About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is a global powerhouse in beverages and convenient foods, with products enjoyed over one billion times daily across more than 200 countries. In 2021, the company generated $79 billion in net revenue, fueled by iconic brands like Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. Many of these brands surpass $1 billion in annual sales. At the heart of PepsiCo’s strategy is pep+, a transformative vision to become the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by prioritizing sustainability and human capital. This end-to-end approach ensures operations stay within planetary boundaries while driving positive change for people and the planet. Headquartered in Cape Town for South Africa operations, PepsiCo offers a vibrant hub for innovation in the food and beverage sector.

Role Overview

The Internal and Digital Communications Lead role at PepsiCo’s Cape Town HQ is a strategic leadership position reporting to key executives including the SA CHRO and CEO Office. This full-time role demands a versatile communicator who can bridge internal strategies with digital execution, fostering employee engagement across diverse functions. You’ll shape narratives that align with business priorities, from organizational change to sustainability initiatives like pep+. Ideal for seasoned professionals passionate about internal comms in a multinational setting, this position offers high visibility and impact in South Africa’s dynamic market.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning and Execution

Develop and execute a comprehensive internal corporate communication strategy and Annual Operating Plan (AOP) for PepsiCo South Africa, ensuring alignment with overarching communications goals. Demonstrate agility in planning across internal and external channels while maintaining consistent messaging tied to business priorities.

Employee Value Proposition and Inclusion

Partner with the SA CHRO and HR team to lead the EVP and Inclusion agenda. Set strategies, advise on optimal channels, and create compelling campaigns to promote diversity and belonging.

Executive and Leadership Communications

Act as the primary advisor to the CHRO on organizational change communications. Develop internal executive plans for the SA CEO Office, including letters, videos, townhalls, and events. Manage CEO personal branding on social media, including LinkedIn content calendars, assets, and posting strategies. Support leadership team profiles similarly.

Sustainability and Engagement Initiatives

Lead PEP+ internal communication strategies in collaboration with EMEA CSO, engaging Green teams and business units. Drive frontliners’ internal comms aligned with regional/global plans and serve as the local connector for EMEA Corporate Comms.

Digital and Content Management

Create templated content (videos, photos, written) with basic design skills. Manage intranet (mypepsico.com), curate editorial content, and oversee LinkedIn pages: develop monthly plans, storytelling, posting, boosting, and media opportunities. Conduct social listening, data analysis, and scorecarding for continuous improvement. Advise leadership on tone, channels, and approaches across functions like IT, Supply Chain, and Finance.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel, candidates need a Communications or Marketing Degree, with a Digital Communications Certificate or Diploma as an advantage. Deep understanding of South Africa’s business landscape, its diversity, and unique needs is essential. Proven track record in driving innovative internal comms agendas with multiple stakeholders is required, alongside extensive experience advising and influencing senior executives. You should have a history of developing tools and programs engaging diverse employee functions, with strategic creativity, agility, and the ability to inspire teams across geographies amid complex challenges.

Benefits & Perks

Joining PepsiCo means access to world-class benefits tailored for South Africa. Enjoy competitive compensation estimated at ZAR 650,000–950,000 annually, reflecting Food & Beverage sector rates with a buffer. Benefit from comprehensive health coverage, retirement plans, and wellness programs. Work in a modern Cape Town HQ with flexible arrangements. Perks include product allowances, professional development budgets, and events tied to global brands. PepsiCo invests in sustainability-focused initiatives, offering purpose-driven work through pep+.

Career Growth

PepsiCo fosters internal mobility across EMEA and global networks. This role positions you for advancement into regional comms leadership or broader corporate affairs. Gain exposure to C-suite advisory, digital transformation, and cross-functional partnerships. Ongoing training in digital tools, leadership, and analytics ensures skill evolution. High performers access PepsiCo’s talent programs, mentorship, and international rotations, building a trajectory toward executive communications roles.

Why Join Us

Be part of a company redefining the food and beverage industry with sustainability at its core. In Cape Town, you’ll lead comms for a diverse, high-impact market, influencing thousands of employees and shaping PepsiCo’s narrative in South Africa. Collaborate with innovative teams on pep+ projects that matter globally. Enjoy a premium culture valuing agility, creativity, and results in a supportive, inclusive environment. PepsiCo’s scale offers unmatched stability and excitement for communications experts ready to make a difference.

Role FAQs

What is the work environment like?

A hybrid setup at Cape Town HQ emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and work-life balance in a diverse team.

Is digital experience mandatory?

Yes, proficiency in social media (especially LinkedIn), content creation, and analytics is crucial.

How does this role support pep+?

You’ll lead internal strategies to embed sustainability messaging, aligning local efforts with global goals.

What salary can I expect?

Estimated ZAR 650,000–950,000 yearly, based on sector benchmarks with upside potential.

Who do I report to?

Key stakeholders include SA CHRO, CEO Office, and EMEA Corporate Comms leads.