At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead media outreach and communicate the value of universities across various platforms.
- Company: Universities UK, representing 142 universities in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful role, and opportunity to shape public perception.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team at a pivotal moment for higher education.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in how higher education is perceived nationwide.
- Qualifications: Experience in media relations and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
UUK is the collective voice for 142 universities in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. As world leaders in research, teaching and innovation, our members are vital to the government’s growth and opportunity missions.
This is a pivotal moment for universities. Working with its members, Universities UK is undertaking a major programme of work to shift the dial on perceptions of higher education over the next four years.
The post-holder will spearhead proactive media outreach for our Future Universities programme, communicating the value that universities deliver across the country.
Our Head of Media is a senior role within our Communications Directorate, overseeing a busy and impactful media team, leading our presence across print, broadcast, podcast and digital media outlets.
Interviews are expected to take place on Monday 13 July 2026.
Head of Media employer: Universities UK
At Universities UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions innovation and collaboration within the higher education sector. Our dynamic work culture fosters creativity and inclusivity, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Located at the heart of the UK's educational landscape, we offer a unique chance to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive environment that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Media
✨Get Involved in PR Events
Dive into local PR meetups and workshops. Events like these are perfect for getting your face out there, chatting with industry pros, and spotting potential job openings at companies like Universities UK. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to learn about trends and make lasting connections.
✨Showcase Your PR Skills
Start building your personal brand as a PR ace. Use platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn to share your thoughts on current events or PR campaigns you admire. Tagging companies you want to work for, like Universities UK, can catch their eye—especially if your insights resonate!
✨Leverage Your Network
Reach out to friends, family, or connections in the PR field. Even a casual chat can lead to opportunities. If you've got mutual contacts, ask for introductions when applying. Personal recommendations can give your application a nice little boost!
✨Tailor Your Approach
When applying for a full-time PR role, make sure to research Universities UK inside and out. Understanding their campaigns, values, and style allows us to directly align our application and impress during interviews. Don't hesitate to apply through our website—going direct can make a real difference!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Media
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get Your Story Straight:In public relations, storytelling is everything! Make sure your CV highlights your experience in crafting compelling narratives and managing media relations. Share specific examples of campaigns you've worked on, and don’t forget to include any press coverage you've generated—it's impressive proof of your skills!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since PR is all about communication, we want to see your best writing samples. Include pieces like press releases, blog posts, or social media content that you've created. This gives us a taste of your voice and your ability to convey messages clearly and effectively, which is crucial for a role in this field.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be more than just a recap of your CV; it’s your chance to shine! Emphasise why PR excites you and how your background fits with the mission of Universities UK. Show us that you’ve done your homework and speak to why you’re passionate about the work we do.
Connect the Dots:When you’re writing your application, think about how your past experiences link to the responsibilities of the role. Mention any internships, volunteer work, or projects that involved public speaking, event planning, or strategic communication. This will help us see how you can seamlessly bring your skills into a full-time position at Universities UK.
How to prepare for a job interview at Universities UK
✨Master the Art of Storytelling
In public relations, storytelling is key. We should prepare compelling narratives about past campaigns or projects we’ve worked on. Think about how we can illustrate our impact and creativity in those stories—be ready to discuss specific examples that showcase our skills in managing media relationships and crafting messages.
✨Know Your PR Tools Inside Out
Familiarity with PR tools like Cision or Meltwater is crucial. We need to be able to discuss how we’ve used these tools in past roles or projects. If we've worked on media lists, press releases, or analytics reports, let’s have those experiences ready to share along with metrics we’ve achieved to back up our claims.
✨Stay Current with Industry Trends
We’ve got to stay sharp on the latest trends and events impacting the public relations field. Having a few insights ready about recent campaigns or shifts in media landscapes can show that we’re engaged and knowledgeable. This will also help us make connections between our experiences and the current state of the industry.
✨Showcase Our Versatility
As full-time PR professionals, we need to demonstrate our adaptability. Be ready to talk about how we've handled challenging situations, managed crises, or adapted strategies on the fly. Employers will appreciate our ability to pivot and find solutions under pressure, so let’s have those scenarios at our fingertips to discuss.
