Hybrid – London Store Support Centre (on average 2 days per week) and Home with on call evenings (Monday - Thursday) and weekends (1 per month on a rota basis)

Fixed Term Contract - 12 months

Why join us

Joining Sainsbury's as the Head of Media Relations offers an unparalleled opportunity to lead a high-performing team in a fast-paced and dynamic corporate environment. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the external narrative of the organisation, driving impactful media strategies, and managing reputational risks while working closely with key stakeholders. With a focus on building a centre of excellence in issues monitoring and management, creating strategic relationships across various media channels, and developing a winning team, this role provides a platform for experienced media relations professionals to make a significant impact and contribute to the continued success and reputation of Sainsbury's.

About the team

The Corporate Affairs division at Sainsbury’s is at the heart of our communications strategy, shaping the narrative that defines our brand and purpose. As part of this dynamic team, you will be joining a group of professionals dedicated to delivering impactful external and internal communications across all our brands. The Media Relations team plays a critical role in protecting and promoting our reputation, working closely with colleagues across Government Relations, Consumer PR, Internal Communications, and Strategic Communications to ensure a unified and compelling message.

What you'll do

As the Head of Media Relations at Sainsbury's, you will lead and oversee the 24 / 7 press office, playing a pivotal role in protecting and promoting Sainsbury's reputation by mitigating risks and issues while working with the business to ensure a cohesive external narrative linked to the company's purpose and strategy. You will be responsible for developing and implementing issues and risk reporting frameworks, creating reactive media communication plans, and managing sensitive issues related to organisational and colleague change projects. Additionally, you will lead a team of media relations experts, build strategic relationships with key external stakeholders, and contribute to establishing effective communication strategies to drive the company's progress and success in the market.

Who you are

As the Head of Media Relations at Sainsbury's, you are an accomplished and strategic communications leader with a wealth of experience in managing high-profile press offices and news media environments. Your proven expertise in issues management, crisis communication, and building strong relationships with key national correspondents enables you to protect and enhance Sainsbury's reputation while effectively communicating progress against strategic objectives. With exceptional judgement, creativity, and the ability to balance various stakeholder needs, you play a pivotal role in driving impactful external communications strategies that align with business goals and values.

Essential criteria

• Proven experience leading a high-profile press office or news media environment.
• Proven ability to lead and manage high performing teams
• Demonstrable expertise in managing issues and crisis communications at a senior level.
• Proven ability to respond effectively to media queries and engage with national correspondents.
• Demonstrable skills in drafting reactive statements, Q&As, and briefing documents.
• Ability to identify and advise on immediate and emerging reputational risks using data and stakeholder insights.
• Proven ability to lead and manage teams

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