Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic
Ntombizodwa Ruth Kobuwe

Ntombizodwa Ruth Kobuwe

Chartered Public Relations Practitioner (CPRP)
Centurion

Summary

Seasoned Chartered Public Relations Practitioner with an intense passion for Communication and Marketing with experience in improving awareness of organisational programmes through effective communication and marketing strategies. Proficient in communication best practices and management abilities. Communication professional with a proven track record of crafting impactful messaging across diverse platforms. Skilled in developing and implementing integrated communication strategies that align with organizational goals and enhance stakeholder engagement.

Overview

24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Language

Work History

Manager: Marketing and Stakeholder Relations

Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC)
03.2023 - Current

Strategic Communication

  • Conceptualised and developed the OHSC Integrated Marketing Communication Strategy, which was approved by the Board.
  • Oversaw the successful implementation of the strategy, aligning communication efforts with organisational goals and enhancing stakeholder engagement.
  • Directed impactful public awareness campaigns that significantly increased visibility and understanding of key compliance messages.
  • Enhanced internal communications by introducing a regular internal newsflash, improving staff engagement and the timeliness of internal messaging.

Content Development

  • Crafted high-level communication material including speeches, speaking notes, strategic concepts, and media statements for the CEO, COO, Health Ombud, and other executives to support consistent and effective messaging.

Brand Management

  • Initiated and implemented a branding and visibility programme across health facilities to strengthen the OHSC’s presence and support public awareness of patient rights and regulatory accountability.

Stakeholder Relations and Management

  • Cultivated and maintained strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, including government entities, peer regulators, and media, to support collaborative communication efforts.
  • Designed and executed internal stakeholder perception surveys, using insights to refine messaging, enhance stakeholder confidence, and build institutional trust.
  • Coordinated stakeholder webinars, facilitating dialogue between internal staff, management, and external sector partners to improve transparency and engagement.

Media and Public Relations

  • Drafted strategic media statements, securing national media coverage—particularly around high-profile Health Ombud investigations (e.g., Helen Joseph Hospital, Motherwell NU Clinic).
  • Proactively managed media relations, ensuring timely responses to media queries and sustained positive media presence.

Digital and Social Media

  • Expanded the organisation’s digital reach by increasing social media engagement and follower growth.
  • Elevated the entity’s digital footprint through the regular publication of relevant, informative content across platforms.

FREELANCER: COMMUNICATIONS, MARKETING, EVENTS AND

Motion Colour Pixels
11.2019 - 03.2023
  • Enhanced client satisfaction by delivering high-quality Marketing and Communication concepts and strategies work within deadlines.
  • Adapted quickly to changing project requirements, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability under pressure.
  • Managed multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining a high level of attention to detail and organization.
  • Enhanced brand visibility by designing and executing innovative marketing campaigns across multiple digital platforms.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure cohesive branding and marketing strategies across all client channels.
  • Managed social media ad campaigns, achieving higher conversion rates and engaging more effectively with target audiences.
  • Produced comprehensive analytics reports for clients, highlighting successes and areas for improvement in their digital strategies.
  • Negotiated with vendors and suppliers to reduce costs, maximizing project budgets for better resource allocation.
  • Streamlined client communication processes, resulting in more efficient project timelines and increased client trust.
  • Created and managed project plans, timelines and budgets.

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION OFFICER

State Diamond Trader
05.2017 - 05.2019
  • Organized successful trade show exhibits, ensuring professional representation of the company at industry events.
  • Monitored marketing analytics to identify trends, adjust strategies as needed, and maximize return on investment.
  • Produced impeccable marketing copy for website and social media outlets, writing and editing large quantities of content.
  • Planned memorable corporate events that fostered team-building opportunities while promoting a positive company culture internally and externally.
  • Led team of successful marketing professionals in designing promotional materials and outlining company vision.
  • Supervised marketing plans and actions for product launches, public relations tasks, and trade shows.
  • Liaised with the Operations Manager to manage and deliver marketing and communications plans.
  • Networked with industry professionals from different companies and partner agencies to discover unprecedented marketing solutions for both domestic and international markets and audiences.
  • Built and led strong presentations to promote products and build brand recognition.
  • Built and facilitated design of websites and other online promotional material, supporting strategic brand placement and visibility.
  • Monitored corporate social media accounts and leveraged community support to promote brand and products.
  • Managed media relations for organizations to produce successful results.
  • Conducted media relations and responded to media requests for information.
  • Managed public relations initiatives with writing, researching and preparation of materials
  • Used various social media platforms for media and outreach initiatives.
  • Engaged in professional networking to maintain strong relationships with communications and media professionals to drive partnerships and effective dissemination of mass communications.
  • Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to identify key messages and create compelling content for press releases and other materials.
  • Developed and implemented social media strategy to increase engagement and reach new audiences.
  • Produced and distributed brochures, newsletters and press kits.
  • Drafted press releases detailing relevant newsworthy information and supporting brand image, and worked with news media to spread positions.
  • Prepared or edited organizational publications such as employee newsletters, legislated reports for internal or external audiences.
  • Coordinated media interviews with organization staff, board members and volunteers.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with media representatives to secure widespread coverage and feature stories.
  • Managed public relations efforts by building strong relationships with media outlets and securing positive coverage for the organization.
  • Improved overall brand positioning in the marketplace by refining messaging strategy across all communication channels.

