Operational Communications Specialist

**Introduction**

Through our client-facing brands Metropolitan and Momentum, with Multiply (wellness and rewards programme), and our other specialist brands, including Guardrisk and Eris Property Group, the group enables business and people from all walks of life to achieve their financial goals and life aspirations.

**Role Purpose**

The Communications Specialist will be instrumental in coordinating and managing the administrative aspects of our client communication strategy. This role will ensure the smooth execution of our messaging across various channels, conforming with our corporate identity and regulatory requirements.

**Requirements**:

- A degree in Communication, Business Administration, or related field.
- At least 4 years of experience in client communication operations, processes, and systems.
- Proven experience and track record in managing the operational aspects of communication strategy.
- Strong understanding of modern communication technology and tools.
- Knowledge and understanding of financial and investment principles will be an added advantage.

**Duties & Responsibilities**
- Coordinate the implementation of strategic communication plans tailored to various audiences.
- Ensure content across various platforms aligns with the company's strategy, corporate identity guidelines, and regulatory requirements.
- Collaborate with internal teams to ensure operational alignment across all departments.
- Maintain knowledge of the latest communication technology and trends to optimise communication models and processes.
- Coordinate with relevant stakeholders, both internal and external, to ensure consistent messaging and engagement.
- Monitor the effectiveness of operational aspects of communication strategies and make improvements as needed.
- Manage procurement, budget, data, testing, record keeping and reporting processes.
- Be pro-active and effective in managing and coordinating complex communication processes, including procurement, implementation, financial and budget management, data, record keeping and reporting.
- Source, clean, and scrub data effectively. This includes knowledge of data validation and data integrity checks, as well as experience with data management platforms and tools.
- Dealing with third-party vendors, including negotiation, management of service level agreements (SLAs), and ensuring vendor compliance with contractual obligations.
- Understanding of and adhering to data privacy laws and regulations around client communication, especially in the financial industry in South Africa, like the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPI Act).
- Responsible for identifying, troubleshoot, and resolve issues that arise during the course of a project.
- Responsible to collaborate, communicate effectively with different stakeholders, and build relationships across teams and functions.
- Exceptional attention to detail and organisational skills. Precision and thoroughness in handling and processing sensitive personal and financial data.

**Competencies**
- A high degree of proficiency in Excel is key. This would include complex formula creation, use of pivot tables, creation of macros, and 'if' statements to execute on client communication projects.
- Ability to effectively work with data, data management platforms and tools
- Proficiency in project management methodologies to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and manage resources efficiently.
- Working knowledge and experience with mail merge
- Be familiar with data privacy laws and regulations
- Collaboration and relationship building
- Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
- Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Able to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.