Role: Press Officer

Please read this role descriptor carefully - have you got the essential skills or experience that we need?

Reporting to: Thushara Chandrasiri (Lead Communications Volunteer) 

What does this role do? 
The Comms team here at ReportOUT play a vital role in highlighting the important and valuable work of our major Human Rights Reports, as well as raising awareness of events, articles and major developments relating to the organisation. Your role will involve but not be limited to, creating press releases, networking, and be a point of contact for members of the local, national and international media wishing to secure coverage with ReportOUT in print, online, TV and radio. 

 

You will also be working closely with colleagues within the Communications Team, as well as other teams within ReportOUT such as Business Development Officers, Human Rights Researchers and our Global Campaigns Team. Where necessary you will also work with the Communications Team to create and maintain a media pack, which will be updated regularly and sent to key stakeholders and press. You will:

 

• Draft and distribute press releases and media statements.

• Build and maintain relationships with journalists and media outlets, including keeping a database of them.

• Monitor media coverage and track press mentions.

• Research and explore national, regional and global press opportunities for proactive engagement.

• Pitch stories to secure coverage for our campaigns and report outreach.

• Assist in crisis communication when necessary.

• Create and maintain a media pack.

Essential skills, experience, or qualifications you need for this particular role:

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• Strong writing and editing skills with a good level of English.

• Experience in media relations or public relations.

• Proven ability to build relationships with a range of different people at all levels.

• Knowledge of media ethics.

• Attention to detail.

• Ability to work under press and meet tight deadlines

• Ability to work as part of a team, as well as using your own initiative.

• Experience working as part of a remote team, including maintaining frequent and regular communication with the rest of the team.

Desirable skills, experience, or qualifications:

• Background in Press Relations or Journalism.