Social Media Specialist (Consultant)

Role Overview The Social Media Specialist will be responsible for planning, executing, monitoring, and optimising paid and organic social media campaigns across multiple platforms. The ideal candidate must have a strong grasp of content creation, multimedia design, digital reputation management, and live event coverage. This role also includes supporting digital creatives and working closely with client-side teams to ensure capacity-building and skills transfer. Key responsibilities 1. Digital and creatives Develop and place digital banners and web assets as required. Create multimedia content including messaging, visual design, motion graphics, short-form videos, audio content, and animations aligned with client campaigns. Implement urgent content changes on client digital platforms within 24 hours of notification. 2. Social media strategy and management Work with client-identified CME (communication, marketing and events) resources to co-develop and implement a skills transfer plan . Develop platform-specific social media strategies (LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram) tailored to campaign objectives. Design content calendars that align with brand tone and messaging while fostering audience interaction and engagement. 3. Content creation and community management Produce engaging, on-brand content for always-on social media and campaign-specific initiatives. Monitor and manage social media accounts, responding to community queries and comments within the agreed turnaround times. Ensure continuous communication to grow community engagement and brand affinity. 4. Online reputation management and crisis PR Conduct daily social listening and sentiment tracking to flag opportunities and threats. Develop and implement online reputation management and crisis communication protocols across digital platforms. 5. Live coverage and event support Manage pre-event and live event publicity , including content build-up, live tweeting, posting, and community interaction during select client events. Work with event teams to boost audience participation and social reach in real time. 6. Performance monitoring and reporting Track KPIs, engagement metrics, and community feedback to assess performance. Identify challenges or negative trends early and communicate them to the client (e.g., DBSA) within the agreed timeframe. Deliver periodic performance reports with actionable insights and recommendations. Required qualifications and experience Diploma or degree in digital marketing, communication, multimedia design, or related field. 3-5 years experience in social media management and digital campaign execution, preferably within an agency or consulting environment. Proficiency in digital content tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, CapCut, Meta Business Suite, Hootsuite). Experience with paid media management on Meta, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Demonstrated ability to manage online reputation and execute social listening reports. Experience working with public sector clients and understanding of government communication protocols (an advantage). Key competencies Creative thinker with strong design and writing skills. Agile and deadline-driven with the ability to juggle multiple campaigns. Excellent communicator and collaborator. Strong attention to detail and brand alignment. Crisis communication savvy and culturally sensitive. Contract details Fixed-term contract (duration dependent on client project timelines). May involve travel and on-site presence for key events. Must be available to implement urgent changes and live event coverage as needed. To apply: Send your CV, portfolio (including campaign samples and content examples), and a brief motivation letter to info@ritogroup.africa with the subject line: Social Media Specialist Consultant Application - [Your Name]