Media Relations Manager

About the role

We are looking for a confident, results-driven, and self-motivated communicator with a sharp instinct for news to join our media relations team. If you thrive on telling compelling stories, spotting headline-grabbing opportunities, and shaping public conversations, this role is for you!

This is an exciting, high-impact role where you will proactively champion the University’s world-leading research, global impact, and diverse campus community. From uncovering groundbreaking discoveries to sharing the inspiring stories of our students and staff, you will be at the heart of Sussex’s media presence.

You will craft compelling press releases, opinion pieces, and media materials that highlight Sussex’s achievements and thought leadership. Your writing will showcase the University’s strengths, ensuring its voice is heard across various platforms.

You will lead innovative media campaigns that amplify our research and institutional priorities, reaching local, national, and global audiences.

Providing strategic media and social media advice to senior leaders, you will help shape a forward-thinking and competitive approach. You will proactively place academic insights in breaking stories.

Handling sensitive media issues with professionalism and care, you will also collaborate closely with academics, students, and staff to identify and develop newsworthy stories.

About you

The ideal candidate will be an experienced communications practitioner with a strong news sense, top media handling skills, and an approach to teamwork. They will have a keen ability to transform complex subject matters into engaging copy and content.

Candidates should have proven experience in media relations, PR, or journalism, along with excellent writing, editing, and communication skills. Strong diplomatic abilities will be essential, as the role requires influencing stakeholders to achieve desired outcomes.

The ability to work under pressure and manage multiple deadlines is crucial. Candidates should also possess an expert understanding of the media landscape and digital communications. Experience across various public relations elements—(media relations, campaigns, event management, video production, and social media)—is highly desirable.

In addition, some out of office, evening and weekend may be necessary. As part of a duty rota, the post-holder will be required to respond to emergencies and/or incidents at other times outside of the core hours. Compensatory time for out-of-hours work will be given.

About our Division

Please find further information regarding the division at Communications, Engagement and Advancement: University of Sussex

Why work here

Find out more about our reward and benefits package.

Find out about our equality, diversity and inclusion

Further Key Information

Please contact Jon Street (j.street@sussex.ac.uk) for informal enquiries.

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