At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead media relations, manage journalist relationships, and drive strategic communication initiatives.
- Company: A leading global law firm with a dynamic corporate communications team.
- Benefits: High-visibility role, opportunity to shape external communications, and support key stakeholders.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a global environment and enhance the organisation's reputation through storytelling.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in PR or communications, excellent writing skills, and strong organisational abilities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for creative thinking and project management.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Our leading global law firm client is seeking a Senior Media Relations Specialist to join its London Corporate Communications team. This role is ideal for an experienced PR or communications professional who excels at media strategy, storytelling, and managing high‐impact external communications.
Role Overview
You will lead media relations activities for key practice areas, manage relationships with journalists, and help drive strategic communication initiatives. This includes handling media enquiries, developing press materials, pitching stories, preparing spokespeople, and monitoring media coverage. You'll collaborate with internal teams—including marketing, social media, and leadership—to enhance visibility and support broader business goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Respond to daily journalist enquiries, conduct conflict checks, and research media outlets and reporters.
- Build, update, and maintain targeted media lists.
- Cultivate strong relationships with business, legal, and industry journalists.
- Pitch stories, coordinate interviews, and advise attorneys and subject‐matter experts on messaging.
- Draft press releases, announcements, and other PR content to elevate the organisation's profile.
- Track and analyse media coverage and support internal reporting.
- Draft and edit submissions for awards and industry recognitions (e.g., 40 Under 40).
- Support internal media training and facilitate the placement of bylined or thought‐leadership articles.
- Collaborate with marketing, digital, social media, and video teams to amplify content.
- Contribute to crisis communications efforts as needed.
- Assist with campaign ideation, research, reporting, and development of new communications initiatives.
Requirements
- Undergraduate degree in marketing, communications, business, or a related field.
- 5+ years' experience in PR or communications within B2B, financial services, or legal industries; agency experience helpful but not required.
- Strong understanding of the media landscape and major outlets.
- Excellent writing, editing, messaging, and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to translate complex subject matter into accessible content.
- Strong organisational, project management, and prioritisation abilities; exceptional attention to detail.
- Creative thinker with the ability to lead multiple projects independently.
- Positive, energetic, collaborative attitude and ability to adapt to changing needs.
- Sound judgment and ability to elevate issues appropriately.
- Flexibility to adjust work schedule in line with workload.
What This Role Offers
This is a high‐visibility opportunity to shape external communications, strengthen media presence, and contribute to strategic initiatives within a dynamic global environment. You will play a central role in building the organisation's reputation, supporting key stakeholders, and driving impactful storytelling across multiple channels.
Senior Media Relations Specialist in Westminster employer: Ryder Reid
Contact Detail:
Ryder Reid Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Media Relations Specialist in Westminster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the media and communications field. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. Building relationships can open doors that job applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your storytelling skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share examples of how you've successfully managed media relations or crafted compelling narratives. This will demonstrate your expertise and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a company you're keen on, don’t wait for them to post a job. Reach out directly through our website, express your interest, and highlight how your skills align with their needs. It shows initiative and can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow relevant news and publications to keep your finger on the pulse of the media landscape. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also position you as a knowledgeable candidate who can contribute to strategic initiatives.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Media Relations Specialist in Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Media Relations Specialist role. Highlight your experience in media strategy and storytelling, and don’t forget to mention any relevant achievements that align with our needs.
Showcase Your Writing Skills: Since this role requires excellent writing and editing skills, include samples of your work if possible. Whether it’s press releases or articles, let us see how you can translate complex ideas into engaging content.
Research is Key: Before applying, do a bit of homework on our firm and the media landscape. Understanding our key practice areas and recent news will help you craft a more compelling application and show us you’re genuinely interested.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people and shows us you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ryder Reid
✨Know Your Media Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding the media landscape relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with key journalists, major outlets, and current trends in legal communications. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your proactive approach.
✨Craft Your Storytelling Skills
As a Senior Media Relations Specialist, storytelling is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully pitched stories or managed media relations in the past. Be ready to discuss specific campaigns and their outcomes, showcasing your ability to translate complex topics into engaging narratives.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
This role involves working closely with various teams. Highlight your experience in collaborating with marketing, social media, and leadership. Share instances where your teamwork led to successful communication initiatives, emphasising your positive and adaptable attitude.
✨Prepare for Crisis Communication Scenarios
Given the nature of the role, be prepared to discuss how you would handle crisis communications. Think of examples from your past experiences where you navigated challenging situations effectively. This will demonstrate your sound judgment and ability to elevate issues appropriately.