Strategic Communications & PR Lead

Exeter Chiefs; Exeter; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Exeter Rugby Club seeks a Head of Communications & Public Relations to lead all internal and external communications, media relations and content output for Exeter Chiefs and Sandy Park venues. You will shape the Club’s narrative, oversee matchday and digital communications, manage media relationships, and ensure messaging reflects our rugby heritage and values.

This role deputises for the Commercial Director, guiding the Commercial Team and ensuring alignment with strategic objectives while

Qualifications

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including press and editorial writing.
• Proven experience managing media relations and social media channels.
• Ability to work calmly under pressure in live, fast-paced environments.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience working within professional sport or rugby union.
• Degree in communications, journalism or a related discipline.

Responsibilities

• Lead all media relations for the Club across men’s, women’s, academy and community rugby.
• Act as, or manage, the Press Officer function for home fixtures and provide support at away fixtures when required.
• Produce press releases, match reports, news stories and official statements.
• Maintain strong working relationships with journalists, broadcasters, leagues and governing bodies.
• Provide media training to all squads, coaches and staff as required, including academy.
• Lead matchday content delivery including previews, live updates, interviews and post-match coverage.
• Develop compelling storytelling around players, teams, community initiatives and partners.
• Line manage the Media/Sportswriter.
• Ensure all content meets high editorial, creative and brand standards.
• Ensure clear and consistent communications across internal departments.
• Support partnership and sponsor communications through content, media exposure and storytelling.
• Protect and enhance the Club’s reputation through accurate, timely and values-led communications.

Skills

Media relations

Content storytelling

Press writing

Media training

Team collaboration

Education

Degree in communications/journalism

Job description

Exeter Rugby Club seeks a Head of Communications & Public Relations to lead all internal and external communications, media relations and content output for Exeter Chiefs and Sandy Park venues. You will shape the Club’s narrative, oversee matchday and digital communications, manage media relationships, and ensure messaging reflects our rugby heritage and values.

This role deputises for the Commercial Director, guiding the Commercial Team and ensuring alignment with strategic objectives while