Communications Manager – Africa Franchise, Ethiopia

Overview
PepsiCo Africa is one of the fastest-growing regions in our global portfolio, spanning 50+ diverse markets. We're seeking a strategic storyteller and reputation builder to lead communications across internal and external platforms. This role is pivotal in shaping narratives that inspire employees, engage stakeholders, and strengthen our corporate reputation in a dynamic, high-growth environment.

Why This Role Matters
In today's digital-first world, communications is more than messaging—it's about influencing perception, driving engagement, and safeguarding reputation. You'll be the voice of PepsiCo in Africa, crafting narratives that resonate across cultures and channels, from executive positioning and crisis management to social impact storytelling and brand PR.

Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership
• Develop and execute a multi-channel communications strategy aligned with SSA's growth and transformation agenda.
• Internal Communications
• Oversee internal communications to foster alignment and engagement across geographies, partnering with HR and business leaders to drive culture, inclusion, and change initiatives.
• Amplify PepsiCo's employer brand and employee stories to strengthen pride and attract talent across SSA.
• External Communications
• Manage media relations, press kits, and proactive storytelling to enhance brand visibility.
• Lead crisis communications and reputation management initiatives.
• Digital & Social Media
• Drive content strategy for SSA's digital platforms, leveraging data-driven insights for engagement.
• Executive & Brand PR
• Own and execute the organization's holistic reputation strategy, serving as a critical bridge between internal operations and the external world, with a mandate to deliver extensive Brand PR leadership that shapes public narrative, protects corporate image, and commercially amplifies key product initiatives.
• Craft compelling narratives for C-suite leaders and major brand campaigns.
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Collaborate with bottling partners, agencies, and global teams to deliver high-impact campaigns.
• Events & Advocacy
• Execute strategic events and support PPGA advocacy programs on sustainability, health, and social impact.

Qualifications
Experience:

• 5+ years in corporate communications within a global brand (Fortune 100/500 preferred).
• Proven success in executive communications, crisis management, and media relations.

Education:

• Required (Minimum): Bachelor's degree in communication, Journalism, Public Relations (PR), Media Studies, or Marketing.
• Highly Preferred (Ideal): Post-Graduate Diploma or master's degree (MA/MBA) in Corporate Communication, Business Management, or Strategic Marketing.
• Helpful (Certification): Relevant professional certifications from local bodies (e.g., PRISA) or global platforms, particularly in Digital Communication, Crisis Management, or ESG/Sustainability Reporting.

Skills:

• Native-level English fluency (written and spoken).
• Strong project management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Expertise in digital storytelling, social media strategy, and cross-cultural communication.

Mindset:

• Strategic thinker with agility to adapt in fast-paced environments.
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders and build authentic relationships.

Bonus:

• Knowledge of Africa's socio-political landscape
• Experience with franchise bottling operations
• Local African languages and cultural acumen

Key Competencies:

• Strategic agility and ability to connect the dots across complex initiatives.
• High emotional intelligence and interpersonal effectiveness.
• Resilience and adaptability in high-pressure environments.
• Growth mindset and willingness to travel across SSA markets.

Current Trends Incorporated:

• Digital-first approach: Emphasis on social media, analytics, and AI-driven personalization.
• Inclusive communication: Ability to craft messages that resonate across diverse cultures.
• Crisis readiness: Proactive reputation management in volatile markets.
• Data-driven storytelling: Using insights to measure and amplify impact.