Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of high-impact PR and media activity aligned with organisational priorities.
• Position Children with Cancer UK as a trusted and authoritative voice across research, policy and public debate
• Build and leverage strong relationships with journalists, broadcasters, influencers, VIPs and external advocates
• Secure sustained, high-quality coverage across national, sector and digital media
• Create engaging media stories that resonate with mass audiences and drive public understanding
• Depose for the Head of Marketing and Communications when required
• Lead on issues management, reactive media and crisis communications in sensitive or high-profile contexts
• Provide rapid, strategic counsel to senior leadership during media-critical moments
• Protect and enhance the charity's reputation through proactive and reactive communications
• Work closely with digital and engagement colleagues to align media, social and campaign activity

Requirements

• Demonstrable success in securing high-impact media coverage across national, broadcast and digital channels
• Proven track record of building trusted relationships with journalists, influencers and senior stakeholders
• Experience operating in high-profile, fast-moving or sensitive media environments and delivering tactically while maintaining strategic focus
• Strong track record of developing and delivering media strategies within integrated marketing campaigns that drive sustained coverage and engagement
• Background in leading PR and media strategies within a charity, healthcare or purpose-driven organisation
• Experience managing and developing team members
• Track record of securing broadcast opportunities (TV and radio) for spokespeople
• Familiarity with media monitoring and evaluation tools
• Experience crafting sensitive human-interest stories and supporting vulnerable contributors through the media process that drive coverage while maintaining sensitivity and dignity
• Strong copywriting and editing skills, with the ability to translate complex research or policy issues into compelling stories

Preferred

• Established media contacts across national news desks, broadcast media, health/science correspondents and specialist journalists
• Experience in health, medical research or children’s charity sectors
• Knowledge of childhood cancer, medical research funding or healthcare policy
• Experience working with high-profile ambassadors, celebrities or influencers
• Understanding of parliamentary and policy media environments