Media Relations Manager Job Description - Strategic PR Lead

The Media Relations Manager is responsible for shaping and maintaining an organisation's public profile through proactive engagement with news media and other external stakeholders. Candidates with proven experience in public relations, strong editorial judgement and a track record of securing high quality media coverage should apply.

Media Relations Manager Job Profile

The Media Relations Manager leads the development and delivery of media strategies that support organisational objectives and reputation. This role combines strategic planning with hands on media engagement to ensure accurate and timely coverage across national and trade press.

The post holder will act as the primary point of contact for journalists, provide media training and counsel senior spokespeople, and coordinate cross functional activity to align messaging and response priorities.

Media Relations Manager Job Description

The Media Relations Manager develops and executes media plans that raise awareness, shape public perception and support key campaigns. Working closely with communications colleagues and senior leaders, the role requires drafting clear, concise statements, preparing spokespeople and managing interview opportunities to achieve targeted outcomes.

The role operates in a fast paced environment requiring rapid response to emerging stories and issues. The Media Relations Manager must balance proactive outreach with reactive crisis response, maintain strong relationships with journalists and editors, and ensure consistent messaging across channels.

Expectations include measurable delivery against media coverage targets, oversight of media monitoring and evaluation, and liaison with external agencies where required. The role requires good judgement, confidentiality and the ability to represent the organisation effectively under scrutiny.

Media Relations Manager: Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive media relations strategies aligned to organisational priorities
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists, editors and media outlets across relevant sectors
• Draft press releases, media statements, briefing notes and editorial copy for spokespeople
• Coordinate and prepare senior leaders and subject matter experts for interviews and media appearances
• Respond promptly to media enquiries and manage interview logistics and scheduling
• Monitor media coverage, evaluate impact and produce regular reports for stakeholders
• Manage reactive communications during issues and incidents, providing clear counsel to senior management
• Develop and maintain media lists, embargo management and targeted outreach programmes
• Secure bylines, op eds and feature placements to advance thought leadership objectives
• Facilitate media training and coaching for spokespeople across the organisation
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and timely information flow
• Manage relationships with external PR agencies and suppliers as required
• Maintain editorial standards and ensure accuracy of public statements and content
• Contribute to planning for events, launches and campaign activity requiring media engagement

Media Relations Manager: Requirements and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations or related discipline
• Typically five or more years of direct media relations or public relations experience
• Proven track record of securing national and sector media coverage
• Excellent written communication and strong editorial skills with attention to accuracy
• Confident verbal communicator with experience preparing spokespeople for media engagement
• Experience in crisis communications and the ability to manage press activity under pressure
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at senior levels
• Analytical approach to media measurement and the ability to report on outcomes
• Good organisational skills and the ability to prioritise competing demands
• High level of discretion, professionalism and sound judgement
• Experience managing external agencies and supplier relationships
• Demonstrable understanding of the media landscape relevant to the organisation
• Ability to work flexible hours when required to respond to media developments