Head of News and Issues Management

We are looking for a Head of News and Issues Management to join our Communications and Engagement Function within the Enablement group. This full‑time permanent role is based at 10 South Colonnade, Canary Wharf, London, E14 4PU. The position operates a flexible hybrid model, with a minimum of eight days per month on site, increasing to up to 12 days depending on business needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, lead and manage the agency’s profile and reputation through high‑profile, sensitive and day‑to‑day news and issues.
• Lead effective news and issues management strategies, nurture senior media and social media contacts, and respond rapidly to breaking or negative news.
• Manage two news and media leads and two specialists.
• Generate, deliver and evaluate news and issues management strategies aligned with the business priorities and culture change in the organisation.
• Provide news and issues management communications advice to senior leaders, including the executive committee and the chief executive.
• Produce high‑quality handling plans that include reactive lines to take, press notices, risk assessments, core scripts, briefings and Q&A, and shareable social media content.
• Develop, build and nurture professional relationships with journalists and social media influencers.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge and experience of running or leading a high‑profile press office with a focus on news and issues management.
• Strong, proven understanding of news, issues and reputation management, and the ability to produce interesting, accessible content.
• Excellent written, editorial, social media engagement and oral communication skills.
• Proven leadership and management skills: experience leading and developing multi‑functional units, motivating staff, and managing performance.
• Ability to communicate accurately and confidently, influence and challenge staff and external contacts at all levels.
• Proven ability to build and maintain professional relationships with senior journalists and social media influencers.
• Recognised communications qualification desirable.