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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead media strategies and manage the agency's reputation in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join the MHRA, a key player in public health regulation.
- Benefits: Hybrid working model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health while shaping media narratives.
- Qualifications: Experience in media relations and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career advancement opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Full‑time, permanent role in the Communications and Engagement Function of the Enablement Group at the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Location and Working Arrangement
Based at 10 South Colonnade, Canary Wharf, London (E14 4PU). The role operates in a hybrid model with a minimum of 8 days per month on site, up to 12 days depending on business needs. Travel to South Mimms, Herts or other locations may be required.
About MHRA
The MHRA regulates medicines and medical devices, using science and research to protect and improve public health. The Communications and Engagement Group supports the agency’s business outcomes by putting patients and the public at the centre of all work.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop news and issues management strategies that align with MHRA’s business priorities and corporate plans.
- Proactively anticipate high‑profile and sensitive media issues; manage the agency’s reputation and respond quickly to breaking or negative stories.
- Write, edit and publish content for the agency’s websites and social media using the content management system.
- Produce and oversee handling plans, including press releases, briefing scripts, Q&A documents and shareable social media content.
- Build and nurture relationships with journalists and social media influencers, staying up‑to‑date with media and social media trends.
- Advise on media handling and develop appropriate plans with senior managers across the agency.
- Act as an agency spokesperson, delivering authoritative briefings to the media and participating in a 24‑hour media on‑call rota.
Qualifications and Experience
- Extensive experience in a busy press office or media relations role within a large, complex, expert organisation.
- Proven ability to manage fast‑breaking, high‑profile news stories and enhance organisational reputation.
- Strong written, editorial, social media and oral communication skills.
- Experience evaluating traditional media and social media performance to inform business decisions.
- Ability to influence journalists, social media influencers and senior managers, dealing with conflict calmly.
Person Specification
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills (written and oral).
- Excellent planning, project and time‑management skills, working independently and in a team to prioritise work according to changing business needs.
- Strategic thinking: understand the big picture and remain alert to emerging issues and trends.
- Confident, clear, and calm under pressure.
Additional Requirements
- Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check.
- Relevant UK immigration requirements and Civil Service nationality rules apply.
- Vaccination may be required depending on the specific role (e.g., laboratory work).
Selection Process
Online application, test (details provided on application), interview, and selection panel assessment. Candidates are assessed against the Civil Service Success Profiles (Behaviour, Experience, Technical, Strengths).
Contact
For queries, email careers@mhra.gov.uk.
News and Issues Management Lead and News and Media Lead employer: Mhra
Contact Detail:
Mhra Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land News and Issues Management Lead and News and Media Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those who work at MHRA or similar organisations. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on what they’re really looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching current news and issues related to MHRA. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about the agency’s mission and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it’s writing press releases or delivering briefings, being articulate and confident is key. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to polish your delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace News and Issues Management Lead and News and Media Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the News and Issues Management Lead role. Highlight your experience in media relations and how it aligns with MHRA’s mission to protect public health.
Showcase Your Writing Skills: Since strong written communication is key, include examples of your writing in your application. Whether it's press releases or social media content, let us see your flair for clear and engaging communication.
Demonstrate Strategic Thinking: In your application, share instances where you've successfully managed high-profile news stories or developed strategies that align with organisational goals. We want to see your ability to think ahead and anticipate challenges.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at MHRA.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mhra
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into MHRA's mission and recent news. Understand their role in regulating medicines and medical devices, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their priorities. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect your skills to their needs.
✨Prepare for Media Scenarios
Given the nature of the role, think about potential high-profile media issues that could arise. Prepare responses or strategies on how you would handle these situations. This will demonstrate your proactive thinking and ability to manage crises effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since strong communication is key, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock interviews with a friend or recording yourself to refine your delivery. Highlight specific examples from your past roles where your communication made a difference.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
During the interview, aim to build a connection with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their experiences at MHRA and share relevant anecdotes from your own career. This not only makes you memorable but also shows your interpersonal skills, which are crucial for the role.
