Reporting line: Postmaster General

Purpose of Role

The Zambia Postal Services Corporation Public Relations Manager is responsible for managing and maintaining the public image and reputation of the Postal Service. They develop and implement strategies to enhance public perception, promote positive public relations initiatives, and manage media relations. The Public relations Manager ensures effective communication between Zampost, its stakeholders, and the general public.

Duties and Key Responsibilities

1. Develop and execute public relations strategies: Create comprehensive strategies to strengthen the Zampost’s public image, outline goals, and identify key messages. Implement PR campaigns and initiatives to achieve desired results.
2. Manage media relations: Establish and maintain positive relationships with media outlets, journalists, and influencers. Respond to media inquiries, coordinate interviews, and proactively pitch stories to generate positive coverage. Prepare statements, press releases, and media kits as needed.
3. Crisis Management: Develop and implement crisis communication plans to effectively handle negative incidents that may impact the Zampost’s reputation. Act as the primary spokesperson during crises, providing timely and accurate information to the media and the public.
4. Develop and distribute communication materials: Create and oversee the production of communication materials such as press releases, newsletters, speeches, and presentations. Ensure messaging aligns with Zampost’s objectives and core values.
5. Stakeholder engagement: Build relationships with stakeholders including customers, employees, Government agencies, and industry partners. Coordinate engagement activities, such as events, conferences, and meetings, to foster positive relationships and promote Zampost’s mission.
6. Monitor and analyse media coverage: stay abreast of news and media trends relevant to the Postal Services. Monitor media coverage and social media channels to identify potential issues or negative sentiment. Conduct media analysis to assess the effectiveness of PR campaigns and adjust strategies as needed.
7. Coordinate with internal departments: Coordinate with internal departments, such as marketing, customer service, and operations, to ensure consistent messaging and alignment in external communications. Provide guidance and support in public relations matters to various teams and individuals, as needed.
8. Budget management: develop and manage the public relations budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to achieve PR objectives. Monitor expenses, track campaign costs, and maintain financial records.

Personal Attributes

• A confident communicator and presenter.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills.
• Have a full understanding of media needs and media relationships.
• Be proactive, reliable, responsible and accurate with an attention to detail.
• The ability to keep information confidential.
• Tactical understanding of all primary social media platforms.
• Ability to work in high-stress environments, often for long hours.
• A wide degree of creativity and latitude.
• Self-motivated with a positive and professional approach to management.

Qualifications/Requirements

1. Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, journalism, or a related social science field. Advanced degree is preferable.
2. Proven experience in public relations, media relations, or related roles would be an added advantage.

Knowledge and Skills

1. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to adapt messaging for different audiences.
2. Excellent interpersonal and networking abilities to establish and maintain relationships with stakeholders.
3. Crisis management skills and the ability to handle high pressure situations
4. Proficiency in media monitoring and analysis tools.
5. Familiarity with public relations strategies and tactics, including digital PR and social media.
6. Knowledge of the postal industry and related regulatory frameworks is a plus.
7. Strong organisational skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
8. Attention to detail and accuracy in all communication materials.
9. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.