Job Description

Who we are?

Sanlam Investments Cluster

At Sanlam Investments, we're not just one of South Africa's leading black-owned asset managers, we're agents of change - adapting to our clients' needs and bringing financial independence to all South Africans.
Our sustainable solutions protect the planet, empower communities, and secure a prosperous future for generations to come.

There's something to be said for leaving a legacy. Are you ready to start creating yours? Join our team and be part of building a future we need.

Senior Communications Specialist/Manager - Sanlam Investments

We are recruiting for a Senior Communications Specialist/Communications Manager to join an existing team of Communications superstars. A team responsible for strategically differentiating Sanlam Investments, positioning it as a purpose-led sustainability asset manager because sustainability is at the heart of what we do. It runs deep within our core, infusing purpose into every living investment we create.

Reporting directly to the Head of Communications the successful candidate will have a passion and desire for writing with either experience of Investment / technical writing or an aptitude and interest for Investments.
You will have demonstratable experience of working at a senior level in a communications environment ideally within a Financial Services organiszation where you have contributed to developing a multi-channel communication strategy.
You will be well versed across the communications spectrum including, corporate communication, Investor relations, PR, internal communications, social media, reputation management and client communications. You will be technically competent and have demonstrable experience in strategy development.

What will you do?

Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Conceptualise, plan, implement and monitor internal and/or external communications programmes with the objective of influencing the perceptions of targeted stakeholders and enhancing the image and reputation.
• Conceptualise opportunities and communications campaigns to support Distribution go-to-market strategies.
• Support the formulation of internal and external (including client facing) communication strategies and the development of an annual communication plan.
• Apply an integrated communications approach by using the relevant communications channels to enhance the communications mix and drive value.
• Demonstrate investment knowledge and understanding of how to apply this in a communications environment to generate copy accurately and creatively - in collaboration with the greater Communications and Marketing team.
• Generate or edit copy; for, but not limited to, owned digital platforms such as social media and web, internal communications, PR & media, client channels and external facing annual/biannual reports. This involves working closely with multiple points of contact across the business, including portfolio managers, investment teams, client groups, client operations and marketing.
• Measure, monitor and strategically report on Communications activities.
• Evaluate and measure the effectiveness of communications programs and understand how to use the data for continuous improvement.

What will make you successful in this role?

Minimum Requirements:

• Exceptional writing and editing skills with a strong command of the English language is essential.
• Investments writing experience is preferred.
• The ability to produce new content or edit existing investment copy for a range of different audiences, across many different platforms is essential.
• At least seven years' experience as a Communications professional (public relations, corporate affairs, journalism, investor relations, business management, etc.) with demonstrated success in a communications role in Financial Services - preferably Asset Management.
• Degree, preferably at a post graduate level in Communications, Public Relations, Corporate Communications, Marketing Communications, Investor Relations, Communications Strategy or similar, with a major in English.
• A qualification in, or working knowledge of Financial Markets, Economics or similar would be preferred, although not essential.

Technical Competencies:

• Strategy development.
• Ability to apply creative acumen to written and visual concepts.
• Strong decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work with people at all levels across the company.
• Agency management.
• A very high degree of customer orientation as well as a clearly developed ability for working in a team, with a clear result-oriented focus.
• An entrepreneurial spirit which is essential for picking up new projects.
• Ability to proactively identify communication opportunities.
• Proven experience in coordinating media activities within the financial services industry.
• Excellent organisational skills, team-oriented attitude, ability to meet deadlines and prioritise tasks from multiple sources.
• Excellent writing, editing and oral communication skills; experience writing in clear journalistic style.
• Good understanding of digital communication tools and the optimisation thereof.
• Understanding and knowledge of asset management industry as well as project management experience would be advantages.

Behavioral Competencies:

• Energetic and flexible.
• A meticulous team player and proactive individual who is results driven.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
• Excellent co-ordination and organisational skills.
• Deadline driven with the ability to handle multiple priorities while maintaining a high standard of work.
• Ability to work within a fast paced and pressurised environment.
• A high performing, driven individual.
• Values and culture orientated.
• Flexible, collaborative, and adaptable.

Build a successful career with us

We're all about building strong, lasting relationships with our employees. We know that you have hopes for your future - your career, your personal development and of achieving great things. We pride ourselves in helping our employees to realise their worth. Through its four business clusters - Sanlam Life and Savings, Sanlam Investment Group, Sanlam Emerging Markets, Santam, as well as MiWay and the Group Office - the group provides many opportunities for growth and development.

Preference will be given to EE candidates in accordance with the Investment Cluster employment policies.

Turnaround time

The shortlisting process will only start once the application due date has been reached. The time taken to complete this process will depend on how far you progress and the availability of managers.

The Sanlam Group is committed to achieving transformation and embraces diversity. This commitment is what drives us to achieve a diverse, inclusive and equitable workplace as we believe that these are key components to ensure a thriving and sustainable business in South Africa. The Group's Employment Equity plan and targets will be considered as part of the selection process.

Sanlam