Career

Corporate Communication Manager Career in South Africa

Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.

OFO Code2021-243203
Trade occupationNo
Green occupationNo
Related qualifications0

Occupation overview

Develops and implements communication strategies and campaigns by writing and selecting favourable public material and various communications media.

What does a Corporate Communication Manager do?

A Corporate Communication Manager plans and coordinates how an organisation communicates with its employees, customers, the media, public institutions and other stakeholders. The work includes developing communication strategies and campaigns, preparing or selecting favourable content, choosing suitable communication channels and guiding communication activities across areas such as public relations, internal communication, public affairs and media liaison.

Specialisations

Account / Regional Director (Communications Consultancy)Account Manager (Communications Consultancy)Director Public Relations / Corporate Communications (Public Service)Fundraising DirectorManager Communications ManagementManager Corporate CommunicationsManager External / Internal Communication)Manager Public Affairs / RelationsMedia / Communication / Parliamentary / Liaison Practitioner (Government)

How to become a Corporate Communication Manager in South Africa

  1. Build strong writing, editing and presentation ability, with particular attention to clear and favourable public communication.
  2. Learn how different communication media can be selected and used for campaigns and organisational messaging.
  3. Develop practical experience creating communication material and supporting communication campaigns.
  4. Progress towards coordinating communication activities and taking responsibility for communication planning and implementation.
  5. Develop management capability through increasing responsibility for communication projects, teams or stakeholder relationships. Relevant education can support entry into the field, but management roles commonly also involve workplace progression and responsibility. Verify current education and provider options with SAQA, a relevant quality council, accredited providers or employers.

Edupstairs Preparation Guidance

There is no single universal qualification pathway established for this career. Preparation should focus on professional writing, campaign planning, media selection, public relations, internal and external communication, and managing relationships with stakeholders. The listed areas of specialisation also show that communication managers may work in consultancy, government, public affairs, fundraising, corporate communication or media liaison.

Useful school subjects

  • English
  • Business Studies
  • Computer Applications Technology
  • History

Skills that may help

  • Strategic communication planning
  • Writing and editing
  • Campaign development
  • Selecting appropriate communication media
  • Public relations and stakeholder communication
  • Internal and external communication
  • Media liaison
  • Team and project coordination

Related Careers

Data source: Career information is based on South Africa’s Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO) and Edupstairs career guidance. Employer, training and professional requirements may vary and should be confirmed with the relevant organisation.