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SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL PARKS (SANPARKS)
 
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INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR: COMMUNICATION PROFESSIONAL - SANPARKS VISION 2040
Park: Groenkloof (Head Office)
 
Description:
Project Overview:
SANParks Vision 2040 is a collaborative, inclusive process that will re-imagine and co-create a new future for national protected areas with a rigorous effort to include the citizens of the country and the world in the co-creation of National Protected Areas of the future.
The development of SANParks Vision 2040 and the strategy to support it, through an inclusive process involving a wide range of stakeholders and building the organisation that can ensure the realisation of this vision, is at the heart of the phased project.
 
Job Summary:
As the Communication Professional for the SANParks Vision 2040 Project, you will play a crucial role in managing and implementing both internal and external communication strategies. Your expertise will be instrumental in disseminating project updates, engaging stakeholders, and building a positive brand image for Vision 2040. This role presents an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact, contributing to the success of a transformative project with far-reaching benefits.
This is a part-time, freelance position of approximately 200 - 250 hours over approximately a six-month period.
 
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Communication, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field. Advanced degrees or certifications are a plus.
  • Proven experience (at least 5 years) in strategic communication roles, ideally in an environment related to or understanding of the conservation sector (also corporate or nonprofit environment).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail and the ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences.
  • Strong project management abilities, capable of handling multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously.
  • Demonstrated experience in crafting content for various platforms, including digital and traditional media.
  • Proficiency in using communication tools, social media platforms, and graphic design software.
  • Familiarity with the biodiversity, environmental management and/or conservation sector will be advantageous.
  • A proactive, creative, and solution-oriented mindset, with a passion for driving positive change through effective communication.
  • Work very closely with the Communications as well as Marketing staff within SANParks in order to ensure cohesion and dissemination of messages throughout the organisation.
  • Assist in identifying risks and mitigation actions
 
Responsibilities:
  • Refine existing Vision 2040 communication plans and execute a comprehensive communication plan for the Vision 2040 project, ensuring alignment with project goals and objectives.
  • Create content for a variety of channels, including press releases, website updates, social media, newsletters, and internal communications.
  • Create advertisements, newsletters and other products requiring graphic design inputs.
  • Oversee internal communication efforts to keep employees informed and engaged, fostering a sense of involvement and ownership in the Vision 2040 project.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to collect relevant project updates and milestones and effectively communicate progress to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Cultivate and maintain positive relationships with media outlets, industry influencers, and other relevant parties to secure favourable coverage and promote the project's achievements.
  • Manage potential crisis communications, addressing issues promptly while safeguarding the reputation of the Vision 2040 project and the organization.
  • Coordinate and support communication-related events, conferences, and workshops related to Vision 2040.




Interested persons who meet the above-stated qualifications should forward their applications which should consist of a cover letter, detailed Curriculum vitae, certified copies of qualification(s) and Identity Document (certified within the past 3 months) to the following address:
Human Resources Division
SA National Parks
PO Box 787
PRETORIA
0001
Email: Gugulethu.Khuzwayo@sanparks.org
 
Closing Date: 24 October 2023
 
SANParks is committed to the principles of employment equity. Preference will be given to PDI / HDSA.