At a Glance
- Tasks: Support media relations, create content, and monitor media across EMEA.
- Company: Join DS Smith, a leader in sustainable packaging solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, 25 days holiday, and hybrid work options.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and collaboration across teams.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a fast-paced, international environment while enhancing corporate reputation.
- Qualifications: Degree in communications or related field; experience in media relations preferred.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
About Us
We are DS Smith, together with International Paper, we are a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions and other fibre‑based products. We believe a better, more sustainable tomorrow is possible with the right people, who challenge and support one another to enact positive change. We employ more than 65,000 colleagues in North America and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), who are experts in innovation, manufacturing, design, sales, sustainability, supply chain, and much more. Together with our customers, we make the world safer and more productive, one sustainable packaging solution at a time. Become part of a world‑leading organisation and do your best work with us!
About the role
We’re looking for a proactive and organised Media Relations Executive to join our Corporate Affairs team within the Packaging division. As our EMEA Communications function continues to evolve, this role plays a key part in supporting a more joined‑up, proactive media approach that protects and enhances our corporate reputation while supporting commercial growth. Reporting to the Senior Media Relations Manager, you will assist with content creation, media monitoring, campaign coordination and reactive media handling. The role will contribute to building a strong and consistent reputation for the company across key EMEA markets, working closely with regional teams and agency partners to ensure a consistent and compelling brand narrative. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with early‑career experience in media relations, PR or communications who is keen to grow in a fast‑moving, international environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Media relations & monitoring
- Carry out daily media monitoring across EMEA and help produce monthly dashboards and reports.
- Track emerging media themes, competitor activity and potential reputational risks.
- Act as a first point of contact for incoming media enquiries, escalating issues where required.
- Maintain distribution lists and support outreach with agency partners.
- Campaign & content support
- Assist with drafting press releases, quotes, Q&A and briefing notes.
- Support proactive media campaigns by coordinating with local markets and agencies.
- Help manage the central editorial calendar and track key milestones.
- Collect inputs and assets from across the business for campaign toolkits.
- Issues management
- Log and track reactive enquiries and ensure timely internal updates.
- Help maintain issues response documents, holding statements and Q&A’s.
- Support the Senior Media Relations Manager during live or emerging issues.
- Story development & materials
- Identify potential story leads across the business.
- Gather background information, data and insights to support media content.
- Produce first drafts of media materials and help maintain the asset library.
About You
- Degree‑level education, ideally in communications, media, journalism, languages or social sciences.
- Experience in communications, PR, journalism or a similar environment, with understanding of print, broadcast and digital media.
- Experience supporting media relations or campaign activity (corporate or agency).
- Exposure to drafting press materials or briefing content.
- Comfortable working collaboratively across teams and functions and engaging with senior stakeholders when required.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with an eye for detail.
- Highly organised, adaptable and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Familiarity with media monitoring or social listening tools is desirable.
What we offer
- Competitive salary
- Discretionary bonus
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Digital GP, Pension scheme, life assurance and income protection
- Salary sacrifice electric car scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Employee Discounts
- Cycle to work scheme
Location: London, Paddington – Hybrid
We welcome all candidates to apply, even those not meeting all criteria.
Media Relations Executive in City of Westminster employer: DS Smith
At DS Smith, we pride ourselves on being a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions, fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to drive positive change. As a Media Relations Executive based in London, you will benefit from a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and a range of employee perks, all while working in a dynamic environment that prioritises professional growth and sustainability. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a company that values your contributions and supports your career development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Media Relations Executive in City of Westminster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current employees at DS Smith. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or a personal website showcasing your media relations work. This gives you a chance to demonstrate your creativity and expertise beyond just a CV.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see an interesting story or trend related to DS Smith, don’t hesitate to share your thoughts on social media or directly with the team. It shows initiative and genuine interest in the company.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at DS Smith.
We think you need these skills to ace Media Relations Executive in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Media Relations Executive role. Highlight your relevant experience in media relations, PR, or communications, and show us how you can contribute to our mission of sustainable packaging solutions.
Show Off Your Writing Skills:Since this role involves a lot of content creation, include examples of your writing in your application. Whether it's press releases, articles, or reports, we want to see your flair for crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.
Be Proactive and Organised:Demonstrate your proactive nature and organisational skills in your application. Share specific examples of how you've managed multiple tasks or projects simultaneously, as this is key to thriving in our fast-paced environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at DS Smith
✨Know Your Media Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into the media landscape relevant to DS Smith. Familiarise yourself with key publications, journalists, and trends in sustainable packaging. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also demonstrate your understanding of the industry.
✨Showcase Your Writing Skills
As a Media Relations Executive, strong writing skills are crucial. Bring samples of your previous work, such as press releases or articles, to showcase your ability to craft compelling narratives. Be prepared to discuss your writing process and how you tailor content for different audiences.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in media relations. Think of examples where you've handled media inquiries or managed a campaign. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly and effectively.
✨Engage with Their Values
DS Smith values sustainability and innovation. During the interview, connect your personal values and experiences with their mission. Share how you can contribute to their goals and why you're passionate about working in a company that prioritises positive change.
