UK Biobank

Press Manager

UK Biobank

full-time

Posted on:

Location Type: Hybrid

Location: London • United Kingdom

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Salary

💰 £51,566 per year

About the role

  • Developing the Press Office: help shape how a newly formed but very successful Press Office embeds best practice by bringing in your expertise. You will define how we manage information, relationships, workflows and analysis so that the team is ready to seize opportunities, respond to emerging issues and maximise its impact.
  • Team management & oversight: line manage the Press Officer, providing day-to-day oversight and guidance; ensure clear workflow, prioritisation and development opportunities; lead press office operations in the absence of the Head of Press.
  • Proactive storytelling to build profile: find and champion compelling stories; identify media opportunities aligned with UK Biobank’s strategic goals; work directly with researchers and spokespeople to shape narratives that resonate with key audiences, ensuring they are briefed and trained for media.
  • Press materials & copywriting: draft high-quality press releases, statements, op-eds and briefings; ensure alignment with organisational voice and messaging. Coordinate sign off systems and manage distribution once agreed.
  • Coverage monitoring & evaluation: lead strategic reporting and analysis of media coverage trends and insights; prepare briefings for colleagues including senior leadership on implications and opportunities; evaluate impact of media activities across key channels and audiences.

Requirements

  • Significant experience working in a senior press or media relations role at managerial or senior level, ideally in a science, health or academic setting.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead high-profile communications activity, including managing press during breaking news situations.
  • Strategic thinking with a strong news sense and ability to translate complex information for mainstream and specialist audiences.
  • Confidence working with senior leadership and high-profile spokespeople, including providing media training and coaching.
  • Strong planning, prioritisation and crisis management abilities.
  • Advanced understanding of media channels (print, broadcast, digital) and their role in reputation building.
Benefits
  • 26 Days’ Annual Leave - Plus Bank Holidays, increasing with length of service.
  • Holiday Buy Scheme - Purchase up to one additional week of leave per year.
  • Birthday Leave - Enjoy a paid day off to celebrate your birthday.
  • USS Pension Scheme - Hybrid defined benefit/defined contribution pension plan.
  • Healthcare Cash Plan - Claim back costs for everyday health expenses.
  • Enhanced Family Leave - Subject to eligibility.
  • Cycle to Work Scheme - Save on a new bike and accessories.
  • Season Ticket Loan - Interest-free loan to help with commuting costs.
  • Professional Subscriptions - Reimbursement where applicable.
  • Learning budget - Annual funds for courses, books, or anything else that fuels your personal and professional growth.
  • Employee Discounts Portal - Access to savings across retail, travel, and more.
  • Employee Assistance Programme - Confidential support for personal and work-related issues.
  • Annual Flu Vaccination - Stay protected with free flu jabs.
  • Life Assurance Cover - Financial protection for your loved ones.
Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools
copywritingmedia relationsstrategic reportingmedia trainingcrisis managementstorytellingpress release draftingevaluation of media activitiesworkflow managementrelationship management
Soft Skills
team managementstrategic thinkingplanningprioritisationcommunicationleadershipconfidenceadaptabilityanalytical thinkingproblem-solving