Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint a qualified service provider to deliver Public Relations Management and Strategic Corporate Communication services to the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) on an “as and when” required basis for a maximum period of twelve (12) months. The aim is to support the NLC’s efforts in managing its public image, engaging stakeholders proactively, and ensuring accurate, timely, and consistent messaging aligned with its institutional reforms and modernization initiatives.

Scope of Work

The appointed service provider will support the execution of the NLC’s strategic communication objectives, including:

• Supporting Public Relations and Crisis Management aligned with the organization’s activities.
• Developing and implementing holding statements for identified issues.
• Covering all NLC programmes through media interviews and newsroom visits (at least two per quarter).
• Handling sensitive issues prior to public engagements such as Parliamentary sessions and media events.
• Engaging in reactive communication and managing media relations.
• Drafting, editing, and distributing opinion pieces/thought leadership articles (two per quarter).
• Supporting public engagements, stakeholder activities, and crisis events with appropriate messaging.

The scope also includes managing media relations, stakeholder engagement, and supporting the NLC’s modernization and repositioning efforts through strategic communication.

Technical Requirements

The service provider must:

• Support the execution of the NLC’s communication strategy across all programmes.
• Provide timely and effective media and stakeholder engagement, including newsroom visits and media interviews.
• Draft and distribute opinion pieces and thought leadership articles quarterly.
• Handle sensitive issues and crisis communication proactively and reactively.
• Support parliamentary engagements and media events with appropriate messaging.
• Ensure all deliverables are aligned with the NLC’s strategic objectives and turnaround goals.

Skills Requirements

The successful bidder must demonstrate:

• At least five (5) years of experience in public relations and strategic communication projects for large and reputable organizations, including government entities.
• Proven experience in media relations, crisis management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Capability to develop and implement strategic communication plans with clear activities, timelines, and responsibilities.
• Qualified personnel including a dedicated project manager and team leader with relevant experience:
• Project Manager: Minimum five (5) years of experience in public relations and strategic communication, with demonstrated leadership and organizational skills.
• Team Leader: Relevant qualification (Bachelor’s degree or higher) in Public Relations, Communications, Media Studies, or Journalism, with at least three (3) years of hands-on experience in public relations projects.
• Ability to produce high-quality content, including opinion pieces, media statements, speeches, and briefing notes.
• Strong understanding of the South African media landscape and stakeholder engagement practices.
• Experience in managing crisis communication and sensitive issues effectively.

All personnel involved must demonstrate relevant qualifications and experience, and the proposal must include a clear organizational structure with reporting lines and roles.