PR and Social Media Senior Account Executive

Hybrid

Agency :

Havas Worldwide SOUTH AFRICA

Job Description :

As the PR and Social Media Senior Account Executive (Senior AE), you will work with the Senior Account Manager (SAM) on a variety of clients, including Havas itself, in developing and executing social media activities. These activities include content creation (written and visual), community management, and social media strategies to help clients build and maintain a positive public image. You will also assist in building clients' and Havas’ reputation through media relations and long-form content such as press releases and opinion editorials. This role requires a creative communicator with strong writing skills (both social and long-form), a knack for storytelling, and basic design capabilities. If you're passionate about shaping narratives and social media, you are the ideal candidate for this role.
Your role will involve collaborating with internal teams, including creative, media, and strategy teams, to deliver integrated solutions that align with client objectives and deliver measurable results.

Main Responsibilities:

• Social Media Management: Develop social media strategies and calendars, including captions and graphics for clients using brand CI and guidelines. Post on behalf of clients, manage communities, and report on activities.
• Havas Social Media and PR: Strengthen Havas South Africa's presence and engagement on social media channels. Take leadership of the content calendars following the social media strategy and work with the creative team to develop graphics. Manage communities alongside the PR intern and report on activities. Draft and pitch media releases and op-eds on behalf of Havas, increasing the visibility of Havas in the media.
• Media Relations & Outreach: Build and nurture relationships with journalists, reporters, and media outlets on behalf of clients. Pitch story ideas, secure media coverage, and respond to media inquiries in a timely and professional manner.
• Content Creation: Write press releases, media pitches, blog posts, social media content, and other materials that support clients’ messaging and campaigns. Ensure all content adheres to brand voice and strategic goals.
• Event Coordination & PR Stunts: Assist the SAM in executing press events, media briefings, product launches, influencer partnerships, and other special events that promote client visibility and enhance brand recognition.
• Reporting & Analysis: Track and analyse the effectiveness of PR and social media campaigns and media coverage.
• Research & Industry Insights: Stay up-to-date on industry trends, media shifts, and relevant news that may affect client strategies. Conduct competitive analysis and media research.
• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams (marketing, design, digital, and social media) within the agency to ensure integrated campaigns that meet client goals. Maintain consistent communication with clients to keep them informed of PR activities and results.
• Brand Storytelling: Shape and pitch compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences and elevate client brands in the public eye.
• Account Management: Support the SAM in providing day-to-day support for client accounts, including managing timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
• Influencer Relations & Partnerships: Identify and engage influencers who align with the brand to enhance visibility through long-term relationships and targeted campaigns. Track campaign performance and the success of partnerships.

Key Competencies/Skills:

• Diploma in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field – or working towards obtaining said qualification.
• 2-3+ years of experience in public relations, digital communications, or marketing within an agency setting. Previous experience working with multiple clients is preferred.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with social media platforms and digital communication tools.
• Proven ability to develop and execute social media campaigns.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple accounts and projects simultaneously.
• Proficient in PR and social media tools (e.g., Meltwater, Google Analytics, social media boosting) and media monitoring software.
• Familiarity with SEO, content marketing, influencer relations, event planning, or digital PR tactics is a plus.
• Familiarity with industry-specific social media strategies (e.g., tech, healthcare, lifestyle, etc.) is an asset.
• Familiarity with video production or graphic design tools can be beneficial.
• We seek a creative and innovative candidate with strong problem-solving skills and an eagerness to learn.

Contract Type :

Permanent

Here at Havas across the group we pride ourselves on being committed to offering equal opportunities to all potential employees and have zero tolerance for discrimination. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants irrespective of age, sex, race, ethnicity, disability and other factors that have no bearing on an individual’s ability to perform their job.