Johannesburg: Chief Strategy and Public Relations Officer – 5 year term (Public Health)

Our client is seeking a visionary Chief Strategy and Public Relations Officer to champion strategic excellence, strengthen national reputation, and guide the organisation into its next era of innovation and impact. This executive role is central to shaping the future of public health diagnostics in South Africa—combining strategic leadership, public influence, and data?driven decision?making at the highest level. As a key member of the Executive Committee, you will collaborate closely with the Board, CEO, and EXCO to translate insight into action, drive organisational performance, and ensure the NHLS remains a trusted leader in healthcare service delivery. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Lead the formulation, execution, and continuous refinement of the company strategy. • Translate strategic priorities into actionable strategic and annual performance plans. • Shape long?term direction through advanced research, policy insights, business intelligence, and emerging technologies. • Ensure strategic clarity and alignment across all levels of the organisation. • Identify opportunities for innovation, growth, and improved healthcare service delivery • Develop strategies to diversify revenue streams, including grants, donor funding, and partnerships. • Oversee departmental budgeting, cost control, and financial stewardship • Design and implement PR strategies that elevate the brand and its scientific achievements. • Manage media relations and secure positive, proactive coverage. • Lead publicity campaigns, special events, and national engagements. • Oversee brand consistency across all communication channels. • Manage stakeholder communications across government, healthcare providers, donors, and the public. • Lead crisis communication efforts with transparency and credibility. • Monitor public sentiment and respond to reputational risks. • Leverage data analytics to drive strategic decisions and operational improvements. • Stay ahead of legislative, industry, and technological shifts impacting healthcare. • Commission and interpret market research to identify new opportunities. • Consolidate insights into actionable recommendations for EXCO and the Board. • Develop business cases, valuations, and scenario models to guide strategic initiatives. • Establish KPIs and metrics to track progress against strategic objectives. • Analyse performance data and recommend optimisation strategies. • Ensure organisational visibility around priorities, compliance, and operational requirements. • Build strong relationships with board members, donors, government leaders, and partners. • Lead cross?functional strategic projects, including technology?driven initiatives. • Mentor and develop high?performing teams across Strategy, Business Intelligence, and Communications. • Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement. Non negotiables: Masters’ in PR / Marketing & Communication / Business Administration or related No less than 15 years’ experience in strategy formulation and execution, 5 years’ senior management / executive role Skills / attributes: Strategic Planning EI Innovation Leadership Stakeholder management Presentation Forward thinking Interpersonal Diplomatic Reporting Performance monitoring