Head of media relations

Head of Media Relations – Renowned Welfare Charity

London Hybrid working

£48-£50K plus benefits

I am beyond excited to be bringing this Head of Media Relations role to market on an exclusive basis. My client is a well-known and highly reputable charity that you would be proud to represent. As the Head of PR and Media Relations, you will design, author, and launch a new strategy that will raise the charity’s profile and positioning within the media. Your role will focus on growing their brand with top-tier media outlets driving awareness whilst also protecting the reputation of the charity. You will handle all reputation issues and everything you do will work towards driving brand awareness and business growth. You will actively participate in the creation and delivery of global media efforts and topic campaigns, liaising with the wider business and marketing teams. You will lead in building relationships and growing their brand with top-tier media outlets.

Role responsibilities:

• Develop a comprehensive media relations strategy that aligns with the organisation’s goals and objectives.
• Create specific plans for key projects and campaigns, outlining goals, target audiences, key messages, and tactics.
• Provide direction and leadership to the media relations team. This includes setting clear expectations, managing their workload, and fostering professional growth.
• Conduct media training sessions for staff, including key spokespeople and stakeholders, to ensure they are well-prepared for media interviews.
• Provide guidance on crafting key messages, handling difficult questions, and building relationships with journalists.
• Oversee the execution of the media relations plan, working closely with the Media Relations team and any external agencies.
• Take the lead in media relations when managing reputational issues during crises, ensuring that messaging is consistent and designed to protect the charity’s reputation.
• Establish clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for media relations activities.

Role requirements:

• 8 years’ experience preferred in media relations, financial or professional services.
• Previous experience working with journalists and media is crucial.
• Strong media contacts in business and press in the UK and, ideally, internationally.
• Experience developing and delivering successful B2B media and communication strategies.
• Strong writing capabilities.
• Experience managing reputational and crisis comms.
• Skill in writing concepts and briefs, editing, and writing press releases.
• Experience working successfully within a complex matrix-structured organisation.
• Experience in managing staff, agencies and other external suppliers.