DEPUTY DIRECTOR: MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGEMENT

Department of Mineral Resources (DMR)
05.2011 - 04.2017


  • Developed marketing and communication strategic plans to achieve organizational goals, ensuring alignment with company''s mission and vision.
  • Managed the enhancement of the Department's image by ensuring effective communication and awareness of the Department's strategic objectives, mandate, and programmes
  • Managed Events Management Activities
  • Managed Advertising, Marketing, and Branding Activities in line with the Department's strategic objectives.
  • Provided advice and guidance on the interpretation and application of the Department's Communication Strategy and Policies regarding Marketing
  • Provided inputs on the compilation of the Department's Strategic Documents
  • Compiled and submitted the Chief Directorate's monthly and quarterly reports

COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST: EXTERNAL COMMUNICATION

Gauteng Department of Finance
08.2007 - 05.2011
  • Managed effective communication techniques, improving overall departmental performance and collaboration.
  • Assisted with marketing strategy development to increase public awareness and customer engagement.
  • Enhanced brand awareness by developing and executing strategic communication plans.
  • Evaluated the success of communication campaigns using analytics tools, refining future strategies based on insights gained.
  • Led corporate rebranding initiatives, successfully positioning the company as an industry leader within a competitive marketplace.
  • Assisted with the managed public relations efforts, securing positive media coverage and strengthening brand reputation.
  • Provided administrative support to senior team members.
  • Liaised between departments during project-based collaborations ensuring timely delivery of high-quality outputs.
  • Coordinated successful events that fostered community connections and enhanced brand visibility.
  • Conducted communications audits to identify areas of improvement and develop targeted action plans.
  • Communicated company promotions, products, and services to the public to increase brand awareness and overall revenue.

COMMUNICATION OFFICER

SBV Services (Pty) Ltd
05.2007 - 07.2007
  • Analyzed data from communications campaigns to identify areas of improvement and make necessary adjustments for future success.
  • Enhanced internal communication by implementing a company-wide intranet and newsletter system.
  • Coordinated event planning for conferences, trade shows, and product launches, ensuring successful outcomes and high attendance rates.
  • Assisted human resources department in developing employee communication strategies that fostered a positive work environment and strong company culture.
  • Streamlined public relations efforts, resulting in increased media coverage and brand awareness.
  • Increased website traffic through search engine optimization techniques targeting relevant keywords related to the organization''s products or services.
  • Oversaw corporate branding initiatives to ensure consistency across all materials both internally and externally facing.
  • Monitored news outlets daily to stay informed on industry trends, utilizing relevant information in crafting targeted messaging strategies.
  • Collaborated with design team to ensure visual elements of marketing materials aligned with brand guidelines and effectively communicated key messaging.
  • Created compelling content for various channels, driving audience reach and engagement.
  • Supported the organisation's programmes through public relations - writing, researching and preparation of materials
  • Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to identify key messages and create compelling content for press releases and other materials.
  • Produced and distributed brochures, newsletters and press kits.
  • Provided timely support in maintaining the company website, ensuring accurate information is accessible and up-to-date for all stakeholders.

EVENTS AND PROMOTIONS MANAGER

AFRIKINGS
04.2006 - 07.2006
  • Championed corporate social responsibility initiatives linked to promotional activities, enhancing the company''s reputation as a socially conscious brand.
  • Launched successful product activations that garnered significant consumer attention and media coverage.
  • Collaborated with sales teams to design customized promotions tailored to specific client needs, resulting in improved client satisfaction rates.
  • Increased customer engagement through innovative in-store events and targeted marketing initiatives.
  • Boosted brand awareness by strategizing and executing promotional campaigns across multiple platforms.
  • Optimized promotional budgets to ensure maximum return on investment while maintaining a high level of quality in promotional materials.
  • Formed part of the team that spearheaded creative brainstorming sessions that generated fresh ideas for upcoming campaigns, fostering an innovative work environment.
  • Analyzed market trends and competitor activities to identify new opportunities for promotional growth.
  • Developed comprehensive post-campaign reports that detailed performance data and insights, informing future strategy decisions for the company''s promotions.
  • Managed day-to-day functions of promotion and marketing departments.
  • Collaborated with sales staff to plan campaigns.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors for promotional materials, securing favorable terms that benefited the business financially.

