Group Communications Specialist

The Person:
Bachelors Degree in Social Science / Communication Sciences / Media.
7+ years execution experience in communications strategy (including digital media), corporate brand communications, internal communications and advocacy initiatives.
Experience in stakeholder & investor relations, media management, and reputation & crisis management is essential.
Experience working with teams in Africa in a range of Africa markets.
The Job:
Set Group Internal Communications strategic guidance framework to provide Group-wide guidance on communications methodology, channels and principles.
Develop internal communication and stakeholder engagement policies, setting minimum standards and providing guidance in localising such at the country business level.
Establish and maintain the Group-wide internal communications spine and aligned plan to facilitate business and strategic information dissemination.
Execute and analyse regular Group-wide stakeholder internal and external perception audits, the findings of which are used to inform the company''s corporate brand/reputation management and communications strategy (at both Group and Business levels).
Create the environment for healthy internal communications and is central to entrenching the visibility and clarity of the Groups strategic direction.
Plan and manage the content & implement regular Group Townhalls and assist in delivering the Group''s annual leadership conference.
Initiate and execute Group-wide communications campaigns and develop and manage communication projects on behalf of other business units.
Take responsibility for engaging the internal communications spine to source, develop and aggregate content pertaining to the company''s sustainability initiatives.
Draft news stories, newsletters, marketing materials and case studies.
Work with the Group Communications Manager to develop internal campaigns on sustainability and community engagement themes.
Plan and manage the budget for the Internal Communications Engagement Centre of Excellence.
Competencies:
Proven ability to successfully execute on independent projects with limited guidance.
Demonstrated ability to manage a complex stakeholder landscape.
Excellent interpersonal and communication (verbal and written) skills, with the proven ability to deliver content / verbalise ideas easily.
Credibility and confidence to engage with, and influence, stakeholders at all levels.
Proven ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with Executive and Senior Management.
Ability to work well within a team.
Ability to think strategically and execute operationally.
Conscientious, with a service delivery orientation.
Demonstrated experience in effectively managing external vendors.
Ability to coach and develop others.
Proficient in MS Office packages.
Willingness to travel into all areas of operation.