Sappi Southern Africa
About Sappi:
Sappi is a global leader in producing everyday materials from woodfibre-based renewable resources. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, Sappi drives the circular economy by prioritizing sustainable processes and products.
Job Description: We are seeking an experienced Government and Community Relations Specialist to join our Corporate Affairs team. In this role, you will be instrumental in building and managing relationships with various stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and external groups. Your responsibilities will include promoting Sappi’s initiatives, fostering positive relationships, and addressing community concerns.
Responsibilities:
- Implement stakeholder engagement strategies aligned with predefined outcomes set by the Stakeholder Relations Lead.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with provincial, local government officials, and traditional leaders to enhance Sappi’s corporate reputation.
- Lead community meetings and forums to ensure stakeholders are well-informed about company activities, including recruitment, social impact programs, and procurement processes.
- Develop and deliver presentations on Sappi’s shared value approach and social impact initiatives, encouraging community involvement.
- Collaborate with internal teams (communications, operations, marketing) to promote government and community initiatives through various communication channels.
- Participate in and advise on the resolution of community issues, ensuring alignment with legal and practical considerations.
- Contribute to stakeholder engagement reports, documenting issues raised and resolutions achieved.
- Ensure messaging with community stakeholders aligns with Sappi’s shared value focus.
- Support the implementation of social impact programs and initiatives at the local level.
- Draft and distribute various communications materials to promote the company and its initiatives.
- Represent Sappi at local events and activities to build relationships with key community members.
- Manage and maintain a stakeholder database, including information on issues, relationships, and stakeholder sentiment.
- Prepare and contribute to monthly reports on community engagement and government relations initiatives.
- Assist with monthly reporting to community structures regarding local involvement.
Requirements:
- NQF6 qualification (National Diploma/Degree) in Public Relations, Communications, Government Affairs, or related field.
- Minimum of eight (8) years of experience in community relations or government affairs.
- Experience in managing and analyzing stakeholder data.
What’s in it for you?
- Opportunity to work within a global organization with over 80 years of industry leadership.
- Learning and development programs designed to accelerate your career within Sappi.
- Competitive leave and employee wellbeing benefits.
- Sappi is committed to diversity and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We encourage and support vaccination.
How to Apply:
To apply for this position, please visit our careers page here.
This revised version captures the essence of the job posting, including key details about the role, responsibilities, company background, and benefits, structured in a clear and informative manner.
To apply for this job please visit careers.sappi.com.