PROMOTIONS CO-ORDINATOR

ComutaNet (Prime Media)
08.2004 - 03.2006
  • Assisted with the developed advertising tactics and implemented new solutions for increased brand awareness.
  • Provided support with conducting competitor analysis to identify gaps in the market and capitalize on untapped opportunities.
  • Monitored product market and adjusted marketing plans.
  • Supported the creation and implementation of external and internal communications strategies for key company initiatives.
  • Collected performance data on each promotion to better plan future events.
  • Worked closely with clients to identify needs and challenges and provide solution-oriented campaign themes.
  • Coordinated logistics for multiple simultaneous events, ensuring smooth operations and minimal conflicts.
  • Delivered comprehensive post-event reports highlighting key achievements and areas of improvement.
  • Streamlined promotions process, ensuring timely execution of marketing materials for all events.
  • Enhanced brand awareness through the coordination of promotional events and campaigns.

COMMUNICATION INTERN

Department of Social Development
10.2001 - 06.2002
  • Strengthened interpersonal skills through frequent interaction with colleagues at various organizational levels.
  • Served as a liaison between various departments within the organization to ensure consistency in messaging across all channels.
  • Provided administrative support to the communications department by organizing files, scheduling appointments, and managing contact databases.
  • Assisted with the developing engaging content for social media platforms to increase brand visibility and enhance audience engagement.
  • Gained practical experience working in a fast-paced business environment under tight deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Enhanced internal communication by drafting and editing newsletters, emails, and other announcements.
  • Assisted in coordinating events and meetings, ensuring smooth execution and positive attendee experiences.
  • Supported public relations efforts by compiling media lists, monitoring coverage, and creating press materials.
  • Contributed to the creation of marketing materials such as brochures, flyers, and presentations to promote company products or services.
  • Participated in brainstorming sessions to generate creative ideas for upcoming campaigns or initiatives.
  • Helped with photo and video production and performed visual and sound editing tasks.
  • Supported public relations managers with writing, researching and preparation of materials

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Marketing Management

University of South Africa (UNISA)
Pretoria, South Africa
04.2001 -

National Diploma - Public Relations

University of Johannesburg (UJ)
04.2001 -

No Degree - Public Relations Certificate

University of Johannesburg (UJ)
Johannesburg, South Africa
04.2001 -

Skills

Strategic communication planning and execution

Accomplishments

Developed Integrated Marketing Communication Strategies approved by the Board (OHSC and State Diamond Trader


Managed the re-branding project of the State Diamond Trader approved by the Board


Managed the Health Ombud's multichannel access touchpoints launch which included the rebranding of the corporate identity and website.


Managed the effective execution and communication awareness of the following critical local international programmes: Kimberley Process Certification, Budget Vote Speech (2011 – 2016), Public Participation in the amendments of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA), Africa Mining Indaba (2011- 2016), Social and Labour Plans Launches, Conferences and Seminars on critical programmes of the Department.


I established the Communication and Marketing unit. One of the highlights of this position was my involvement with the project management and delivery of the entity's participation at the Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair. Participating in this international trade show aimed to promote South Africa as one of the diamond-producing countries and showcase the country's beneficiation projects. I was responsible for profiling the country's participation through the SDT and managed the marketing and communication function and media, and stakeholder relations.



Timeline

Manager: Marketing and Stakeholder Relations

Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC)
03.2023 - Current

FREELANCER: COMMUNICATIONS, MARKETING, EVENTS AND

Motion Colour Pixels
11.2019 - 03.2023

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION OFFICER

State Diamond Trader
05.2017 - 05.2019

DEPUTY DIRECTOR: MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGEMENT

Department of Mineral Resources (DMR)
05.2011 - 04.2017

COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST: EXTERNAL COMMUNICATION

Gauteng Department of Finance
08.2007 - 05.2011

COMMUNICATION OFFICER

SBV Services (Pty) Ltd
05.2007 - 07.2007

EVENTS AND PROMOTIONS MANAGER

AFRIKINGS
04.2006 - 07.2006

PROMOTIONS CO-ORDINATOR

ComutaNet (Prime Media)
08.2004 - 03.2006

COMMUNICATION INTERN

Department of Social Development
10.2001 - 06.2002

Bachelor of Arts - Marketing Management

University of South Africa (UNISA)
04.2001 -

National Diploma - Public Relations

University of Johannesburg (UJ)
04.2001 -

No Degree - Public Relations Certificate

University of Johannesburg (UJ)
04.2001 -
Ntombizodwa Ruth KobuweChartered Public Relations Practitioner (CPRP)