Executive: External Communications & BU Support

Structural Information Job number: 10026482 Job title: Executive: External Communications & BU Support Job grade: M3 Group/ BU: Corporate Division: CEO Span of control: 0 Reports to: Top Management Core Description The Executive: Group External Communications & BU Support is accountable for supporting the Group Executive: Corporate Communications in leading Telkom Group’s external communications, media relations, and reputation management agenda across the Group and Business Units. The role develops and executes strategic communication plans that shape public narrative, strengthen stakeholder confidence, protect corporate reputation, and ensure consistent messaging across internal and external platforms. The incumbent serves as an additional spokesperson for the company, manages the external PR agency relationship, supports Business Unit communication priorities, and drives execution discipline, content quality, and team performance. The role requires strong strategic judgment, excellent writing ability, high-level stakeholder influence, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-visibility corporate environment. Job Responsibilities 1. External Communications Strategy and Planning Support the development and implementation of the Group external communications and media relations strategy. Translate business priorities into integrated communication plans for the Group and Business Units. Develop detailed communication execution plans and monitor delivery against agreed standards, timelines, and objectives. Continuously track media, stakeholder, and industry developments to inform proactive communication responses and opportunities. 2. Media Relations and Spokesperson Support Manage relationships with key media stakeholders to strengthen Telkom’s reputation and reduce reputational risk. Act as an additional spokesperson for the company when required. Coordinate the flow of information to the media in a controlled, accurate, and timely manner. Support the preparation, training, and deployment of company spokespeople. Manage media queries, interviews, and proactive media engagement across relevant channels. 3. Writing, Editing, and Content Governance Draft, review, and refine media releases, articles, statements, and other external-facing communication materials. Ensure quality, consistency, and strategic alignment of communication outputs. Review sensitive and high-impact content for reputational risk, message accuracy, and alignment to the current operating environment. Work closely with content management colleagues to ensure messaging integrity and strong editorial standards. 4. Issues and Crisis Communication Support the development and implementation of crisis communication plans. Provide senior-level counsel to internal executives and senior management on media-sensitive issues and reputational matters. Ensure communication responses are coordinated, consistent, and aligned across the Corporate Communications function. Monitor emerging issues and risks that may affect the company’s reputation and advise on appropriate communication responses. 5. Business Unit Communication Support Provide strategic communication support to Business Units, with a strong emphasis on external communications and employee engagement messaging. Partner with BU leaders to align messaging to Group communication standards and strategic priorities. Influence internal stakeholders to secure the information, input, and cooperation required for effective communication delivery. Work closely with relevant internal teams to support consistent and effective business communication. 6. Agency Management and Delivery Excellence Manage the externally appointed PR agency and ensure clear briefs, delivery standards, and performance expectations. Monitor the quality and timeliness of agency outputs and ensure alignment to Telkom’s strategic objectives and brand requirements. Drive productivity, accountability, and disciplined execution within the team. Contribute to a high-performance team culture built on collaboration, responsiveness, professionalism, and continuous improvement. 6. Leadership and Team Support Manage the Group Communication and PR team within the scope of the role. Support a strong culture of delivery, ownership, and teamwork. Keep fully informed on current business programmes, initiatives, and priorities relevant to communication delivery. Contribute to the development of a high-performing communications function that is aligned to business needs and corporate reputation objectives. Core Competencies Functional Knowledge Corporate communications Media relations Media trends and news Reputation management Internal communications and employee engagement Stakeholder engagement Investor relations interface Telecommunications industry context Applicable policies and procedures Brand and communication governance Functional Skills Business acumen Analytical skills Strong written and verbal communication Stakeholder management Consultation and influencing Problem solving Information management Planning, organising, and execution Project management Relationship building Change management Risk management Decision making People management Leadership Creativity Competencies (Behaviour) Initiative Integrity Team player Thought leadership Market leadership Business leadership People leadership Personal leadership Ability to embrace change Ability to maintain composure under pressure Strong collaboration and team orientation Values aligned with Telkom values Certifications None Education NQF 7: Bachelor's Degree/ Advanced Diploma Experience 8 Years relevant experience, of which at least 3 years on senior management level Additional Information Qualification and experience: Qualification in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field is preferred. MBA/ Masters will be an added advantage. Minimum of 8 years’ experience in a media and/or corporate communications environment. At least 3 years’ experience at senior management level. Proven track record in developing and executing media relations and corporate communications strategies. Experience in managing external agencies, media stakeholders, and communication risks. Experience supporting executive leadership and working in a complex corporate environment. Proven ability to write, edit, and quality-check high-impact communication materials. Special requirements: This role is designed to provide strategic support to the Group Executive: Corporate Communications with a strong external communications focus. The incumbent will be expected to operate with sound judgment, high accountability, strong writing capability, and the ability to influence across the business. Special Requirements None Physical Requirements None Key Stakeholders Group Executive: Corporate Communications Business CEOs Group Exco Managing Executives / Group Executives Executive: Investor Relations Group Communication team Business Unit Heads PR and Internal Communication agencies Media Brand team Executive leadership team Relevant internal subject matter experts