Advertising and Public Relations Manager Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Plans, organises, directs, controls and coordinates the advertising and public relations activities of an organisation.
What does a Advertising and Public Relations Manager do?
An Advertising and Public Relations Manager leads how an organisation presents itself to the public. The role combines advertising, corporate communication, media relations and stakeholder engagement to support the organisation’s reputation, relationships and promotional objectives. Depending on the workplace, the role may focus on advertising, public relations, media and communications, corporate relations or relationship management.
Specialisations
Alternative job titles
How to become a Advertising and Public Relations Manager in South Africa
- Build a foundation in communication, business and marketing-related knowledge at school.
- Consider a relevant South African qualification such as the Further Education and Training Certificate: Public Relations Practice (SAQA ID 71729, NQF Level 4), the National Certificate: Public Relations and Business Communication (SAQA ID 16205, NQF Level 4), or the Further Education and Training Certificate: Public Administration Management (SAQA ID 58346, NQF Level 4).
- Higher-level options include the National Certificate: Public Relations Management (SAQA ID 114795, NQF Level 5) and the National Higher Certificate in Public Relations (SAQA ID 114743, NQF Level 5).
- Develop practical experience in advertising, public relations, communications, media or stakeholder relations.
- Progress into roles with increasing responsibility for planning, coordinating and directing communication or advertising activities. Relevant education can support entry into the field, while management roles commonly also involve workplace progression and responsibility.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
Choose a pathway that matches your interests, such as public relations, business communication, advertising or corporate communication. Strengthen your ability to plan campaigns, communicate with different audiences, coordinate activities and manage an organisation’s public image. Before enrolling, confirm current qualification, provider and assessment details with SAQA or an appropriate accredited provider.
Useful school subjects
- English
- Business Studies
- Economics
- Accounting
- Computer Applications Technology
- History
Skills that may help
- Written and verbal communication
- Planning and coordination
- Public relations and stakeholder engagement
- Advertising and promotional thinking
- Media and communication management
- Organisational and leadership skills
- Relationship-building
- Reputation and corporate image awareness