Senior Public Affairs Manager

Our client, a leading multinational corporation with significant operations, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Senior Public Affairs Manager. This role is pivotal in shaping and managing the company's engagement with government bodies, regulatory agencies, and key stakeholders to advance corporate interests and navigate the political and regulatory landscape. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in public policy, government relations, and strategic communications, with a proven ability to build consensus and influence decision-makers.

This is a senior-level, fully remote position, offering the opportunity to make a significant impact from anywhere, while maintaining strong ties to the company's South African operations, including its presence in East London , Eastern Cape.

• Develop and implement comprehensive public affairs strategies to support the company's business objectives and enhance its reputation.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments at national and sub-national levels, identifying potential impacts and opportunities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government officials, policymakers, regulators, and industry association representatives.
• Represent the company in meetings with government bodies and at industry conferences and forums.
• Advise senior leadership on public affairs issues, policy trends, and potential risks and opportunities.
• Develop policy positions and advocacy materials, including position papers, briefings, and submissions.
• Manage external consultants and legal counsel involved in public affairs activities.
• Coordinate crisis communications and reputation management efforts related to public policy issues.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including legal, corporate communications, and business units, to ensure alignment on public affairs strategies.
• Promote corporate social responsibility initiatives and stakeholder engagement programs.

• Master's degree or equivalent in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, International Relations, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in public affairs, government relations, corporate communications, or public policy, preferably within a large corporation or a public affairs consultancy.
• Demonstrated success in influencing public policy and navigating complex regulatory environments.
• Exceptional understanding of the South African political and regulatory landscape.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Superior written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with senior government officials and stakeholders.
• Experience in crisis management and corporate reputation management.
• Ability to work independently and lead complex initiatives in a remote setting.
• High level of integrity, ethical conduct, and professional judgment.

This is a fully remote position offering exceptional flexibility and autonomy. Our client provides a highly competitive executive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including executive health insurance, a generous retirement plan, and significant performance-based bonuses. Opportunities for global engagement and professional development are abundant. You will be instrumental in shaping the company's public dialogue and contributing to its long-term success, connecting remotely with our client's strategic interests, including those in the region of East London , Eastern Cape.