Football Communications Lead in London

West Ham United is seeking an experienced and dynamic communications professional to join the Club in a senior leadership role within its Football Communications team. The successful candidate will be comfortable working directly with players, senior executives and the Head Coach, leading media activity, interviews, press conferences and matchday communications.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead media relations and communications support for the men’s first team football operation.
• Manage player and occasional Head Coach media requirements, interviews and press conferences.
• Oversee matchday media operations, accreditation and broadcaster obligations.
• Act as a key contact for media enquiries and reputation management.
• Draft statements, responses, press releases and key messaging.
• Monitor media coverage and manage emerging issues proactively.
• Work closely with the EFL and rights holders to ensure all contractual obligations are met.
• Develop relationships with national, regional and international media.
• Support commercial, community and Foundation initiatives involving first‑team players.
• Help deliver and implement the Club’s wider communications strategy.
• Participate in media monitoring and on‑call communications support when required.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in frontline sports media relations.
• Extensive matchday communications and press management experience.
• Strong crisis communications and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent writing, copywriting and communication skills.
• Dedicated and motivated personality with the ability to positively influence and lead others.
• Proven experience working with elite athletes, coaching staff and senior executives.
• Strong understanding of digital and social media.
• Established relationships with national and international media.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including evenings, weekends and travel.

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave plus your birthday off.
• Pension and life insurance.
• Healthcare cash scheme.
• Travel season ticket loan.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Priority access to apply for match tickets.
• Discounted season tickets.
• Staff discounts in the club store, café and partner products and services.
• Discounted gym membership and onsite fitness facilities.
• Family friendly leave policies.
• Company social events.

EDI Statement

The successful candidate must demonstrate a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, aligning with the organisation’s business and tactical approach to eliminating barriers and addressing inequity. Candidates must demonstrate their capability and willingness to uphold best practices and procedures, promoting lasting positive change while eliminating biases and barriers to attracting, achieving, and supporting talent from all communities, regardless of background, circumstances, or protected characteristics.

Safeguarding

The successful candidate must demonstrate a commitment to the safety and welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk of harm across all stakeholders. Successful candidates must undergo essential background checks before starting their employment, which may include screening of social media. The type of DBS check required will depend on the responsibilities of the position and may be basic, standard, or enhanced. The successful candidate agrees to proactively identify and respond appropriately to any concerns and follow the Club’s safeguarding reporting procedures to report allegations of abuse, poor practice, or anything that may impact the welfare of a child, young person or adult at risk within 24 hours.