At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage press office, engage with media, and promote impactful research.
- Company: Join the UK's leading independent economics research institute.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with social activities and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public policy through rigorous analysis and communication.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and interest in media and public policy.
The predicted salary is between 31600 - 34600 £ per year.
The Institute for Fiscal Studies is the UK’s leading independent economics research institute and an award-winning think tank. We are independent of political influence and have a strong reputation for producing high-quality, far-reaching and policy-relevant analysis and commentary. Our goal at IFS is to promote well-designed and effective economic and social policies through research that helps us better understand how such policies affect individuals, families, businesses and the government's finances.
We communicate our research widely, providing independent advice and evidence to policymakers; collaborating with renowned academics; and disseminating our findings through the press, media, social media and online. Our remit and expertise cover important topics such as taxation, the public finances, education, healthcare, pensions, benefits, consumer behaviour, the environment, development, wealth, inequality, and poverty.
Responsibilities
We are looking for a hard-working and engaged individual to join us as Media Officer, helping to manage our busy and renowned press office and social media output at the IFS. This role will include:
- Running a busy press office, sending agenda setting work to media contacts, fielding journalist queries and connecting them to our world-leading experts.
- Monitoring and reporting on the impact work of the IFS and helping to prepare colleagues for media appearances.
- Producing content for and monitoring social media channels to promote the IFS.
- Tracking the IFS’s presence in public debate and monitoring UK policy developments across the press, social media, and Parliament.
The successful candidate will be part of a team who values and achieves high impact across media, policy and social media.
Qualifications and requirements
We are looking for someone who:
- Has a very good understanding of and interest in the current media landscape both in traditional forms and social media.
- Possesses political sensitivity and judgement and a keen interest in public policy.
- Can communicate complex ideas and information carefully to non-specialist and lay audiences.
- Is a people-person and motivated to build relationships and engage with world leading economists and journalists.
- Can work to a high level of accuracy and has a willingness to learn and pitch in ideas.
This role involves:
- Handling day-to-day press office queries, arranging interviews and responding appropriately to journalists.
- Running a professional press office function that helps to maintain and develop strong relationships with local, national, international and specialist media.
- Monitoring the national news, social media and policy agenda closely to spot opportunities and risks for the Institute.
- Issuing IFS press releases and working with the team to offer guidance on gaining maximum impact.
- Preparing content for use across social media platforms and supporting the team with social media planning.
What you can expect from us
A salary of £31,600-£34,600, with opportunities for salary progression. The chance to make a real difference, helping us to promote rigorous and truly independent research that has a genuine impact on public debate and government policy. The support of an experienced communications team and a friendly, sociable and collaborative organisation.
Some out-of-hours working will be required, including being part of an on-call press rota. The successful candidate will be expected to spend the vast majority of their contracted hours in the London office, with up to one day a week working from home by negotiation with senior manager.
Media Officer employer: Institute for Fiscal Studies
The Institute for Fiscal Studies is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where you can contribute to impactful economic research and policy analysis. With a strong emphasis on professional development, employees benefit from a supportive and collaborative culture, alongside opportunities for training and growth within a high-performing communications team. Enjoy a vibrant workplace with an active social calendar, making it not just a job, but a meaningful career in a prestigious think tank.
Contact Details:
Institute for Fiscal Studies Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Media Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the media and policy circles. Attend events, join discussions, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might help you land that Media Officer role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your social media skills! Create engaging content that showcases your understanding of the media landscape. Share your thoughts on current events or trends in public policy. This not only demonstrates your expertise but also gets you noticed by potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the IFS and its impact on public policy. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their mission. Tailor your responses to highlight your experience in communications and your passion for making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the IFS team. Let’s get you that Media Officer position!
We think you need these skills to ace Media Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, think about who will be reading your application. Tailor your language and examples to resonate with the IFS team, showing that you understand their mission and values.
Showcase Your Skills:Highlight your relevant experience in communications or press roles. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your skills align with the responsibilities of the Media Officer position.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon and complex sentences; instead, focus on clear communication that reflects your ability to convey complex ideas simply.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at IFS!
How to prepare for a job interview at Institute for Fiscal Studies
✨Know Your Media Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding the current media landscape. Familiarise yourself with both traditional and social media platforms relevant to the role of a Media Officer. This will not only show your interest but also help you discuss how you can effectively engage with various media outlets.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. Think of examples where you've successfully conveyed intricate information to non-specialist audiences. This is crucial for the role, so practice articulating your thoughts in a straightforward manner.
✨Be Politically Savvy
Brush up on current public policy debates and understand the political sensitivities involved. Being able to discuss these topics intelligently will highlight your awareness and judgement, which are key attributes for a Media Officer at the IFS.
✨Bring Innovative Ideas
Think about creative ways to promote research and engage with the media. Prepare a few innovative ideas that could enhance the IFS's media presence. This shows initiative and a proactive approach, which will impress the interviewers.
