Media Relations Manager

About the role

The University of Sussex is looking for a confident, results-driven, and self-motivated communicator with a sharp instinct for news to join our media relations team.

This is an exciting, high-impact role where you will proactively champion the University’s world-leading research, global impact, and diverse campus community.

In this dynamic role you will craft compelling press releases and media materials that highlight Sussex’s achievements and thought leadership.

You will lead innovative media campaigns to amplify our research and institutional priorities, reaching local, national, and global audiences. By building and maintaining strong relationships with journalists and media outlets, you will position Sussex as a trusted source for expert commentary.

Providing strategic media and social media advice to senior leaders, you will help shape a forward-thinking and competitive approach. Staying attuned to the news agenda, you will proactively place academic insights in breaking stories, ensuring Sussex remains relevant and the go to university for comment on key issues.

Handling sensitive media issues with professionalism and care, you will also collaborate closely with academics, students, and staff to identify and develop newsworthy stories. Additionally, you will track media coverage and campaign impact, refining strategies to maximise reach and effectiveness.

About you

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

To excel in this role, 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.

Equally important is the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues both within the team and across the wider organisation.

In addition, some out of office, evening and weekend working 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 (i.e. evening and weekends). 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.

For full details and how to apply, click the 'Apply' button above.

The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

The University requires that work undertaken for the University is performed in the UK. 

Visa Sponsorship Queries: This role may be eligible for sponsorship. Please consult our Skilled Worker Visa information page  for further information about Visa Sponsorship. 

Advert information