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External Communications Officer - Media and Press (Ref: 18083)

  • Job
    Full-time
    Junior & Mid Level
  • Government & Politics
    Media & Journalism
  • London

AI generated summary

  • You should have experience or potential in media work, strong writing skills, and the ability to engage stakeholders, create content, and develop strategies collaboratively and creatively.
  • You will handle media inquiries, draft responses, pitch stories, develop press releases, maintain journalist relationships, monitor coverage, create content, collaborate with teams, and evaluate communications.

Requirements

  • Candidates should be able to demonstrate experience or strong potential in press and media work. We also welcome candidates who bring skills or interest in one or more of the following areas:
  • Media and press – drafting press releases, handling media enquiries, building journalist relationships, developing reactive and proactive media strategies.
  • Digital communications – creating content for websites and social media, using analytics to inform decisions and reach audiences beyond traditional media.
  • External affairs – stakeholder engagement, managing relationships with partners, interest groups or parliamentarians to support broader communications goals.
  • Strategic communications – contributing to narrative development, audience insight, and integrated campaign planning.
  • You will be an effective communicator with strong writing skills and the ability to adapt your style for different audiences and channels. You will be collaborative, proactive and comfortable working at pace in a fast-moving environment. You will be curious, creative and committed to continuous learning across communications disciplines.

Responsibilities

  • Handle incoming media enquiries accurately and at pace, drafting responses and lines to take in close collaboration with policy and senior colleagues.
  • Proactively pitch stories and develop press releases, opinion pieces and other media content that land key messages with target audiences.
  • Work across communications to support the development of communication strategies and campaign plans covering print and broadcast media as well as working with new media and digital outlets.
  • Build and maintain positive relationships with journalists and editors across national, regional, trade and specialist media.
  • Monitor media coverage and the wider communications landscape, identifying opportunities and risks and escalating issues appropriately.
  • Draft high-quality written content across a range of formats and channels, including briefings, digital content and stakeholder correspondence.
  • Work collaboratively across the wider communications team and with policy and operational colleagues to ensure press activity is joined up and aligned to organisational priorities.
  • Contribute to evaluation of communications activity, using data and coverage analysis to inform and improve future work.

FAQs

What is the job title of this position?

The job title is External Communications Officer - Media and Press.

Where is the position located?

The position is based at 102 Petty France (MoJ) London, SW1H 9AJ.

What is the salary for this role?

The salary for this role is £40,014, with an additional contribution of £11,592 towards the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.

What are the primary responsibilities of this role?

The primary responsibilities include managing media relations, responding to press enquiries, delivering proactive communications, drafting press releases, pitching stories, and building relationships with journalists.

What skills and experience are required for this position?

Candidates should demonstrate experience or strong potential in press and media work, digital communications, external affairs, and strategic communications.

What kind of work environment can I expect?

The role involves a collaborative, fast-paced environment that encourages creativity and adaptability to changing situations.

What benefits does this position offer?

Benefits include access to learning and development, flexible working options, a Civil Service pension, annual leave, and public holidays.

Are there any nationality requirements for the applicants?

Yes, the position is broadly open to UK nationals, nationals of the Republic of Ireland, Commonwealth countries, and nationals of the EU, among others with the right to work in the UK.

What will the selection process involve?

The selection process will assess your Behaviours, Strengths, Experience, and Technical skills using Success Profiles.

Is there any assistance for candidates with disabilities?

Yes, the Civil Service runs a Disability Confident Scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.

Who can I contact for more information about the recruitment process?

You can contact the SSCL Recruitment Enquiries Team via email at moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@resourcing.soprasteria.co.uk or by telephone at 0345 241 5359.

We protect & advance the UK's principles of justice, working to deliver a world-class justice system for all.

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