Description
The Ministry of Defence is seeking a talented and motivated Press Officer to join one of government's busiest and highest-profile news teams.
The successful candidate will be responsible for managing media coverage and communications relating to military policy across the UK and around the globe – from the UK's response to the war in Ukraine to the latest technology and equipment being developed for defence.
The post holder will be expected to engage with national and international media (print, broadcast and digital), working closely with ministers, military officials, policy teams and No10 Downing Street to deliver proactive and reactive communications.
The Ministry of Defence is looking for those who enjoy delivering interesting and diverse communications at pace to continue to enhance the reputation of the department, UK Government and Armed Forces; and to support global security and stability.
You will be expected to work from the Ministry of Defence's Whitehall Office for the majority of the time.
Job description
The Ministry of Defence – including the Royal Navy, the British Army, and the Royal Air Force – are subject to intense public, parliamentary and media scrutiny.
You will be responsible for delivering successful proactive and reactive communications which protect and enhance the reputation of the department and the Armed Forces.
You will:
- Respond to enquiries from national, international, regional, consumer and digital media outlets to enhance and protect the reputation of the department, ministers and senior military officers.
- Draft press releases, statements, and briefings for senior spokespeople, Ministers and the military.
- Manage media arrangements at a range of high-profile events.
- Provide professional and comprehensive communications advice to ministers, military officers, senior officials, special advisors, and members of the Directorate of Defence Communications.
As part of the News team, you will report to a Senior Communications Officer.
You will take part in the out-of-hours duty rota, dealing with media enquiries across the full breadth of the MOD's responsibilities. This can involve occasional overnight stays in MOD accommodation, for which a generous allowance is paid.
Communication areas you will cover include, but are not restricted to:
- Military Operations overseas
- Equipment procurement and latest technology being developed in Defence
- Lawfare and wider Defence policy issues that affect how the UK Armed Forces operate.
The role will provide opportunities for travel, both within the UK and abroad and wider media minding asks from across the directorate.
Person specification
Essential criteria include:
- Excellent understanding of the media and social media landscape.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- The discretion to handle classified and sensitive information pertaining to global military operations.
- Confidence and good judgement, as successful candidates will be required to become a trusted adviser to ministers and senior military officers.
Desirable criteria include:
- A proven record of working either in a media/press office environment, or in defence/international affairs.
- Experience of news management in PR or journalism.
- Experience of using social media and evaluating communications.
Benefits
Alongside your salary of £37,720, Ministry of Defence contributes £10,927 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.
- Learning and development tailored to your role
- An environment with flexible working options
- A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
- A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
- Free use of Gym at Main Building
- Season ticket advance to assist with travel costs to/from home and your permanent work location