External Communications Manager

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About us.

PA Media Group is a diverse portfolio of specialist media companies spanning news, data, technology, and communications. Our flagship brand, PA Media, serves as the national news agency for the UK and Ireland. We operate with 1,000 employees across the UK, Ireland, and internationally.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive work environment built on our core values: Ambition, Integrity, Collaboration, and Innovation.

About the Role.

We have an exciting opportunity for a skilled and strategic External Communication Manager to lead our media relations and corporate communications. In this pivotal role, you'll shape and deliver communication strategies that showcase PA Media Group's heritage, ambition, and innovation to external audiences.

Using your journalistic mindset and passion for storytelling, you'll manage our media relations, craft impactful content, and act as a trusted spokesperson for the business. From developing narratives around our growth to responding to press enquiries, you'll ensure every message reflects our values and reinforces our reputation.

Collaborating closely with the Internal Communications Manager, you'll align storytelling across the group, working with senior stakeholders and external partners to deliver cohesive and compelling campaigns.

Inclusion

We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where your unique skills, experiences, and perspectives are valued. We understand the importance of work-life balance and actively support agile working where possible, with most roles typically based in the office three days a week.

If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, please reach out to our recruitment team-we're here to support you every step of the way.

Key Responsibilities.

• Lead the creation and delivery of media relations strategies for PA Media Group and its brands.
• Develop a clear and engaging narrative that reflects the company's ambitions and priorities.
• Manage and respond to media enquiries, acting as the company spokesperson when required.
• Deliver proactive and reactive issue management, maintaining confidentiality and integrity.
• Run the press office: crafting and distributing press releases, pitching stories, and nurturing media relationships.
• Collaborate with marketing and external partners to develop and evaluate media campaigns.
• Create content for diverse channels, including national media, industry publications, and thought leadership platforms.
• Monitor press coverage and produce quarterly insights to evaluate our external presence.
• Contribute to corporate communications, client updates, and crisis management initiatives.

About You.

You're a proactive communicator with a proven track record in corporate communications and media relations. You have the confidence to influence senior stakeholders and the creativity to deliver compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences.

Essential Skills:

• Exceptional attention to detail, with strong planning and organisational skills.
• Proven success in crafting and delivering impactful communication strategies.
• Experience in media relations and issue management.
• Ability to build strong networks and influence senior stakeholders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a journalistic edge.
• Analytical mindset to measure and report on communication impact.
• Resourceful, curious, and driven to ask questions and improve processes.

Desirable Skills:

• Background in journalism or training in media communication.
• Experience in corporate communications for group or international businesses.

What we offer.

Alongside a competitive salary and benefits package, you'll have the chance to lead impactful work and collaborate with a dynamic, forward-thinking team.

• 25 days' holiday with a holiday purchase scheme
• Enhanced pay for maternity, paternity, and adoption leave
• Wellbeing Day (1 annually)
• Volunteering Day (1 annually)
• Life Assurance (4x salary)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• On-site Gym
• A range of other benefits to support your wellbeing.