At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead media relations strategy and shape compelling communications for a respected financial services brand.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on creativity, collaboration, and community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, corporate bonus, 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 in a role that enhances reputation and builds trust in the financial sector.
- Qualifications: Proven media relations experience with strong writing and strategic communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ 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?
- 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 employer: Newcastle Building Society
As a Strategic Media Relations Leader at our Group, you'll be part of a dynamic team that prioritises creativity, collaboration, and community connection. We offer a competitive salary, generous benefits including a corporate bonus scheme, flexible working arrangements, and a strong commitment to employee wellbeing and growth, all within a supportive and 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
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant online groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company and its media strategy thoroughly. Think about how your skills can enhance their reputation and come up with examples of your past successes in media relations. Confidence is key, so practice your pitch!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your storytelling skills! Whether it’s through a personal blog or social media, share your insights on market trends and media strategies. This not only demonstrates your expertise but also helps you build a personal brand that stands out.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining us. Tailor your application to highlight how you can contribute to our mission of building trust and enhancing our brand in the financial services landscape.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Media Relations Leader — Hybrid
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 weave in examples that showcase your strategic mindset and storytelling skills.
Tailor Your Approach: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 background in financial services or regulated sectors makes 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 metrics or specific outcomes from your media engagement efforts. This will help us understand the impact you can bring to our communications strategy.
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 this exciting opportunity with StudySmarter.
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 help you discuss how you can enhance the Group's media relations strategy.
✨Craft Your Communication Narrative
Prepare a clear and compelling narrative about your own professional journey. Think about how your experiences align with the job description, particularly in managing media relationships and crisis communications. Practising this will help you articulate your value effectively during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've successfully implemented a media strategy or handled a crisis. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. This will demonstrate your strategic thinking and ability to operate confidently in complex environments.
✨Engage with Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask your interviewers about their media engagement strategies and how they measure success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company culture aligns with your values, especially around collaboration and continuous improvement.
