Job Title: Head of News
The Ministry of Defence and the single services (Royal Navy, RAF, and British Army) are subject to intense public, Parliamentary, and media scrutiny. The Directorate of Defence Communications (DDC) manages external and internal communications about departmental and military activities. The news team within DDC is responsible for engaging with the media, stakeholders, and the public, handling sensitive issues, and promoting the government's reputation.
This role is advertised at 37 hours per week and involves leading a team of approximately 15 government press officers and spokespeople for the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force. The Head of News plays a key role in planning and delivering proactive and reactive communications for Ministers and the department.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Support the Deputy Director of News, Digital, and Speech-writing in leading and developing the Press Office.
2. Deputise for the Deputy Director as needed.
3. Manage four Chief Press Officers to ensure high-quality service and effective team functioning.
4. Ensure the Press Office can support major events and crises effectively.
5. Oversee the clearance of reactive and proactive media products.
6. Prepare and support senior officials, including ministers and military chiefs, for media engagements.
7. Engage in high-level news planning and cross-Government collaboration.
8. Contribute to strategic planning and ensure departmental objectives are met.
9. Build relationships with key stakeholders, including Ministers, Chiefs of Staff, and external partners.
10. Lead within DDC to maintain high standards and efficient resource use.
11. Provide coaching, training, and oversee recruitment for the team.
12. Provide senior communications support outside of core hours as part of the backup rota.
Candidate Requirements:
* Extensive media relations experience and proven track record in managing news teams within complex organizations.
* Experience during high-profile national/international events or crises, ideally in military contexts.
* Strategic leadership and organizational support experience.
* Ability to advise senior officials and manage sensitive information with discretion.
* Strong media judgment, decision-making under pressure, and relationship-building skills.
* Knowledge of modern media landscape, including digital and traditional media.
* Understanding of defence policy, military operations, and security issues.
* Ability to influence and negotiate with senior stakeholders.
* Leadership qualities, including motivation and team development skills.
* Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion principles.
Benefits:
* Salary: £70,540 plus £20,435 Civil Service contribution to pension scheme.
* Flexible working options and tailored learning and development.
* Inclusive culture, gym access, travel support, and other benefits.
* Six-month probation for new civil service recruits; expenses for travel to interviews not reimbursed.
Note: This role does not offer sponsorship for visas and requires successful candidates to pass security vetting. The MOD promotes a zero-tolerance policy on unacceptable behaviors and conducts pre-employment checks.
#J-18808-Ljbffr