PR Officer49,200 plus great benefits (Work Level 6A)Location: Manchester/Scunthorpe (hybrid working – typically two days per week spent across our Manchester and Scunthorpe offices, with at least one day each week based in Scunthorpe)Co-op Wholesale is growing, and we're looking for people who want to help shape what comes next. As a PR Officer in our Customer Experience (CX) team, you'll deliver proactive media relations, press activity, and content that strengthens our voice in the market. Working closely with our PR and Social Manager, you'll bring our brand to life in trade media, raise awareness of our commercial propositions, and position Co-op Wholesale as a trusted, progressive voice in the wholesale, franchise and convenience space.
This is a really varied role where you'll manage day-to-day media engagement, develop stories, support press campaigns, and respond to media enquiries. You'll also play a key part in our awards strategy and case study pipeline, creating engaging content that showcases the impact we make for our partners.
Why this role mattersWe're building something big at Co-op Wholesale. With a refreshed structure and exciting plans ahead, we're creating new opportunities to strengthen our proposition for our independent retailers, key accounts, and a growing corporate client base. To do that, we need to make sure we're protecting and strengthening the reputation of our brand, and positioning ourselves in the best way possible.
This is your chance to help bring new ideas to life and make a real impact across Co-op Wholesale. Be part of it. What you'll doBuild and manage relationships with key trade and B2B media, securing regular and relevant coverage that serves our wider corporate objectives of awareness and growthManage press office activity namely store launches, franchise openings, corporate announcements, and contract extensions, handling inbound enquiries and ensuring accurate, timely responsesSupport with reactive comms and issue management in a highly professional capacityDevelop press releases, media statements, photography briefs, editorial pitches, trade features and thought leadership content aligned to our brand strategyHelp deliver and shape integrated media campaigns that drive awareness of new initiatives, partnerships, or milestonesCollaborate with internal teams and join working groups to uncover media-worthy stories, represent the PR team and amplify leadership voicesSupport industry award submissions and create case studies for use across media, social and eventsHelp seek new media opportunities to develop Co-op Wholesale's media presenceWhat you'll bringProven experience in PR media relations within a B2B, retail, FMCG, or agency environmentExperience supporting issue communications and managing media protocols under pressureExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to create strong media copy and respond confidently to journalist queriesThe ability to spot a good story and an understanding of what makes content newsworthyA proactive, positive, collaborative approach and confidence working with people at all levels of seniorityWhy Co-op? At Co-op, we're owned by our members.
And because we're owned by you, we can do right by you. So when you join us, you're not just taking a job, you're joining a movement. We're an organisation that puts people and communities first, and we're powered by purpose.
We want this to be a place where you can thrive, so you'll also receive: An annual bonus (based on personal and business performance)28 days holiday (rising to 32 with service) plus bank holidaysA pension with up to 10% employer contributions30% discount on Co-op products and 10% off other brandsStream – early access to a percentage of your pay as you earn itVirtual healthcare including GP appointments, mental health support, nutrition and fitness advice24/7 colleague support serviceTraining and support for your development and career progressionCycle-to-work schemeA place you'll belongWe're building diverse teams that reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from everyone, and our support centre is an inclusive environment where all our colleagues can thrive.
If you have a disability, we'll make reasonable adjustments to support you through the recruitment process. We're also proud to be part of the Disability Confident scheme - if you're disabled and you meet the minimum criteria for this job, we'll guarantee you an interview.
Learn more about our recruitment process at our commitments to diversity, inclusion and wellbeing at part of your application, you'll need to complete an online assessment. This assessment typically takes up to 50 minutes. If you're a current Co-op colleague, this does not need to be completed. Posting Date: 2026-09-09
PR Officer in Scunthorpe employer: The Co-Operative Group
Co-op Legal Services is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of its employees and the communities it serves. With a strong focus on professional development, you will have access to coaching and training opportunities, alongside a competitive benefits package including private healthcare and a generous pension scheme. Our inclusive work culture fosters diversity and belonging, making it a rewarding place to build your career in Manchester, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Bristol, or Sheffield.
