Nomathamsanqa Gara
Communications Specialist
Port Elizabeth
Summary
Detail-oriented professional with exceptional communication and project management skills. Proven ability to handle multiple tasks effectively and efficiently in fast-paced environments. Recognized for proactive approach to identifying and addressing issues, with focus on optimizing processes and supporting team objectives.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
8081
8081
years of post-secondary education
4
4
Certifications
Work History
Compliance Officer
Crossbow Africa Holdings
Port Elizabeth
03.2023 - Current
- Ensured ongoing compliance with transport, safety, and environmental regulations, contributing to a noticeable reduction in minor non-compliance incidents over a 12-month period.
- Conducted over 15 internal safety audits and supported at least 5 external inspections, all concluded with minimal corrective actions required.
- Trained 25+ team members on compliance protocols and company transport policies, which improved daily operational adherence and reduced common procedural errors.
Public Relations Officer
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
Port Elizabeth
09.2018 - 12.2022
- Led the implementation of a communication strategy and media engagement plan, resulting in a 30% increase in local media coverage and stakeholder awareness.
- Developed targeted content for both internal updates and external platforms, including newsletters, social media, and service announcements, ensuring message clarity and brand consistency.
- Managed crisis communication and coordinated stakeholder messaging during service disruptions and incidents, helping to maintain public trust and minimize reputational risk.
- Improved the municipality's or company’s digital presence and responsiveness, contributing to a 40% increase in online engagement and faster customer query resolution times.
Public Relations Coordinator
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
Port Elizabeth
06.2021 - 12.2021
- Supervised day-to-day operations of the PR team, ensuring timely delivery of communication materials and maintaining quality across all public-facing content.
- Oversaw the PR budget and implemented cost-effective crisis communication strategies, enabling rapid response during service delays or safety incidents.
- Acted as key liaison between internal departments and media outlets, streamlining the flow of accurate information and supporting coordinated public messaging.
Data Capturer
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
Port Elizabeth
04.2016 - 08.2018
- Accurately processed and recorded employee leave applications and entitlements, ensuring up-to-date and compliant HR records.
- Maintained and updated HR databases, and supported internal compliance audits by preparing employee documentation and attendance reports.
Secretary
Nokwe Corporation
Port Elizabeth
05.2010 - 12.2012
- Managed legal correspondence, court schedules, and filing deadlines to ensure timely responses and organized documentation.
- Assisted with basic billing, legal research, and daily office operations, contributing to improved workflow efficiency and case preparation support
Education
Master of Community Development -
UJ
Johannesburg, Gauteng04.2027
Masters in Human Rights -
UFS
Bloemfotein04.2023
Bachelor of Laws (LLB) - Law
UNISA
Pretoria05.2021
Bachelor of Applied Communication Management - Digital Communications And Multimedia
University of Fort Hare
Alice, Eastern Cape05.2010
Skills
- Strategic Communications & PR
- Community Engagement
- Policy Advocacy
- Media Relations
- Digital Campaigns (Hootsuite, Canva, Mailchimp)
Regulatory Compliance
Certification
Skills Auditing- GL Training and Consulting- 2022
References
Available upon request
Accomplishments
- Recognized as the Communications Department's Outstanding Employee of 2022.
- Amplified the reach of NMBM's Facebook page by crafting engaging infographics, ensuring timely responses to social media inquiries, and enhancing overall user experience.
- Pioneered the research and development of a cutting-edge communications policy, set to govern all interactions between NMBM and its valued stakeholders.
Timeline
Compliance Officer
Crossbow Africa Holdings
03.2023 - Current
Public Relations Coordinator
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
06.2021 - 12.2021
Public Relations Officer
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
09.2018 - 12.2022
Data Capturer
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
04.2016 - 08.2018
Secretary
Nokwe Corporation
05.2010 - 12.2012
Master of Community Development -
UJ
Masters in Human Rights -
UFS
Bachelor of Laws (LLB) - Law
UNISA
Bachelor of Applied Communication Management - Digital Communications And Multimedia
University of Fort Hare
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