Contract to start ASAP until 13-11-26 with a possible extension.

We are looking for an experienced Senior Press Officer to join the Communications team and lead the day-to-day delivery of proactive and reactive media activity. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled communications professional to shape compelling stories, manage media relations and help raise the profile of the Combined Authority across the region.

Working closely with the Head of News, Digital Content Manager and Social Media Officer, you will develop engaging content, handle media enquiries, support senior leaders and ensure consistent messaging across press, digital and internal communications. You'll also play a key role in reputation management, stakeholder engagement and crisis communications.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver proactive and reactive media relations and press office activity.
• Draft press releases, media statements, speeches, briefing notes and Q&As.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with regional, trade and national media.
• Identify and develop compelling stories that showcase the Combined Authority's work.
• Support senior leaders with media engagements and executive communications.
• Create content for digital channels, websites and newsletters.
• Monitor media coverage and use analytics to improve communication strategies.
• Support internal communications, corporate messaging and stakeholder engagement.
• Assist with reputation management, issues management and crisis communications.

Requirements

• Significant experience in a press office, journalism or media relations role.
• Excellent writing, editing and storytelling skills.
• Experience managing proactive and reactive media enquiries.
• Strong understanding of local government, the public sector or political environments.
• Excellent stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong political awareness, sound judgement and professional integrity.
• Experience supporting senior leaders or elected members is desirable.
• Knowledge of devolution, regional policy or Combined Authorities is advantageous.

If you are a creative and experienced communications professional looking to make an impact within a high-profile public sector organisation, we would love to hear from you.

Disclaimer: On applying for this vacancy, you agree that your personal details will be passed onto our client for their consideration of your suitability for the role. I acknowledge that it is my responsibility to notify iWork Recruitment Limited of any hirer who I do not want my details to be passed onto.

5302256-08-26