About Company
BRALIMA, a proud subsidiary of The HEINEKEN Company, has been a cornerstone of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s beverage industry for over a century. With a rich heritage dating back to 1923, we are committed to brewing quality beers and producing refreshing soft drinks that bring people together across the nation. Our operations in Matadi are crucial to our national distribution network, leveraging the city’s strategic port location. We are not just a beverage company; we are an integral part of the Congolese community, actively investing in local talent, sustainable practices, and socio-economic development initiatives. Our diverse portfolio of brands is enjoyed by millions, and our commitment to excellence, innovation, and responsible business practices defines who we are. Joining BRALIMA means becoming part of a dynamic team dedicated to crafting beloved brands and making a positive impact on society. We foster an inclusive culture where every voice is valued, and opportunities for growth are abundant.
Job Description
Are you a skilled communications professional with a passion for shaping public perception and managing media relations? BRALIMA is seeking a dynamic and proactive Communications Specialist to join our team in Matadi, Kongo-Central Province. This pivotal role will be responsible for enhancing our brand reputation, managing press inquiries, and developing engaging media strategies that align with BRALIMA’s corporate objectives and values. The ideal candidate will be a creative storyteller, an excellent writer, and possess a deep understanding of the local media landscape in the DRC. You will play a crucial role in crafting compelling narratives, coordinating press events, and ensuring consistent messaging across all external communication channels. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to a leading company’s public image and engage with diverse stakeholders in a vibrant and challenging environment. We are looking for someone who can thrive under pressure, adapt to fast-paced situations, and demonstrate exceptional judgment in managing sensitive information. If you’re ready to make a tangible impact and elevate our communications efforts, positioning BRALIMA as a responsible and innovative leader, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement comprehensive media relations strategies to promote BRALIMA's brand, products, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
- Act as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, coordinating interviews, and preparing company spokespersons with key messages and briefing materials.
- Draft and meticulously edit press releases, media advisories, speeches, articles, and other public relations materials tailored for various media channels.
- Monitor media coverage across traditional and digital platforms, analyze trends, and prepare insightful reports on PR effectiveness and brand perception.
- Organize and manage successful press conferences, media tours, product launches, and other promotional events in Matadi and surrounding areas.
- Cultivate and maintain strong, positive relationships with key journalists, editors, bloggers, and media outlets at local, regional, and national levels.
- Collaborate seamlessly with internal teams (marketing, HR, CSR, legal) to ensure consistent messaging and integrated communication efforts across all touchpoints.
- Assist in proactive and reactive crisis communication management, preparing statements, coordinating responses, and maintaining transparency in sensitive situations.
- Stay continuously informed about industry trends, competitor activities, public sentiment, and regulatory changes to proactively identify communication opportunities and mitigate potential risks.
- Manage and update the company's comprehensive media database and contact lists, ensuring accuracy and relevance.
Required Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a closely related field.
- Minimum of 4 years of progressive experience in media relations, public relations, or corporate communications.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in French and Lingala are mandatory; proficiency in Swahili or Kikongo is a significant asset.
- Demonstrated ability to craft compelling narratives, persuasive messages, and engaging content for diverse audiences and platforms.
- Strong understanding of the Democratic Republic of Congo's media landscape, including traditional and burgeoning digital platforms.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and practical experience with media monitoring and analytics tools.
- Excellent interpersonal skills with a proven ability to build rapport and foster collaborative relationships with journalists, stakeholders, and internal teams.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a dynamic team in a fast-paced, sometimes high-pressure environment.
- Strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Communications, Public Relations, or Business Administration.
- Previous experience working in the consumer goods, food & beverage, or manufacturing industry.
- Proven track record of orchestrating successful media campaigns, securing positive coverage, and effectively managing crisis communications.
- Experience with digital PR strategies, social media management, and basic content creation (e.g., video editing, graphic design for social media).
- Familiarity with graphic design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) for producing basic visual communication materials.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health insurance package for you and your dependents.
- Enrollment in a robust retirement savings plan.
- Extensive opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career growth within BRALIMA and the wider HEINEKEN Company.
- A dynamic, inclusive, and collaborative work environment that values diversity and innovation.
- Access to employee assistance programs offering support for personal and professional well-being.
- Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and national holidays.
- Employee discounts on a wide range of BRALIMA products.
- Company-sponsored social events and community engagement activities.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their application by clicking the link below. Please ensure your resume comprehensively highlights your relevant experience in media relations and communications, and that your cover letter articulates why you are the ideal candidate for this role at BRALIMA. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications and potentially welcoming you to our team.