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Deputy Head of External Communications

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Reach plc

3mo ago

  • Job
    Full-time
    Senior Level
  • Marketing
    Media & Journalism
  • London
  • Quick Apply

AI generated summary

  • You must have strong PR skills, media relations expertise, excellent writing and stakeholder management abilities, and a keen understanding of business sensitivities and the media landscape.
  • You will execute external communication strategies, manage the press office, develop media relationships, support corporate events, and advise on reputational risks while acting as a key contact for executives.

Requirements

  • Knowledge of best practice external communications strategy, PR, and media relations.
  • Demonstrable track record in making judgement calls when balancing risk/reward, managing press queries in a highly scrutinised business.
  • Excellent writing and proofreading skills, including the ability to tailor content to the audience and adapt brand tone/style.
  • Brilliant stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and gain people’s confidence and buy-in.
  • Strong knowledge of the media landscape and trends, including the broader tech landscape.
  • Excellent relationship skills in trade, broadcast, and consumer media.
  • Demonstrable commitment to continuous improvement with a high degree of initiative and problem-solving drive.
  • Understanding of business sensitivities and managing these within campaigns.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute Reach’s external communication strategy to support strategic goals.
  • Run the daily press office function, including media monitoring. The role includes some out of hours press office cover.
  • Plan and manage the PR grid and support company spokespeople with effective messaging around PR and events opportunities.
  • Develop relationships with key media, particularly trade media and broadcast contacts.
  • Work with leaders across the business to source and develop stories that contribute to Reach’s larger narrative and to advise on reputational risks.
  • Support the Head of External Communications on key corporate set pieces such as annual results, corporate announcements, and the Annual Report.
  • Deputise for the Head of External Communications when absent, acting as a point of contact for C-suite stakeholders and responding effectively to time-sensitive or sensitive issues.
  • Work flexibly to lend expertise in line with changing business needs.

FAQs

What is the main responsibility of the Deputy Head of External Communications?

The main responsibility is to develop and execute Reach’s external communication strategy to support strategic goals, manage the daily press office function, and oversee media monitoring/reporting to senior stakeholders.

Is experience in media relations required for this position?

Yes, knowledge of best practice external communications strategy, PR, and media relations is essential for this position.

Will the Deputy Head of External Communications have out of hours duties?

Yes, the role includes some out of hours press office cover.

What qualifications are needed for this role?

Candidates should have strong knowledge of external communications strategy, excellent writing and proofreading skills, brilliant stakeholder management skills, and an understanding of business sensitivities.

How does Reach support employee development?

Reach offers a range of learning and development programs, along with support from line managers to help employees grow in their careers.

What benefits do employees receive upon joining Reach?

Employees receive a competitive salary, pension scheme matching contributions up to 6%, 25 days of holiday per year (with additional days for long service), enhanced family leave, and more.

Will the Deputy Head of External Communications be involved in key corporate announcements?

Yes, the role involves supporting the Head of External Communications on key corporate set pieces, such as annual results and corporate announcements.

What types of media relationships will be developed in this role?

The Deputy Head of External Communications will develop relationships primarily with trade media and broadcast contacts.

Is there an emphasis on diversity and inclusion at Reach?

Yes, Reach is committed to being an inclusive employer and encourages applications from all suitable applicants, promoting a diverse environment where everyone can thrive.

Who will the Deputy Head of External Communications report to?

The Deputy Head of External Communications will support and report to the Head of External Communications.

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Reach plc

Reach plc - The UK and Ireland's largest commercial news publisher

Technology
Industry
1001-5000
Employees
1832
Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

Reach is the largest commercial publisher in the UK and Ireland. We own over 130 of the most trusted and popular national, regional and local media brands, with a combined print and digital monthly reach of 48m. With over 10 million registered customers, we are proud to be campaigners, champions and changemakers in our communities.