Vice President, Corporate Communications and Media Relations

Key Responsibilities:

1. Corporate Communications & Media Relations:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive corporate communications strategy and roadmap in collaboration with Strategic Business Groups (SBGs) and Strategic Functional Groups (SFGs), ensuring alignment with the Group’s business goals.
• Create high-impact, newsworthy, and engaging content in partnership with SBGs/SFGs to strengthen brand image and amplify visibility across key markets.
• Draft, review, and refine internal and external communications materials, including media statements, speeches, articles, announcements, and stakeholder messages, ensuring clarity, consistency, and alignment with the Group’s voice.
• Strategically identify and optimise communication platforms and channels to connect effectively with target audiences and amplify reach.
• Build and nurture relationships with local, regional, and international media to foster collaboration and positive coverage.
• Leverage media monitoring tools and analytics to track sentiment, identify opportunities, and proactively address gaps to protect and enhance corporate reputation.

2. Crisis Communications:

• Lead the development and execution of comprehensive crisis communication strategies as a critical component of the Group’s Crisis Management Plan, ensuring timely, accurate, and transparent messaging during crises.
• Spearhead crisis preparedness initiatives, including the development of crisis response protocols, stakeholder communication frameworks, and pre-approved messaging templates.
• Conduct regular crisis communication training and simulation, and scenario planning for key stakeholders to enhance the Group’s readiness and response capabilities.
• Monitor and assess emerging risks to identify potential crises early and develop proactive communication strategies to mitigate impact.
• Perform post-crisis evaluations to capture lessons learned, refine response strategies, and strengthen overall crisis preparedness.

4. Publications:

• Oversee the production of the Group’s Integrated Report and Sustainability Report, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Evaluate and develop editorial content for internal and external publications, including articles and other material submissions.
• Oversee the development and production of the Group’s Integrated Report and Sustainability Report, ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements, industry benchmarks, and international best practices.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the content is accurate, comprehensive, and reflective of the Group’s values and achievements.
• Create and evaluate editorial content for internal and external publications, ensuring consistency in messaging and tone.
• Develop a content calendar to plan and execute thought leadership articles, op-eds, and other materials that position the Group as a trusted and forward-thinking organization.

5. Governance:

Uphold high governance standards by ensuring adherence to policies, processes, and procedures, including procurement guidelines and compliance requirements.

6. General Support:

Provide strategic and operational support to other areas within Group Corporate Communications, offering expertise and guidance as needed.

Preferred Experience:

• At least 10 years of proven experience in strategic communications, with a strong track record of crafting compelling content for external audiences (portfolio submission required).
• Demonstrated expertise in creative and strategic thinking, including the ability to develop innovative communication strategies and execute them effectively.
• Extensive knowledge of public relations, media relations, and corporate communications best practices, with a focus on reputation management and brand visibility.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional Communication: Outstanding written and verbal communication skills in English and Bahasa Malaysia, with the ability to convey complex messages clearly and persuasively.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong collaborative mindset with the ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Media Relations Expertise: Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with key editors and journalists, especially those covering business and economic desks at mainstream media outlets.
• Digital Proficiency: Adept at using digital communication tools including web platforms, and social media channels to enhance engagement and outreach.
• Organisational Excellence: Superior organisational and project management skills, with keen attention to detail and the capacity to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Crisis Management Acumen: Ability to maintain composure and deliver solutions under pressure, particularly during crisis situations.