The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is a leading scientific and technology research organisation that researches, develops, localises and diffuses technologies to accelerate socioeconomic prosperity in South Africa. The organisations work contributes to industrial development and supports a capable state.
Divisional Communication Manager
About The Job
The CSIR has a vacancy for a Divisional Communication Manager within CSIR Smart Society. The incumbent will manage all internal and external communication functions for the division in line with the CSIR communication strategy to ensure consistency in CSIR messaging. The position is located in Pretoria.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and oversee the implementation of a divisional communication plan that aligns with the CSIR communication strategy and incorporates cluster communication plans targeting external and internal audiences.
- Create an inventory of promotional materials supporting the CSIRs work in those clusters managed by the division, adhering to CSIR corporate identity guidelines and processes, in close collaboration with the business development and commercialisation function.
- Assume responsibility for the quality of all promotional material produced across the three clusters.
- Manage the implementation of all communication activities, including media, events, exhibitions and advertising, in close collaboration with the central communication portfolio and in alignment with CSIR policies and procedures.
- Work with the central communication portfolio to identify, plan and execute internal and external business development and brand communication campaigns.
- Identify and compile content for CSIR-owned media.
- Identify opportunities for publicity in print, electronic and online media in line with CSIR policies, guidelines and procedures.
- Draft media releases and responses, as well as other communication-related documents for cluster and divisional leadership as well as researchers.
- Identify key business development events for CSIR participation and influence (relevant to clusters managed by the division).
- Plan and implement divisional events such as open days in conjunction with the CSIRs events team, as well as business development and commercialisation functions.
- Provide marketing communications support to the divisional business development and commercialisation function.
- Provide expert advice to leadership on the most effective and appropriate communication tactics, tools and campaigns as it relates to work undertaken in the division.
- Support divisional leadership in effectively communicating with key stakeholders in the private and public sectors to enhance the CSIRs influence in areas represented by the division.
- Facilitate thought leadership and serve as a conduit for the CSIR and divisional communication (into the division and vice versa).
- Serve as the CSIR brand custodian within the division, encouraging the correct use of the CSIR brand and adherence to corporate identity guidelines
- Embody and represent the CSIR values, infusing them into relationships with employees, key cluster stakeholders and clients.
- Contribute to efforts to ingrain organisational values, vision and mission to ensure an informed workforce.
- Manage divisional communication practitioners and the marketing and communication budget allocated by the division.
- A minimum of a postgraduate degree in Science Communication/Journalism/Public Relations or a relevant qualification with at least eight years of communication experience, of which at least two should be at a management level;
- A proven track record in the following:
- Management of large communication projects;
- Brand and reputation management;
- Stakeholder engagement at a strategic level;
- Content compilation and writing for all media; and
- Communication management in industrial, business or research and development environments.
- Media relations skills;
- Advanced written and verbal communication skills;
- Advanced computer literacy;
- Adaptability and networking skills; and
- All international qualifications require an evaluation report or certificate issued by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
The CSIR Offers
- Flexible hybrid work arrangement;
- Learning and development opportunities;
- Competitive and market-related remuneration packages;
- Total guaranteed salary packages that encompass contributions to the pension fund, risk insurance and medical scheme; and
- Rewards and recognition of employees' contributions and accomplishments through our esteemed CSIR Excellence Awards.
PLEASE NOTE THAT FEEDBACK WILL BE GIVEN TO SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES ONLY.
For more information, please send us anemail at Recruitmentinfo@csir.co.za. please do-not send applications to this mailbox, it is only for inquries.
The CSIR is an equal opportunity employer. As such, it is committed to the Employment Equity Act of 1998 and will, through the filling of this vacancy, give preference to candidates from designated groups. By applying for this position at the CSIR, the applicant understands and agrees that the CSIR may solicit a credit and criminal report from a registered credit bureau and/or South African Police Services (in relation to positions that require trust and honesty and/or entail the handling of cash or finances) and may also verify the applicants educational qualification and employment history. The CSIR reserves the right to remove the advertisement at any time before the stated closing date and it further reserves the right not to appoint if a suitable candidate is not identified.
