At IBM, we believe technology shapes the world, and we are a catalyst for that innovation and creativity. We are on the forefront of groundbreaking change – improving businesses, society, and the human condition. As a leader in Hybrid Cloud and AI, we are leading the charge in a world-wide digital transformation.
Our Marketing, Communications & Corporate Social Responsibility (MCC) team tells this story and is responsible for positioning IBM in the market. We define and optimize IBM’s brand, capture the market’s attention, and articulate our point of view for clients, partners, the media, and even other IBMers. As part of our team, you'll be surrounded by bright minds and keen collaborators – always willing to help and be helped – as you apply passion to work that will compel our audience to choose IBM.
When you join IBM, you join a culture of openness, collaboration, and trust. You join a team of IBMers who are helping technology support a positive global transformation. So join us and experience a place where you can co-create your learning and opportunities. A place where teamwork and unique ideas are treasured. A place where you can bring innovation to life.
This South Africa-based Communications role serves as the voice of IBM to key stakeholders—including clients, employees, media, analysts, partners, and sellers—while also bringing valuable local insights back into the business.
As the local communications lead, you are responsible for developing and executing integrated internal and external communications strategies that support IBM’s brand, reputation, and business growth across the MEA region. You ensure IBM’s messaging is relevant, consistent, and aligned with both regional market needs and global objectives. As a cross communications leader you will need to manage the following:
I. External Communications
- Develop and execute an integrated external communications strategy aligned with both regional and global business goals.
- Localize global messaging to ensure cultural and market relevance across the African region.
- Build and sustain strong relationships with local and regional media, journalists, and social influencers.
- Drive proactive media engagement, coordinate interviews, and manage media events to elevate the company’s visibility and reputation.
- Maintain effective communication with key external stakeholders including partners, industry bodies, regulators, and government organizations.
- Support strategic advocacy and thought leadership initiatives.
- Serve as a content expert by developing compelling messaging for press releases, executive bylines, blogs, and social media.
- Manage and optimize external communication channels
- Lead crisis communications planning and execution.
- Act as a key contact during unforeseen issues to protect and manage the company’s reputation in the market.
- Maintain a solid understanding of the African business landscape, socio-political climate, and cultural nuances to ensure effective communication strategies.
II. Internal Communications
- Develop and implement an internal communications strategy that supports employee alignment with company goals across South Africa and the broader MEA region.
- Lead the creation and delivery of internal content across multiple channels
- Drive initiatives that foster employee engagement, inclusivity, and a collaborative company culture across MEA.
- Support regional executives with speechwriting, presentation development, and talking points for internal events, town halls, and all-hands meetings.
- Coordinate logistics and communication for key internal events across the region.
- Track and analyze the effectiveness of internal communications using KPIs and employee feedback mechanisms.
- Continuously refine strategies based on data-driven insights.
- Strong communications expertise, with proven experience in both internal and external communication strategies within the tech or IT sector.
- Fluency in English, with excellent verbal and written communication skills tailored for business, media, and employee audiences.
- Demonstrated ability to develop clear, consistent messaging across multiple channels and audiences, ensuring alignment with brand voice and business goals.
- Experience designing and executing integrated communications plans in the IT or B2B tech industry, supporting business growth and brand reputation.
- Ability to work collaboratively across cross-functional and multicultural teams, including marketing, HR, sales, and executive leadership.
- Proven agility in aligning to business objectives and adapting communications strategies in response to changing market or internal priorities.
- Skilled in preparing clear, concise communication briefs and content for stakeholders, media, partners, and internal audiences.
- Proficiency in French and/or Arabic is an asset.