Press Officer

We are currently recruiting a Press officer to support with generating impactful press coverage and social media narratives around the clients departments, using a range of techniques and ideas - and a focus on digital storytelling - to enhance the profile of its teaching, research and enterprise activities. An ability to think about and present content in fresh ways and with a digital-first approach is essential, as are good networking skills and a sharp news sense to ensure you're tracking down the most impactful stories. A passion for talking to people and telling a story with energy, polish and attention to detail - not to mention a level-headedness for when our press office gets particularly busy - are qualities you'll need to excel. Main Duties and Responsibilities Play an integral role in enhancing the company's profile and reputation by promoting its department's activities, sourcing impactful stories and articulating them in an accessible way through digital and traditional channels. Write well-crafted news releases and target key influencers with compelling stories about company, producing digital content - including videos Work as a key member of the press office team, facilitating media enquiries and ensuring that requests are dealt with in a timely manner. Craft media statements in response to enquiries, liaising with relevant members of the team and legal services for approval if necessary. Position and pitch in a range of media and in line with the news agenda, using all tools at your disposal Source opportunities for members of the media to visit, coordinating their visit and ensuring they are looked after. Ensure the company's website's news pages are kept up-to-date with digital content. Update and maintain an online expert's directory, ensuring it's as up-to-date and accessible as possible to make it an essential go-to resource for colleagues. Support with drafting case studies and profile pieces; and help to proofread work if needed. Research and write feature articles for publications -and assist with content planning in collaboration with marketing research colleagues. PERSON SPECIFICATION Flexibility to be part of an on-call rota for out-of-hours press support (via a press office mobile) Educated to graduate level, ideally with a media, communications and/or public relations focused qualification 1 years demonstrable experience of working in a public relations or newsroom environment. Knowledge of media monitoring and evaluation techniques as well as press contact databases, and how to exploit their potential to enhance reputation. Strong awareness of different types of media (horizontal, vertical, etc) and their audiences/ readership. Exceptional writing abilities and attention to detail, with an acute awareness of tone of voice. Ability to generate interest and enthusiasm for stories, and to capture that interest in digital and traditional materials.