Lead Media Relations Manager - Pennon Group

At Pennon Group, we’re proud to be leading the way in the water and renewables industries. Alongside our subsidiaries - South West Water, Bristol Water, Bournemouth Water, Pennon Water Services and Pennon Power - we’re committed to delivering a sustainable future for our region. Because we know that by continually driving up our standards today, we’ll build a better tomorrow for our communities.

Great opportunity for a Lead Media Relations Manager to join Pennon Group's external communications team on a permanent basis for a salary of £50,000 - £55,000 plus amazing benefits.

About the role: As Lead Media Relations Manager you’ll have a strategic and hands-on role, where you’ll be responsible for shaping and safeguarding the reputation of Pennon Group through proactive and reactive media engagement. Reporting to the Group Director of External Relations, the role involves managing key media relationships, crafting compelling narratives, and responding effectively to media inquiries and crises. Your role will be critical in delivering the Pennon Group’s communications strategy, enhancing its external profile, and aligning all media activities with the company’s corporate priorities, values, and long-term vision.

What you’ll be doing:

• Develop and execute a proactive media relations strategy that aligns with corporate goals and enhances Pennon’s reputation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key journalists and media outlets at local, regional, and national levels.
• Identify, create, and pitch compelling stories that position Pennon as an industry leader.
• Act as a primary point of contact for media inquiries, ensuring timely and accurate responses.
• Lead crisis communication efforts, managing reputational risks and ensuring consistent messaging across all channels.
• Monitor and analyse media coverage, providing actionable insights to senior leadership.
• Write and edit high-quality press releases, statements, and media materials that translate complex business information into clear, engaging narratives.
• Oversee the creation of media content, including speeches, briefings, and Q&A documents for senior executives.
• Work closely with Public Affairs, Internal Communications, Customer Service, and other departments to ensure a unified approach to communications.
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, providing guidance on media strategies and opportunities.
• Collaborate with external agencies and partners to maximise the impact of media campaigns.
• Manage agency relationships for PR and media support, ensuring alignment with Pennon’s strategic objectives.
• Mentor team members and provide leadership in media relations best practices.

What we’re looking for:

• Proven experience in media relations, corporate communications, or journalism.
• A strong track record of managing media engagement, including crisis communications.
• Experience working closely with senior leadership to shape and deliver key messages.
• Knowledge of regulated industries or utilities is desirable.
• Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with expertise in creating clear, concise, and engaging content.
• Deep understanding of the UK media landscape, including print, broadcast, and digital platforms.
• Thriving in a dynamic, fast-paced environment that requires strategic thinking and quick decision-making.
• Confident with building and maintaining strong media relationships to enhance Pennon’s reputation.
• Creating compelling narratives that support corporate priorities and resonate with stakeholders.

We know that the support and commitment of our staff is key to our success so you will receive the opportunity for ongoing development and training for a long-term career with us. We’re one of the largest companies in the South West and are proud to have been awarded Investors in People recognition. In return, we offer an excellent range of benefits including:

• Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays.
• A discretionary Bonus.
• Competitive Contributory Pension.
• Share-save Scheme.
• A range of Group Discounts.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Financial support services.
• And plenty more!

Be yourself, we like it that way. Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where inclusion is instinctive. Diversity is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness. Our core values which are essential to our success are:

• Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on.
• Be You - We want you to bring your best every day. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
• Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.