Pretoria: Media Relations & Brand Events Manager

About the Role An established automotive company is expanding its presence in the South African market and is seeking a dynamic Media Relations & Brand Events Manager to lead media engagement, strengthen brand visibility, and deliver impactful brand events. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the public perception of the brand in South Africa. This role focuses on building strong relationships with automotive media, managing press engagement, coordinating media vehicle programmes, and planning high-profile brand and product events. This is an exciting opportunity for a communications professional with a passion for the automotive industry and a proven track record in media relations, brand storytelling, and event management. Key Responsibilities Media Relations & Public Relations Build and maintain strong relationships with automotive journalists, editors, and media platforms. Manage media enquiries and ensure timely and accurate responses. Coordinate and distribute press releases, product information, and media statements. Monitor media coverage and address factual inaccuracies where necessary. Develop media engagement strategies to enhance brand perception and visibility. Maintain and grow a comprehensive database of media contacts and influencers. Arrange interviews and prepare briefing materials for executives and technical experts. Media Vehicle Programme Manage the allocation and scheduling of media test vehicles. Ensure media vehicles are maintained in optimal condition and correctly configured. Coordinate long-term vehicle loans for media partners. Track and report media feedback and product insights to internal teams. Brand & Product Events Plan and execute national product launches and media drive events. Organise press briefings, product demonstrations, and media conferences. Coordinate brand participation at automotive exhibitions and industry events. Support dealer network marketing initiatives and launch events. Manage event budgets and ensure efficient execution. Brand Reputation & Communications Monitor automotive media, online platforms, and social media for brand mentions. Develop strategies to strengthen brand reputation and positive media sentiment. Work closely with marketing teams to ensure consistent messaging across all channels. Support crisis communication initiatives when required. Content & Communication Support Assist in developing brand stories, product narratives, and thought leadership content. Support executive public communications and professional networking engagement. Coordinate photography, video, and media content during events and launches. Requirements Experience 58 years experience in public relations, media relations, or corporate communications Experience within the automotive industry or automotive media is strongly preferred Proven experience planning and executing brand events, product launches, and media drives Key Skills Exceptional relationship-building and networking abilities Excellent written and verbal communication skills Strong project management and organisational abilities Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously Solid understanding of automotive products and technology Personal Attributes Proactive and relationship-driven professional Professional, diplomatic communicator Strong attention to detail Passion for the automotive industry Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment