Communications Officer @British Embassy in South Africa

British Embassy in South Africa Hiring Communications Officer (Cape Town) – Join the UK’s Diplomatic Mission

The British Embassy in South Africa is seeking a talented Communications Officer to join the British High Commission’s dynamic Communications Team in Cape Town.

Job Title: Communications Officer
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Closing Date: 3 July 2026
Contract: Permanent, Grade: Executive Officer (EO)
Working Hours: 36.5 hours per week
Start Date: 1 August 2026

The successful candidate will play a key role in promoting UK-South Africa bilateral relations across various sectors, including climate change, gender equality, trade, and cultural exchange.

This role offers an exciting opportunity for a creative, digitally savvy professional to develop and deliver engaging content that highlights the UK’s partnership with South Africa.

About the Role

The Communications Officer will be responsible for creating compelling digital content, managing media relationships, and supporting strategic communication campaigns aligned with UK government priorities.

Based at the British Consulate in Cape Town, the role reports to the UK in South Africa Communications Team led from Pretoria.

The role involves working closely with internal and external stakeholders, including journalists, partners, and high-profile visitors.

Key Responsibilities

Content Development & Media Engagement

• Translate policy and campaign objectives into engaging digital and media content
• Capture high-quality photography and videography at events and site visits

• Develop human stories and case studies from UK-supported projects
• Draft press releases, media lines, and other communication materials

Digital & Social Media Management

• Create and publish social media content to increase reach and impact
• Design multimedia assets including videos, graphics, and digital banners

• Support social media community management and engagement
• Monitor and evaluate digital performance and audience engagement

Strategic Communication Support

• Assist in planning and executing communication strategies for ministerial visits and events
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists, influencers, and partner organizations

• Monitor media coverage and produce media reports for internal use
• Maintain media contact databases and respond to press inquiries

Candidate Profile

Essential Skills & Qualifications

• Proven experience in media, journalism, or communications
• Strong writing, editing, and content creation skills in English
• Practical skills in photography, videography, and digital content production

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and work independently
• Knowledge of South African media landscape and social media trends
• Experience using monitoring and evaluation tools for digital insights

Desirable Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in brand management and digital marketing tools
• Knowledge of PR and media relations in South Africa

Behaviours & Competencies

• Excellent communication and influencing skills
• Ability to deliver results swiftly and efficiently
• Collaborative team player with a proactive approach

Benefits & Perks

• Learning and development opportunities, including digital communications training from the FCDO London
• Access to UK Government Communication Service training

• Full coverage of Key Care Plus health insurance for staff and dependants
• 9% pension contribution after probation
• 25 days annual leave
• Competitive salary of ZAR 436,075.16 annually

Application Process

Candidates must complete the application form thoroughly and submit by the deadline. The British High Commission emphasizes the importance of originality and honesty in applications.

Apply Here: UK Embassy South Africa Communications Officer Application

Successful candidates will undergo security checks and reference verification. Applicants must already have the legal right to work in South Africa.

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to UK diplomacy in South Africa, promoting UK interests and fostering strong bilateral relations.

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