We have partnered with Southern Water to appoint a Senior Media Relations Manager at a pivotal point for the organisation and the wider water sector. This is a high-profile role leading the press office function and shaping media engagement during a period of heightened scrutiny, regulatory change and organisational transformation.
The role requires a confident, credible media professional with deep experience of crisis communications, senior stakeholder engagement and proactive media handling in complex, highly regulated environments.
The Role
Reporting into the Corporate Affairs leadership team, the Senior Media Relations Manager will:
* Lead Southern Water's media relations and press office function, setting strategy and overseeing reactive and proactive media engagement.
* Act as a trusted adviser to the CEO and Executive Team, briefing ahead of interviews and recommending which media opportunities to pursue or decline.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with regional and national journalists, with particular emphasis on South East regional media.
* Proactively manage reputational risk, anticipating media issues and ensuring accurate, balanced coverage.
* Lead crisis and issues management activity, including rebuttal and correction of inaccurate reporting.
* Work closely with Public Affairs and Stakeholder teams to ensure alignment across external affairs.
* Line manage and develop the press office team, setting clear standards and providing firm, constructive leadership.
About You
You will bring:
* Significant experience in media relations and crisis communications, gained in a high-profile, consumer-facing or regulated organisation.
* Proven ability to operate in challenging media environments, where scrutiny and pressure are constant.
* Strong gravitas and judgement, with confidence advising senior leaders and challenging journalists when required.
* A proactive, strategic approach to media handling rather than purely reactive press office delivery.
* Experience leading or mentoring media professionals and maintaining high professional standards.
* An understanding of how political and regulatory dynamics influence media coverage.
Desirable:
* Experience within utilities, infrastructure, transport, energy or similar regulated sectors.
* Exposure to financial communications, remuneration scrutiny or environmental issues.
* Previous experience working in journalism or broadcast media.
* Established regional media relationships (South East).
Why This Role
This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior, influential media role with real impact. The successful candidate will be central to how Southern Water engages with customers, stakeholders and the media at a critical time for the organisation.
The role offers visibility, responsibility and challenge in equal measure and will suit someone motivated by complexity rather than comfort.
Package & Benefits
* £400 per month car allowance
* Bonus scheme up to 10%
* Pension contributions up to 11%
* Hybrid working (2 days onsite per week - Monday & Tuesday)
* Comprehensive benefits including health cash plan and employee assistance programme