External Communication Officer

The Air Traffic and Navigation Services Company Limited of South Africa (ATNS) provides air traffic services throughout the country and is responsible for the provision of the air traffic control and navigation system infrastructure

Job Description
The Air Traffic and Navigation Services Company Limited of South Africa (ATNS) provides air traffic services throughout the country and is responsible for the provision of the air traffic control and navigation system infrastructure necessary to ensure a safe and effective service.
Applications are invited for the following positions, based at Isando:

External Communication Officer

The successful applicant will be reporting to the Senior Manager: Marketing and Communications.

Major activities: * Handle the writing and editing of press material for the company * Act as a link between ATNS and the external stakeholders, eg industry organisations and broadcast and print media * Make the public aware of new products, services or events or update statistics or trends related to the company * Take information regarding ATNS and effectively communicate this to the media, aiming to highlight the company's strong points and reach a target audience * Maintain a database of media contacts * Write and distribute press releases and produce media kits * Invite the media to regional events and serve as onsite media contact * Initiate media opportunities, including on-air interviews and feature stories * Follow up on press releases * Travel may be required to promote the organisation through industry events and conferences.

Minimum qualifications: Bachelor's degree or diploma in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or Business.

Minimum experience: At least 5 years' related experience in public relations.

Skills and competencies: * Strong effective communicator, both written and verbal * A firm grasp of grammar and ability to put a positive spin on various aspects related to the company or client * Highly developed, demonstrated networking skills * Ability to co-ordinate the efforts of a team of diverse professionals/employees * Expert in Internet and social media strategy, with a demonstrated track record * Demonstrated effectiveness in holding conversations with stakeholders * Collaborative approach * Courteous, outgoing, organised and a capable problem-solver with strong typing and editorial abilities.

Interested applicants are requested to register their CVs and apply online at www.atns.co.za and click on ATNS Careers on or before 22 March 2011.
ATNS is an equal opportunity employer that strives to achieve a diverse workforce broadly representative of our people.
These positions will be filled in line with the objectives of ATNS' Employment Equity Plan and, therefore, candidates from designated groups, as per the Employment Equity Act of 1998, are encouraged to apply.