Introduction

We are transforming; by 2020 we will set the standard for rail travel in the North and beyond. With a £1 billion investment in transforming our business and rail travel, these are exciting times and a great time to join us. 

We’re one of the UK’s largest train operating companies and our franchise began on 1 April 2016, running for 9 years. Northern is owned by Arriva Group (backed by Deutsche Bahn). 

Northern plays a vital role in the north of England by connecting tens of thousands of people, to work, leisure and education. Our aim is to connect people to opportunities by providing a reliable and friendly train service. We have made significant progress since we started but there is much more that we want to achieve and you can be a part of it.

Role overview:

We are looking to recruit a Media Relations Executive based in our York office on a 12 month fixed term contract.  The role will involve assisting in the delivery of the company’s media relations strategy, engaging with and influencing the media to promote, enhance and protect Northern’s reputation.  You’ll also support the Media Relations Manager in mitigating risk of high profile public or media negative issues or campaigns towards Northern by proactively engaging with relevant external audiences across all media channels.  You’ll promote the media relations function within the business by providing colleagues with insights into the PR strategy and how the Press Office works.

About the role:

Working in this role you will also:

Write and issue news releases and statements in a timely manner to media, respond to media enquiries, and maintain the database of media contacts

Plan and deliver the annual media calendar including positive campaigns to engage all audiences and mitigating the risk of any potentially negative issues.

Manage the monitoring and evaluation of all media coverage about Northern, highlighting key issues to internal stakeholders

Maintain the media on-call roster and take part as required.  Brief on call personnel on key issues and lines to take.

About you:

We are looking for candidates who have significant experience in managing the media, including taking part in radio, TV and print interviews.  You also need to have a proven capability to manage large workloads to tight deadlines, often under pressure.  And also strong planning and project management skills and proven line management experience.

We are also looking for:

·       Degree level qualification

·       Membership of a professional body such as the Chartered Institute of Public Relations