Ellwood Atfield are partnered with Local Trust to appoint a Press & Media Manager in their high-performing team.
 

The Local Trust empowers communities across England to create lasting change by providing funding, support, and resources to tackle local challenges. Through the Big Local program and other initiatives, it fosters grassroots leadership, encourages collaboration, and helps residents shape their neighbourhoods, ensuring sustainable, community-driven development and stronger, more resilient societies.

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About the Role

Are you a strategic communications professional with a passion for impactful storytelling and media engagement? We are seeking a Press and Media Manager to lead Local Trust’s media strategy, secure positive press coverage, and protect the legacy of the Big Local programme. You will work closely with the Head of External Affairs to deliver high-quality press and media engagement and ensure Local Trust’s reputation is upheld.
 

In this role, you’ll provide leadership and guidance on press activity, manage their media responses, and develop communications plans for key projects. You will also support and mentor a Senior Programme Communications Officer, fostering their growth and ensuring alignment with the organisation’s objectives.
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Key Responsibilities

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• Lead proactive and reactive press work for ongoing projects such as the doubly disadvantaged neighbourhoods research and the Community Wealth Fund campaign.
• Provide expert advice on media strategy for significant legacy projects including partnerships with local government and the NHS Confederation.
• Manage press queries, identify media risk areas, and develop robust rebuttal packs.
• Collaborate on a strategic closure communications plan to highlight key media opportunities.
• Line-manage the Senior Programme Communications Officer, supporting their development and performance.
• Develop and execute media plans for Local Trust’s closure strategy and assist Big Local communities in their exit plans.
• Build strong relationships with national, regional, and specialist journalists to secure coverage for Big Local areas and legacy organisations.
• Ensure consistent application of Local Trust and Big Local branding across all communications.
• Create high-quality communications materials including press releases, briefings, and op-eds.
• Maintain oversight of at-risk legacy projects and provide strategic media guidance.

What We're Looking For?

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• Proven experience in press and media management, ideally within the charity, public, or community sector.
• Strong relationships with key media contacts, particularly within national, regional, and specialist press.
• Excellent writing and editorial skills, with the ability to craft compelling content for various platforms.
• Leadership experience in managing teams and providing strategic direction.
• A collaborative and flexible approach, with the ability to thrive in a small, dynamic team environment.
• Commitment to Local Trust’s values, including promoting equality, diversity, and environmental sustainability.

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Why Join Local Trust?

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At Local Trust, you’ll be at the forefront of telling the story of one of the most ambitious community-driven programmes in the UK. You’ll have the opportunity to shape narratives, influence media coverage, and ensure that the incredible work of the Big Local programme is celebrated for years to come.
 

If you’re ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role with the chance to make a real impact, we’d love to hear from you!

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To apply

To apply, please submit your CV and covering letter to Alex.c@Ellwoodatfield.com by 29^th November.