Media Relations Lead

The Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade (CIOE&IT) is looking to appoint a new Media Relations Lead, a key role within its corporate affairs department. The role holder will lead the Chartered Institute’s media engagement, serving as the first point of contact for journalist enquiries and proactively driving interest in our work and expertise. The Media Relations Lead will be responsible for driving a proactive media strategy which aligns with business objectives and values, working closely with colleagues in the corporate affairs department and wider organisation. The successful candidate will report to the corporate affairs director and will need exceptional communication skills, a proven ability to secure print and broadcast coverage (including global tier 1) and a keen interest in international trade. Experience in a fast‑paced, proactive work environment such as a PR consultancy would be an advantage.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Own the Chartered Institute’s media relations strategy to effectively engage outlets relevant to, or interested in, CIOE&IT and its work.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with media outlets, journalists and thought leaders in international trade, including HM Government stakeholders.
• Secure coverage through pitching story ideas, news releases, CIOE&IT research, commentary and expertise to national and international media.
• Manage reactive media interest in an effective, timely manner.
• Proactively pitch ‘reaction comments’ from experts on relevant international trade developments and other relevant issues.
• Prepare high‑quality briefings for senior executives in advance of interviews and meetings with journalists.
• Play a key role in driving communication initiatives, including internal communications, events and awards, across the business, collaborating with colleagues in other departments.
• Monitor, analyse and report on media coverage (including social channels), its impact and value to the Chartered Institute using tools including Vuelio and Politico Pro.

KEY REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a similar role with a proven record of success working with global tier 1 media and securing coverage.
• Strong understanding and proven experience of working within the UK and international media landscape.
• Strong interpersonal skills with an ability to build trusted working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience building relationships with journalists.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritise workloads.
• You must be adept at prioritising competing demands, contending with fast‑moving events and handling unscheduled requests.
• Ability to distil complex information into clear and concise pitch and briefing materials.
• Excellent attention to detail, organisation and planning skills.
• Strong team player and collaborative mindset.

BENEFITS:

• 36.5 hours per week including 4pm Friday finish
• 25 days annual leave and day off for your birthday
• Annual discretionary performance‑related bonus
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Life Assurance (Salary x4)
• A range of discounts for shopping, holidays and cinema attendance
• 2 days volunteering a year

ABOUT THE CIOE&IT:

The Chartered Institute is the leading association of exporters and importers, providing education and training to professionalise the UK’s international traders. Founded in 1935, we were granted a Royal Charter by His Majesty King Charles III in 2023 in recognition of our contribution to international trade. With offices in Peterborough, London, Brussels and Nairobi (Kenya), the CIOE&IT is fast‑growing as demand for our digital training and education products grows after the UK’s transition from the EU. As a partner with UK government, we deliver national and international programmes, acting as champions for the UK, and establishing UK processes and standards globally.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION:

Life would be boring if we were all the same. The CIOE&IT is a company with a charitable status that believes in diversity and inclusion, as shown in the hiring and progression of our team members. The CIOE&IT’s workforce is truly diverse – in age, nationality, gender and location. With a passion for nurturing, supporting and including all team members – no matter who you are – we celebrate identity. We are proud of who we are and where we come from. As an Investors in People accredited organisation, we care about and prioritise all our team members daily. We ensure to engage with and listen to everyone. Our Disability Confident and Mindful Employer accreditations express our commitment to the specialist needs and mental health of CIOE&IT team members. Having family‑friendly policies enables our employees to partake in a flexible work environment so they can take care of children and loved ones.

HOW TO APPLY:

Fill in your details below and upload your CV for review by the Talent Acquisition team. If you are having difficulty completing the application and would like some support or if you have questions, please contact our Head of Talent Acquisition, Gary Watson on: 01733 404 400 g.watson@export.org.uk