Media Relations Manager

As a Media Relations Manager at Greene King, your primary responsibilities include managing the busy press office, responding to various media inquiries, and ensuring the company's reputation is upheld through effective communication. You will build relationships with key media outlets, monitor and evaluate media coverage, and support the corporate team's social media activities. Additionally, you will handle communications related to investments and disposals, prepare press releases, and manage stakeholder communications.

To qualify for the Media Relations Manager role at Greene King, candidates should possess at least three years of experience in consumer PR or in a press office environment. Strong written and oral communication skills are essential, with the ability to produce clear, engaging, and concise content. Experience with media management, crisis communication, and social media platforms is also necessary to succeed in this fast-paced role.

The Media Relations Manager supports Greene King's press office operations by effectively managing media inquiries, preparing proactive and reactive communications, and evaluating press coverage results. This role is vital to protecting and promoting the company's reputation through strategic media relations, ensuring timely and appropriate responses to inquiries, and collaborating closely with various internal departments.

A Media Relations Manager at Greene King would benefit from experience in a busy press office, as well as strong media relations skills. Experience in consumer PR, media management, crisis communication, and reporting on media coverage would be advantageous. Familiarity with the hospitality or brewing sector and an ability to adapt communications for different audiences will also help to stand out in this role.

The work culture for a Media Relations Manager at Greene King is collaborative and dynamic. You'll be working with a variety of teams across the business, engaging with colleagues from different departments, and building relationships with external media. It’s a friendly and supportive environment that values strong communication and strategic thinking, all surrounded by the mission of celebrating British hospitality.

In handling a media crisis for Greene King, I would first gather all relevant information to understand the situation fully. I'd assess the potential impact on the company and act quickly to communicate with the media. Developing a clear, concise statement for the press and ensuring that all internal stakeholders are informed is key. Additionally, I would monitor media coverage actively and be prepared to provide updates as the situation unfolds.

In my previous role, I managed diverse media inquiries daily, prioritizing them based on urgency and relevance. I routinely liaised with different departments to gather information for accurate responses, crafted press releases, and developed key messaging to ensure the company’s perspective was clearly communicated. Building and maintaining relationships with journalists has been a fundamental part of my approach.

Building relationships with media requires authenticity and consistency. I focus on understanding each journalist's interests and tailoring communication accordingly. Regularly sharing relevant news, responding promptly to inquiries, and inviting media to our events or initiatives helps foster stronger ties. Being a reliable source for information encourages ongoing dialogue and partnership.

Evaluating the effectiveness of a press campaign involves analyzing the media coverage received, assessing the tone, and measuring reach. I also look at engagement metrics, including social media shares and feedback from stakeholders. Gathering qualitative data through surveys or direct feedback helps to gain insights into how well the messaging resonated with the target audience, guiding future campaigns.

My approach to writing press releases is to start with a clear understanding of the target audience and the key message we want to convey. I aim to keep the content concise, engaging, and relevant, ensuring it adheres to journalistic standards. Including quotes from stakeholders adds depth, while utilizing a strong headline helps capture attention. Always considering the proper timing and distribution enhances its effectiveness.

Handling conflicting messages requires open communication and collaboration. I would first gather insights from all departments involved to understand their perspectives. Then, I would facilitate a meeting to discuss the situation, helping to reach a consensus on the messaging. Creating a unified communication strategy ensures that everyone is on the same page, making our engagement with the media more effective.

In a previous position, we faced a situation where a product recall gained media attention. I quickly organized a press conference where our leadership addressed the issue transparently, detailing our plan for resolution. By prioritizing open communication and emphasizing our commitment to safety, we were able to restore trust and mitigate the reputational risks associated with the recall.

Social media is integral to my media relations strategy, allowing for real-time engagement and broad outreach. I use platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to share press releases, live updates during events, and respond to inquiries promptly. Additionally, social media serves as a tool for monitoring trends and public perception, adjusting our media strategies accordingly.

Staying updated on changes in the media landscape involves continuously reading industry publications, following media trends on social platforms, and networking with other PR professionals. Regularly attending workshops and webinars on media relations helps to learn and share best practices while adapting our strategies to remain relevant and effective.

My motivation in media relations within the hospitality sector stems from a genuine passion for hospitality and community engagement. The opportunity to share stories that showcase the rich history and vibrant culture of establishments like Greene King excites me. I believe in the power of public relations to foster strong connections and enhance brand visibility, especially in a sector that thrives on reputation and trust.