BONTLE BRENDA TSIKWE
Public Relations & Corporate Communications Professional
Midrand,GP
Summary
Results-driven Public Relations, Media Relations, Sponsorship PR and Corporate Communications professional with over 20 years of experience across ICT, professional services, FMCG, and trade industries. Skilled in strategic PR execution, media relations, brand storytelling, and reputation management. Adept at leading teams, crafting impactful messaging, and enhancing brand visibility. Passionate about delivering high-impact PR campaigns that align with business objectives and public perception goals.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
PR Consultant
Independent PR Consultant
05.2025 - Current
- Develop and implement tailored PR strategies for diverse clients.
- Manage end-to-end communications projects ensuring alignment with business objectives.
- Cultivate and sustain strong media relationships to secure high-impact coverage.
- Provide strategic counsel on reputation management, crisis communications, and stakeholder engagement.
- Conduct in-depth analysis and reporting on PR campaigns for ROI measurement.
- Clients: Huawei Corporate, Mr Price Foundation, Thungela
Business Director
The Grind PR (Group Africa Marketing)
09.2022 - 04.2025
- Drove PR and Media Relations initiatives for clients.
- Led and mentored a high-performing PR team for ROI-driven campaigns.
- Developed and managed PR strategy and storytelling to enhance visibility.
- Strengthened client relationships and ensured high-quality delivery.
- Identified new business opportunities, enhancing agency profitability.
- Optimised financial forecasting, planning and budget management.
- Clients: MTN SA, Standard Bank SA, Sasol, 10Bet
Senior PR Account Director
The Grind PR (Group Africa Marketing)
06.2018 - 08.2022
- Designed and implemented PR strategies aligned with client objectives.
- Managed client communications, briefings and strategy sessions.
- Led and mentored junior team members, ensuring successful campaigns.
- Developed content for media releases, speeches, and corporate messaging.
- Built strong media relationships securing positive press coverage.
- Oversaw budget planning for cost-effective campaign execution.
- Clients: MTN SA, Standard Bank SA
PR & Marketing Manager
Nkonki Incorporated
07.2017 - 05.2018
- Led crisis communication efforts during liquidation process.
- Crafted and managed press releases, speeches, and internal communications.
- Oversaw social media management for brand consistency.
- Managed corporate events and marketing initiatives.
- Administered PR and marketing budgets.
PR Manager (Consultant: Image & Reputation Management)
State Information Technology Agency (SITA)
01.2014 - 06.2017
- Developed corporate communication materials including editorials and advertorials.
- Managed media interviews and relations ensuring positive brand positioning.
- Collaborated with government entities on key PR initiatives.
- Provided CSR PR support for impactful messaging.
- Managed PR service providers and budgets.
Corporate Communications Coordinator
South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA)
10.2010 - 12.2013
- Managed corporate and media relations securing high-impact coverage.
- Produced internal newsletters and communication materials.
- Oversaw social media strategies driving member engagement.
- Organised corporate events and executive speaking engagements.
Account Manager
Redline Stakeholder Communications Agency (FCB SA)
09.2007 - 09.2010
- Designed and executed PR campaigns for high-profile clients.
- Led communication strategies aligning with business goals.
- Managed team operations ensuring smooth delivery.
- Secured positive media placements through strong press relations.
- Clients: Tiger Brands, Reach for a Dream, Vodacom (Bafana Bafana World Cup), Hyundai 1,000,000 Balls Campaign
PR Intern → Account Manager
ProTactic Strategic Communications
01.2002 - 08.2007
- Spearheaded PR campaigns enhancing brand awareness.
- Managed daily client interactions and relationship-building.
- Led event planning and execution.
- Supervised and mentored junior PR professionals.
- Clients: JW Thompson, Kellogg's SA, Cobra Taps, National Brands (Frisco), McCain, Petzetakis Africa, Murray & Roberts
Education
BA Honours (In Progress) - Integrated Organisational Communication
UNISA
02.2026
Advanced Diploma - Brand Innovation
Vega Pretoria
12.2016
BTech - Public Relations Management
University of Johannesburg
12.2007
NDip - Public Relations Management
Technikon Witwatersrand
12.2002
Grade 12 - undefined
Kimberley Girls' High School
12.1998
Skills
Strategic Content Development
Public & Media Relations
Crisis & Reputation Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Internal Communication & Thought Leadership
Budget Forecasting & Management
Team Leadership & Mentorship
Editorial & Professional Writing
Corporate Communications Strategy
Governance & Compliance
Timeline
PR Consultant
Independent PR Consultant
05.2025 - Current
Business Director
The Grind PR (Group Africa Marketing)
09.2022 - 04.2025
Senior PR Account Director
The Grind PR (Group Africa Marketing)
06.2018 - 08.2022
PR & Marketing Manager
Nkonki Incorporated
07.2017 - 05.2018
PR Manager (Consultant: Image & Reputation Management)
State Information Technology Agency (SITA)
01.2014 - 06.2017
Corporate Communications Coordinator
South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA)
10.2010 - 12.2013
Account Manager
Redline Stakeholder Communications Agency (FCB SA)
09.2007 - 09.2010
PR Intern → Account Manager
ProTactic Strategic Communications
01.2002 - 08.2007
Advanced Diploma - Brand Innovation
Vega Pretoria
BTech - Public Relations Management
University of Johannesburg
NDip - Public Relations Management
Technikon Witwatersrand
Grade 12 - undefined
Kimberley Girls' High School
BA Honours (In Progress) - Integrated Organisational Communication
UNISA