The Publicist role works with the team to develop creative, targeted, noisy publicity campaigns that generate conversations and drive audience viewing to Channel 4’s programmes and content as well as effectively communicating its unique remit and brand values.
This role will work on campaigns for a range of programmes, with particular focus on promoting content across our Reality Entertainment, Lifestyle and Digital slates.
The Publicist will work as part of the wider Content Communications team which is overseen by the Director of Content Communications and they will have the opportunity to work across multiple programming genres and with different members of the department.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Reporting to Head of Communications, Reality Entertainment, Lifestyle and Digital, the Publicist will:
1. Develop stand out publicity strategies for key priority Reality Entertainment, Lifestyle and Digital programmes and to come up with innovative ideas for generating noise around key projects across all broadcast channels and streaming.
2. Proactively promote their assigned programmes to a range of media including – print, broadcast, digital and influencers.
3. Develop a network of excellent working relationships with journalists and influencers across a range of media.
4. Identify issues arising out of Channel 4 projects, in conjunction with the Publicity Leads and Head of Communications – helping to prepare Q&As, drafting lines against enquiry and fielding/answering calls.
5. Write and create press materials for review by Publicity Lead/HoC – including press releases, press information/billings, press packs and clips etc.
6. Organise and run press events, junkets, set visits and screenings.
7. Contribute to written reports and evaluations of priority programme campaigns.
8. Work closely with picture publicity, marketing and social teams to deliver creative integrated PR campaigns.
9. Develop excellent working relationships with Channel 4 commissioning teams, independent production companies, agents and personal publicists
10. Some out of hours working will be required
11. Some travel will be required
ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
Technical/Professional Skills -
12. A track record of developing and implementing proactive, creative and innovative consumer PR strategies and campaigns.
13. A comprehensive understanding of PR and its place in the wider communications mix
14. Experience of identifying contentious issues and working with the team to mitigate these
15. Proven flair for creative and effective writing
16. Fluency in social media and a clear understanding of best practice in a PR context
Relationship Management -
17. Experience of working with programme executives
18. Experience of working with talent, managers and publicists.
19. Outstanding communication skills and an ability to form and maintain positive working relationships with diverse stakeholders.
20. A good network of contacts and an interest in building and developing relationships with online influencers and digital media.
Managing Resources -
21. Able to prioritise well, deal with multiple projects and work to deadlines
22. Demonstrable experience of delivering creative PR campaigns
Autonomy/Judgement/Decision Making -
23. Proven ability of writing press lines and managing press enquiries to deadline.
24. Ability to work independently and as part of a close-knit team.
Complexity/Problem Solving -
25. Proven record of managing press, logistical and resource issues
26. Proven record of managing conflicting priorities and demands
27. Business Impact/Strategic Perspective
28. Ability to think strategically under pressure
Content -
29. A passion for TV and content.
30. An interest in working for Channel 4 and an understanding of its core values and remit.
DESIRABLE EXPERIENCE
31. Experience in a creative, content-led sector
32. Understanding of the TV and media industry.
33. Knowledge of and experience in incorporating digital and social/influencer innovation within press campaigns.
Please note this role will require travel to other Channel 4 hubs if required.