Account Manager - Public Relations

The Account Manager - Public Relations plays a key role in supporting client success by managing public relations activities and maintaining strong client relationships.

The role is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and coordination of PR campaigns, working closely with clients, media partners, and internal teams to ensure effective delivery of communication strategies, measurable outcomes, and high levels of client satisfaction.

Location: Candidates based in Johannesburg or Durban are preferred, however suitably qualified candidates from other locations may also be considered.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the primary point of contact for assigned clients, building a strong understanding of their objectives, brand positioning, and industry environment.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of PR strategies that support client goals and enhance public and media visibility.
• Manage media relations by building and maintaining relationships with relevant journalists, editors, and influencers.
• Draft and coordinate PR materials such as press releases, media pitches, statements, and briefing documents, ensuring consistent and accurate messaging.
• Collaborate with internal teams (e.g. content, design, digital, marketing) to ensure PR initiatives align with broader communication and marketing efforts.
• Monitor media coverage, industry trends, and news developments to identify opportunities, risks, and insights for clients.
• Track, analyse, and report on campaign performance, providing insights and recommendations for improvement.
• Manage project timelines, deliverables, and budgets to ensure work is delivered efficiently and to a high standard.
• Support business development activities where required, including proposals, presentations, and client meetings.

Requirements

• Relevant qualification in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in PR, communications, or account management roles (agency or in-house).
• Solid understanding of media relations and PR campaign execution.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear and engaging messages.
• Ability to think strategically while managing day-to-day execution.
• Familiarity with PR tools, media databases, and reporting or analytics platforms.

Core Competencies

• Strong organisational and time management skills
• High attention to detail and quality standards
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
• Confident client-facing and interpersonal skills
• Relationship-building and stakeholder management capability
• Ability to work collaboratively and, where applicable, guide or support junior team members