Be the first point of contact when major international news breaks and help shape tomorrow’s stories

About us

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is at the frontline of the UK’s relationships with the wider world. We promote the UK's interests overseas, supporting our citizens and businesses around the globe.  We work through our office in London and our network of over 270 diplomatic posts in 168 countries and territories.  Based in London, you’ll be part of a busy press office team, ready to respond whenever major news breaks.

The role

This is a friendly and fast-paced office where no two days are the same.  Working on some of the most significant stories coming out of the FCO, you’ll shape reporting about the UK Government’s role in international events. You’ll track major news developments, briefing correspondents and drafting responses to media enquiries. Dealing with high-profile journalists and providing communications advice to ministers, special advisers and senior colleagues, you’ll also support major events such as visits from foreign leaders, international conferences and speeches by the Foreign Secretary. There will be some out-of-hours work during evenings and weekends.

About you

You’ll combine in-depth knowledge of foreign affairs with experience in a press office or similar media environment, ideally with a political slant. An exceptional communicator, you’ll be used to briefing journalists and will have strong news-writing skills. You’ll have an eye for a story, and able to spot opportunities to promote the work of the FCO around the world. Leadership potential will be important as the role includes some responsibility for overseeing the work of an Assistant Press Officer and secondees in the press office. You will also deputise for the Head of News Desk in his absence. We’ll look to you to generate ideas about how to improve our processes and shape the future of the team. Experience working in a press office or other media environment is essential.

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