News and Media Relations Officer

Responsibilities

• Proactive PR and Campaign Planning: Develop and execute multi-channel PR strategies to promote university teaching, impactful research, and student achievements.
• Multimedia Content Creation: Plan, film, edit, and publish engaging short-form video and graphical content optimized for Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
• Media Relations and Reputation: Draft press releases, expert commentary, and reactive statements, while handling daily media inquiries.
• Feature Development: Collaborate across academic and student groups to uncover stories and turn complex research into compelling public narratives.
• Executive Support: Assist with drafting speeches, scripts, and editorial materials for senior leadership and key university events.
• Analytics and Monitoring: Track media coverage, audience trends, and digital channel performance to continuously refine content strategy.

Requirements

• Professional Experience: Proven track record in journalism, public relations, or media relations, with experience managing proactive and reactive news.
• Digital Storytelling: Strong practical skills in producing engaging digital and social media content, including short-form video editing.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication, with the ability to tailor messaging for diverse audiences and tight deadlines.
• Qualifications: Degree-level qualification or equivalent practical experience (NCTJ, CIPR, or equivalent professional qualifications are desirable).
• Sector Background: Experience working within Higher Education, the public sector, or charitable organizations is desirable.

Preferred

• Degree-level qualification or equivalent practical experience (NCTJ, CIPR, or equivalent professional qualifications are desirable).
• Sector Background: Experience working within Higher Education, the public sector, or charitable organizations is desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive Pro-Rata Pay: Please note this 0.4 FTE role pays an actual salary of £14,947 to £16,281 per annum based on the full-time rate.
• Flexible Working: Part-time hybrid model with equipment provided to support home and campus working.
• Generous Leave: 25 days annual leave (pro-rata, rising with service) plus 8 Bank Holidays and approx. 5 University closure days.
• Financial Wellbeing: High-quality Local Government Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions, financial education, and relocation support (for moves over 30 miles).
• Perks and Facilities: On-site nursery, discounted campus gym membership, travel discounts, and TOTUM savings.
• Inclusive Culture: Athena SWAN Bronze award holder, Disability Confident Employer, and active staff networks fostering a welcoming community.