News and Media Manager

Oldham is one of the UK's fastest‑changing boroughs in Greater Manchester, with major regeneration, ambitious public service reform and no shortage of stories to tell. We’re looking for an experienced Media Manager to lead our press office and help protect and enhance the council’s reputation. This is a role for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced news environment. You’ll build strong relationships with journalists, manage reactive media enquiries, identify proactive opportunities and provide trusted communication advice to senior leaders and elected members.

From breaking news and major announcements to sensitive issues and crisis communications, you’ll know how to respond with confidence, accuracy and professionalism. You’ll lead a small, talented team and work across everything from regeneration and culture to children’s services and the environment, ensuring our stories are told clearly, openly and effectively.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has significant experience working in a busy media or press office environment.
• Knows how to build positive relationships with local, regional and national journalists.
• Can write compelling press releases, statements, briefing notes and key messages at pace.
• Is calm under pressure and experienced in handling high‑profile and sensitive issues.
• Can provide strategic media advice to senior stakeholders and political leaders.
• Has excellent news judgement and a proactive approach to finding and shaping stories.
• Is an inspiring leader who can develop and support a high‑performing team.

In return, you’ll join an ambitious organisation at the heart of one of Greater Manchester’s most exciting transformation programmes, with the opportunity to work on projects that genuinely make a difference to people’s lives. If you’re an experienced communications professional who knows what makes a story, enjoys working with the media and wants to help shape the reputation of a borough that’s changing for the better, we’d love to hear from you.

Benefits Package:

• 25 days annual leave which increases after 5 and 10‑years’ service.
• The option to purchase additional annual leave.
• An attractive LGPS benefit pension scheme with the option to make shared‑cost additional voluntary contributions.
• Discounted gym membership with Oldham Active.
• Staff discount scheme for shopping, entertainment, eating‑out, eating‑in, travel, motoring and more.
• Salary sacrifice scheme for home and electronics and Cycle to Work.
• Wellbeing support, including a Mental Health First Aider network and an Employment Assistance Programme that provides 24 hours access to advice and support.
• Staff recognition and celebration events.
• Peer support groups.

Inclusive Recruitment: We work closely with employees to help them work at their best, including making adjustments such as flexible working, describing available working patterns, providing equipment or making changes to the workplace. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and therefore expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Unfortunately, at this time we are not able to offer sponsorship. If you have completed the GM Elevate (Leadership Development) Programme please indicate this within the ‘About You’ or ‘Supporting Statement’ section of your application. You’re an applicant with disabilities and have previously been in or currently in care, a carer, someone who has served in the Armed Forces, or you’ve participated in the GM Elevate Programme, and you meet the essential criteria of the role, you are guaranteed to reach the first stage of assessment under our Guaranteed Assessment Scheme.

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