Purpose

• To develop and implement the SAWS’ overall communications strategy in line with the organisation’s
  mandate.
• The role is responsible for, among other things, providing specialist communications
  related advice, improving SAWS’ corporate identity, brand positioning and producing a wide range of
  on and offline messaging that promotes the SAWS mandate and enhances its reputation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications/Public Relations or equivalent.
• A relevant post-Graduate qualification would be an advantage.
• At least 8 years in Communications/Public Relations, with a proven track record in developing and delivering brand, media and communications strategies which result in increased awareness amongst target audiences.
• Experience in working with digital technology
• At least two years’ experience in a public sector
• Proven track record in building and leading highly successful and motivated teams
• Stakeholder relations management
• At least 3 years management experience

Skills & Competencies

• Media and conference management
• Good verbal communication and interpersonal skills, including public speaking, media liaison and diplomacy skills
• Ability to create and maintain relationships with the media.
• Excellent writing skills
• Knowledge of industry standards, best practices, and trends in the discipline.
• Leadership
• Research and Creative Thinking
• Influencing and Negotiation Skills
• Networking and Collaboration
• Results driven
• Problem Solving
• Excellent Communication skills (Written and verbal/ presentation skills)
• Maintaining confidentiality
• Ability to work after hours

Responsibilities

Communication

• Managing the dissemination of the SAWS related information through various communication platforms including both print and electronic media, the SAWS website, social media, press conferences, various publications, and so forth.
• Identify local and international opportunities to position SAWS as the authoritative voice for weather-related warnings, as well as the provider of world class marine, aviation, air quality and climate services.
• To coordinate, facilitate and oversee SAWS’ participation in the WMO and in other key national and global programs.
• Develop and implement robust interactive and internal communication programmes that foster employee engagement e.g., newsletters; staff announcements, staff meetings and frequent CEO messages, education and topical issues and feedback mechanisms.

SAWS Branding

• To develop strategies and related programs aimed at growing the SAWS’ brand internally through employee-targeted communication and externally through various initiatives.
• Manage non-spoken communication (photographs, illustrations, infographics, and general branding) while ensuring that all key communication documents and touch points are of a high quality and are regularly updated.
• Identify target audiences, appropriate messaging, and measure success of actions in terms of the SAWS’ brand awareness.
• Together with the Human Capital Management department, identify and implement programmes aimed at communicating the SAWS’ Employee Value Proposition.

Annual Report

• Manage the SAWS annual reporting process from layout and design, collating reports from various contributors within the SAWS’ divisions, sourcing the appropriate visuals and editing the reports.
• Sourcing of the service provider to produce the annual report and managing the relevant contract and the Service Level Agreement
• Ensure timeous delivery of the annual report to Parliament and other relevant stakeholders.

Additional Information

• Register as user on our website to apply for the above position and upload your (Comprehensive CV with certified copies of qualifications).
• This is an EE position, and preference will be given to people living with disabilities, African, Coloured, and Indian Females.
• The South African Weather Service is an equal opportunity employer.
• Correspondence will be limited to short listed candidates only.
• Candidates who have not been contacted within 3 months after the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.

Ref No

• WS02/072026

Remuneration

• R993 248 – R1 319 027

Enquiries

• Enquiries for the above-mentioned positions must be directed to: Ms Thembisa Bixa, at Tel. (012) 367 6208