Manager, Strategic Communications / Corporate Communications

JOB SUMMARY

The Manager of Strategic Communications at PayNet is responsible for shaping and protecting the organisation’s reputation through proactive public relations, integrated media engagement, strategic messaging, and digital amplification. This role leads the development and execution of strategic communication plans that enhance PayNet’s corporate visibility, ensure alignment across internal and external messaging, and support thought leadership positioning. The role also oversees social media strategy and integration, ensuring PayNet maintains a consistent and credible voice across all platforms.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Communications & Messaging

• Develop and implement corporate communication strategies to strengthen PayNet’s brand presence and reputation.
• Craft core messages, speeches, Q&As, and statements that support corporate objectives and reflect brand values.

Media Relations

• Cultivate strong relationships with key media, industry publications, and influencers.
• Act as a liaison with the media, prepare spokespeople for interviews, and manage media outreach for events and announcements.

Content Development

• Lead the creation of compelling and accurate content including press releases, thought leadership articles, op-eds, video scripts, and corporate speeches.
• Guide the tone and positioning of PayNet’s public-facing narratives.

Crisis & Issues Management

• Support the Director in developing and activating crisis communication playbooks.
• Manage reputational risks through timely, strategic, and coordinated messaging responses.

Social Media Oversight

• Devise and execute innovative social media strategies to bolster brand awareness and engagement across diverse platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
• Oversee PayNet’s social media content calendar, ensuring digital messages align with overall brand and corporate priorities.
• Monitor sentiment, trends, and emerging conversations that impact brand reputation.

Publicity & Engagement

• Lead communication plans for campaigns, events, and corporate initiatives including media briefings, panel appearances, or editorial placements.

Monitoring & Insights

• Measure the effectiveness of communication strategies, track media coverage and social media performance, and optimise for impact.
• Use insights to fine-tune message positioning and outreach efforts.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Align messaging with key internal divisions and external partners including regulators, government stakeholders, and industry groups.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Manage a small team or agency partners, provide editorial direction, and mentor junior team members.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure a unified narrative.

Market Intelligence

• Stay current on financial, technology, and regulatory trends to shape forward-looking narratives and support thought leadership.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or related field.
• At least 12–15 years of experience in strategic communications, PR, or corporate affairs, preferably within financial services, fintech, or a regulated environment.
• Proven track record in developing and executing media relations strategies, managing reputational issues, and creating high-impact content.
• Strong understanding of the Malaysian media landscape and regulatory sensitivities.

SKILLS & PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Strategic and Inquisitive: Approaches challenges with curiosity, connecting the dots and asking the right questions to build thoughtful, forward-looking communication strategies.
• Clear and Confident Communicator: Articulates complex ideas with clarity, whether in writing or speech. Tailors messages to diverse audiences while staying grounded in PayNet’s voice and purpose.
• Media-Savvy and Trustworthy: Maintains strong, respectful relationships with the media. Acts with integrity and sound judgement in all public engagements, especially in high-stakes scenarios.
• Digitally Fluent: Brings a sharp understanding of the social media and digital landscape, and leverages platforms to shape narratives with creativity and discipline.
• Resilient and Composed: Navigates pressure and ambiguity with grit, staying calm and solution-oriented during reputational issues or crises.
• Collaborative and Humble: Works well across teams, embracing feedback and diverse viewpoints. Builds trust through consistency, reliability, and mutual respect.
• Purpose-Driven and Accountable: Holds self and others to high standards. Delivers outcomes with aspiration, while remaining transparent and ethical in all actions.
• Continuously Improving: Seeks new insights, benchmarks, and practices to sharpen communications impact and elevate the organisation’s voice in the industry.