Purpose

• The South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) is seeking an experienced and dynamic professional to join as Communications and Liaison Manager.
• Reporting directly to the Chief Operations Officer (COO), the successful candidate will play a key role in supporting organisational operations while leading SAAMBR's communications, media relations, public relations, brand positioning and stakeholder engagement activities.
• The successful candidate will contribute to strengthening SAAMBR's conservation impact, scientific reputation, educational initiatives and public profile while supporting operational excellence across the organisation.

Requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualification (Communications, Public Relations, Conservation, Business Administration or related field).
• Minimum 5–7 years' relevant experience in communications, public relations, stakeholder engagement, project coordination or organisational management.
• Demonstrated experience in media and communications management, strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, project management and coordination, and high-level report writing and presentation development.
• Experience in conservation, environmental, scientific or public benefit organisations.
• Experience with website content management, social media platforms and digital communication tools.
• Valid Code B driver's licence.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational, planning and project management capability.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite.

Responsibilities

Operations and Organisational Support:

• Supporting the COO with operational planning, reporting, KPI monitoring and strategic implementation.
• Coordinating organisational projects, initiatives and cross-divisional activities.
• Assisting with the preparation of management, Board and stakeholder reports and presentations.
• Supporting operational risk management, organisational communication and institutional initiatives.
• Promoting collaboration and communication across SAAMBR divisions.

Communications and Public Relations:

• Leading SAAMBR's communications, media and public relations functions.
• Developing and implementing communication strategies aligned with organisational objectives.
• Coordinating media releases, institutional messaging, public communications and stakeholder
  engagement activities.
• Promoting SAAMBR's conservation, research, education, rehabilitation and animal welfare achievements.
• Managing brand consistency and organisational reputation.
• Building and maintaining relationships with media, sponsors, donors, government departments, conservation organisations and strategic partners.
• Monitoring communication effectiveness, stakeholder engagement and media coverage.

Additional Information

• Appointments will be made in line with SAAMBR’s employment equity requirements.
• In line with the Protection of Personal Information Act, all personal information submitted as part of your application will be used solely for recruitment purposes and handled in a lawful, responsible, and confidential manner.
• SAAMBR reserves the right not to make an appointment.
• Only potential short-list candidates will be contacted.
• Should you not have heard from us by 31 July 2026, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Download Full Vacancy

• 👉🏿 Cofa apha

Hand Deliver at

• The South African Association for Marine Biological Research 1 King Shaka Avenue, Durban

Email Application

• [email protected]