Communications Director, South Africa

Description

The Communications Director Ford South Africa is responsible for modernising and leading all aspects of the company's communications strategy in South Africa. This includes a strong emphasis on digital transformation and impactful storytelling to build brand reputation, foster stakeholder engagement and support core business objectives. The role requires a strategic leader who will manage media relations, explore direct-to-consumer communication channels, oversee new product launches and sustainment programs, deliver impactful internal communications and provide expert counsel to senior leadership and a dedicated team. The incumbent will work closely with social media, marketing, manufacturing and HR teams to ensure Ford's vision and values are communicated effectively and consistently.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development, implementation and management of breakthrough product, corporate and internal communications strategies covering all stakeholders and channels (working with agency partners where appropriate).
• Provide guidance and counsel in the planning and execution of corporate, product and employee communications initiatives including new product launches.
• Lead the development and implementation of innovative digital-first communications strategies across all channels and stakeholders.
• Drive impactful storytelling initiatives that resonate with South African audiences, leveraging digital platforms and multimedia content.
• In partnership with Marketing, explore and implement new forms of direct-to-consumer communication including social media influencer partnerships and owned digital channels.
• Lead media relations strategy, act as primary media contact and supervise responses to media inquiries, press releases and events.
• Identify and proactively manage potential issues, providing guidance to team members on mitigation strategies.
• Develop and implement initiatives that promote sustainability, community engagement and social impact, ensuring alignment with Ford's values and strategic goals.
• Provide people leadership to direct reports, manage HR requirements and ensure effective team governance (budget on both monetary and vehicles, events, suppliers, controls).
• Partner with senior leadership on communication initiatives by collaborating and crafting briefing materials, speeches and presentations.
• Conduct research and analysis of industry trends, market dynamics and competitor activities to identify new communication opportunities.
• Liaise with global and regional communications teams to align and execute strategy.
• Participate in senior management projects as directed by the Ford South Africa CEO and Board of Directors.

Qualifications

Key Skills

Employment Type : Full-Time

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1

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