Serve as the point of contact for media inquiries during emergency situations, providing accurate and timely responses to protect the Mukuru’s image
Internal Communications

Develop and execute internal communication plans that foster employee engagement, alignment, and a sense of belonging across global offices
Prepare and distribute internal newsletters, magazine, memos, and announcements to keep employees informed about company news, updates, and initiatives
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather and share information about product developments, industry trends, and corporate updates
Manage internal communication platforms, ensuring content is relevant, timely, and aligned with the Mukuru’s values and goals
Plan and coordinate employee engagement events, town halls, and webinars to facilitate transparent communication and encourage feedback
Work closely with the Digital Journey Lead to consistently improve user experience with corporate intranet
Be the face of the company at key industry and media events
Track, measure and present results of communications plans and programs

Track and measure the results of communication plans and programs
Compile comprehensive reports of the impact of internal communication plans and programs
Present results to internal stakeholders
Stakeholder management

Build and maintain solid relationships with relevant internal and external stakeholders
Manage the PR agency relationship
Collaborate and liaise with internal stakeholders including business units and other departments, to provide support and guidance in relation to communications across all Mukuru corridors
Team Management

Manage communications team
Manage team performance and ensure continuous and regular performance feedback
Develop team members

Qualifications and Experience

Key Requirements:

Bachelors degree or Advanced Diploma in Communications, Public Relation, Journalism, Marketing, or related field
5 Years’ Proven experience in public relations, media relations, and internal communications, preferably within the fintech or financial services industry
3 years’’ Experience managing internal communications for a medium to large size organisation
5 years Experience in emergency communication and managing sensitive issues with a strategic mindset.
3 years Experience in Copywriting
Solid understanding of understanding of global financial markets, fintech trends, and regulatory landscape.
Proficiency in using various communication tools, platforms, and software.
Knowledge of Marketing and communications media processes.
Knowledge of Communications Principles
Knowledge of copywriting
Project Management Skills
Written and Verbal Communication Skills