At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead media relations strategy and shape compelling communications for a respected financial services brand.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in a leading financial services group with a focus on creativity and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, corporate bonuses, flexible working, and generous leave policies.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diversity and offers excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by enhancing our reputation and building trust in the financial sector.
- Qualifications: Proven media relations experience, strong writing skills, and ability to advise senior leaders.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
As our Press Office & Media Manager, you’ll lead the Group’s media relations strategy, playing a central role in protecting and enhancing our reputation across the UK financial services landscape. You’ll shape and deliver a clear, compelling communications narrative that builds trust, strengthens our brand and positions the Group as a credible and respected voice within the sector.
You’ll be responsible for an integrated programme of media engagement, acting as the primary point of contact for journalists and managing both proactive and reactive press office activity. This includes drafting and distributing media releases, statements, briefings and thought leadership content, as well as identifying opportunities to comment on market trends across print, broadcast and digital channels.
Working closely with the Senior Leadership team and colleagues across all areas of the business, you’ll provide trusted advice on reputational risk, lead crisis and issue management, and support Senior Executives through media briefing and training. You’ll also oversee media monitoring and reporting, manage budgets and third-party PR agencies. In addition, you’ll support the development of business-critical corporate publications such as the Annual and Half Year Reports and Annual General Meeting materials, ensuring all communications meet regulatory and compliance standards.
About You
You’re an experienced media relations professional with strong judgement, gravitas and the ability to operate confidently in a regulated, complex environment. You combine excellent writing and storytelling skills with a strategic mindset and a calm, considered approach under pressure. You’ll bring proven experience of managing media relationships and delivering impactful communications, ideally within Financial Services or other regulated sectors. You’re comfortable advising senior leaders, handling sensitive issues and leading crisis or issues communications with clarity and confidence. You’re collaborative by nature, able to build strong relationships across an organisation and influence at all levels. With a continuous improvement mindset, you’re proactive in spotting opportunities, anticipating risk and raising the bar for communication standards, insight and impact.
About Us
Our purpose is clear: to offer accessible financial products, sound advice, and a brand experience that’s as trustworthy online as it is in person. You’ll be joining a team that values creativity, collaboration and real connection. Whether we’re supporting community causes, launching new campaigns, or refining our digital platforms, we’re united by a belief that purposeful content has the power to make mutual values feel meaningful to every audience. As an inclusive employer and member owned mutual, we aim to reflect the diverse communities we serve and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We believe everyone should feel valued, respected, and celebrated for who they are, we want colleagues to feel this is a place they belong. A place to be you.
What do you get in return?
- As well as receiving a competitive annual salary based on above-market pay scales, our reward package includes:
- Corporate bonus scheme (on target 10%, up to a maximum 15%)
- Pension scheme (up to 9% employer contribution)
- Annual performance related pay reviews
- Electric car salary sacrifice scheme
- Life assurance (4x salary) and income protection
- Access to our financial advisers
- Access to a range of high street and online discounts
- A 35-hour weekly contract - We are happy to talk flexible working and welcome discussions
- 30 days’ annual leave + bank holidays
- The option to buy and sell up to 5 days’ holiday
- Hybrid working (typically 3 days’ home based)
- Above statutory family leave entitlement - 3 months full pay, 3 months half pay, regardless of gender or route to parenthood
- Private medical insurance
- Access to a health cash plan through a Medicash scheme
- Access to an employee assistance programme
- Free onsite gym at our Cobalt head office and access to discounted gyms
- Two paid volunteering days each year
- Cycle to work scheme
Strategic Media Relations Leader — Hybrid in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Newcastle Building Society
As a Strategic Media Relations Leader at our Group, you'll be part of a dynamic team that champions creativity and collaboration in the heart of the UK financial services sector. We offer a competitive salary, generous benefits including a corporate bonus scheme, flexible working arrangements, and a strong commitment to employee wellbeing and growth, ensuring you thrive both professionally and personally in an inclusive environment that values diversity and belonging.
Contact Details:
Newcastle Building Society Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Media Relations Leader — Hybrid in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work in media relations. Include press releases, articles, and any thought leadership pieces you've crafted. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its media presence. Understand their brand narrative and think about how you can contribute to enhancing it. Be ready to discuss how you’d handle specific media scenarios relevant to the financial services sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team and contributing to our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Media Relations Leader — Hybrid in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft Your Narrative:When you’re writing your application, think of it as telling your story. Highlight your experience in media relations and how it aligns with our mission at StudySmarter. Make sure to showcase your storytelling skills – we love a good narrative!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Strategic Media Relations Leader role. Show us how your skills and experiences make you the perfect fit for our team.
Showcase Your Impact:We want to see how you’ve made a difference in your previous roles. Include examples of successful media strategies or campaigns you’ve led, especially in regulated environments like financial services. Numbers and outcomes speak volumes!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newcastle Building Society
✨Know Your Media Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into the current media landscape, especially within financial services. Familiarise yourself with key journalists, publications, and recent trends. This will not only show your passion for the role but also demonstrate your strategic mindset.
✨Craft Your Communication Narrative
Prepare a clear and compelling narrative about your own professional journey. Think about how your experiences align with the Group's mission and values. Be ready to articulate how you can enhance their reputation and build trust through effective media relations.
✨Showcase Your Crisis Management Skills
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've handled crisis communications in the past. Highlight your calm approach under pressure and your ability to provide trusted advice to senior leaders. This will illustrate your gravitas and judgement in complex situations.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with various teams, be ready to share examples of how you've built strong relationships across an organisation. Emphasise your collaborative nature and how it has led to successful outcomes in previous roles.
