Head of Media Relations – West Midlands

Head of Media Relations - West Midlands

Head of Media Relations

Location: Home-based with regular travel to Solihull and across the UK

Are you a skilled communicator who enjoys building strong relationships and crafting compelling messages? Would you like to play a key role in shaping how people view our company and our work? If so, we’d love to hear from you.

At Stonegate Group, we’re passionate about bringing people together through our great pubs, bars, and venues. As our Head of Media Relations, you’ll help us share our story and connect with a variety of audiences, from journalists and customers to industry partners and employees.

About the Role

Reporting to the Director of Communication and Engagement, you’ll lead our PR team and manage our internal press office. You’ll work closely with colleagues across the business to ensure our messaging is consistent, engaging, and aligned with our values.

You’ll also represent us within the industry, participating in important conversations and helping to build our reputation. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys both strategic planning and hands-on external communications work.

Key Responsibilities

• Shape Our Messaging: Develop and deliver media strategies that enhance our reputation and visibility.
• Oversee the Press Office: Manage media inquiries, draft press materials, and ensure timely, clear responses.
• Deliver Impactful Campaigns: Plan and oversee PR initiatives that connect with key audiences.
• Represent Us Externally: Build and maintain relationships with trade bodies, MPs, and other industry partners.
• Support and Guide the Team: Provide leadership, media training, and support to team members.
• Collaborate Across Teams: Work with the wider Communication and Engagement team to ensure consistent messaging.
• Navigate Challenges: Support the leadership team with crisis communications and sensitive issues.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience: A significant and proven track record in media relations and PR
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal skills, with the ability to craft clear, engaging messages.
• Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to connect with diverse stakeholders.
• Leadership Style: A supportive and collaborative approach to leading and developing a team.
• Strategic Thinking: Confidence in planning and adapting strategies to achieve goals.
• Passion and Curiosity: An enthusiasm for pubs, bars, and hospitality, along with an interest in industry trends.

We welcome applications from individuals with a range of experiences and backgrounds. Previous experience in the hospitality industry would be beneficial.

What's in it for you? 

• 25 days annual leave
• Annual Leave Purchase Scheme
• Pension
• Vitality Healthcare
• Opt in dental insurance programme
• Annual bonus scheme
• The Stonegate discount card offering discounts across our managed estate
• Online benefits portal offering discounts across the High Street and other retailers

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