Interim Head of Media

The Talent Set; London; Hybrid; GBP 200,000 +; Full time

Job summary

A leading charity organization in London is seeking an experienced Interim Head of Media to lead the media function during a transitional period. The role includes developing media strategies, managing a media team, and handling media relations to elevate the charity’s profile. Candidates should have significant experience in the charity sector and strong media contacts. The position offers a hybrid working pattern and a daily rate of up to £39 plus holiday pay.

Benefits

Hybrid working pattern

Daily rate and holiday pay

Potential for permanent contract

Qualifications

• Significant experience in a senior media role within the charity sector.
• Strong network of national media contacts.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to motivate teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement media strategies that align with organisational goals.
• Oversee day-to-day press office operations.
• Act as a key point of contact in managing sensitive media issues.

Skills

Media strategy development

Crisis communications

Team leadership

Media relations

Planning and organization

Job description

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Role Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Interim Head of Media to lead and manage the media function of a respected UK charity during a key transitional period. This is a pivotal role responsible for shaping and delivering high-impact media strategies that elevate the organisation's profile, support fundraising, and influence public and political discourse.

You will lead a dynamic media team and work cross-functionally with campaigns, digital, and policy colleagues to ensure consistent and compelling media coverage across all channels.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Develop and implement media strategies that align with organisational goals and drive engagement with target audiences.
2. Oversee day-to-day press office operations, ensuring responsive and proactive media engagement.
3. Act as a key point of contact in managing sensitive or high-profile media issues, providing expert guidance and crisis communications support.
4. Shape compelling narratives that bring the charity's work to life across national, regional, and trade media.
5. Work closely with senior leadership, spokespeople, and subject matter experts to prepare and support media appearances and briefings.
6. Lead, support, and develop a small team of media officers, ensuring clear priorities and a collaborative, high-performing culture.
7. Track and analyse media performance and sentiment, providing regular reports and insights to key stakeholders.

Person Specification:

1. Significant experience in a senior media role within the charity sector.
2. A strong network of national media contacts and a demonstrable track record of securing high-profile coverage.
3. Exceptional news sense, editorial judgement, and crisis communications skills.
4. Proven leadership experience with the ability to motivate and manage teams during periods of change or pressure.
5. Confident communicator, comfortable advising senior stakeholders and representing the organisation externally.
6. Ability to operate at both strategic and hands-on levels in a fast-paced environment.
7. Strong planning and organisational skills, with a proactive and solution-focused approach.
8. Understanding of the political and media landscape in the UK.

Whats on Offer:

1. A hybrid working pattern with 1 - 2 days per week in the Central London office.
2. A rate of up to £39 per day + £27.05 daily holiday for the successful candidate.
3. An initial 3-month contract with the potential to go permanent.

How to Apply:

To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the apply now button (please do not apply via email).

We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 72 working hours. Please note you must live and have the right to work in the UK as sponsorship cannot be offered.

Commitment to Diversity:

The Talent Set and our partner organisation are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, sexual orientation, disability, age, or gender. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.