Media Relations Officer

b Overview /b p In this role you will safeguard and enhance Sheffield City Council’s reputation by managing media inquiries, shaping council narratives and advising officers and elected Members. You’ll craft compelling stories, write statements and releases, and build strong journalist relations to support council priorities. You’ll handle sensitive issues with timely, accurate communication across the public and media. The role includes out-of-hours on-call participation within an ambitious, supportive team. /p b Pay / Benefits /b ul li flexible working opportunities /li li generous holiday entitlement /li li job share options /li li reduced hours or part-time arrangements /li li supportive and ambitious team /li li equality and safeguarding commitments /li /ul b Responsibilities /b ul li Manage media inquiries and secure positive coverage /li li Develop compelling stories and write media releases and statements /li li Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists /li li Coordinate and deliver communications campaigns aligning with council priorities /li li Provide expert communications advice to officers, senior leaders and elected Members /li li Handle sensitive and complex issues with clarity and timeliness /li li Collaborate with cross-functional teams to shape public messaging /li li Support flexible and inclusive working practices within the team /li /ul b Key requirements /b ul li Experience in media relations, journalism, public relations or communications within a large and complex organisation /li li Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities /li li Skill in turning complex information into clear, engaging content /li li Knowledge of media landscape and how to secure coverage /li li Strong judgement and ability to provide credible communications advice /li /ul ul li calm under pressure /li li strong judgement /li li relationship-building /li li media relations /li li press releases and statements /li li crisis/issue communications /li /ul