London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) is the Capital’s largest independent business support organisation, representing the interests of thousands of London businesses.
It provides professional, independent and affordable services and is recognised as the ‘Voice of London Business’. All of the LCCI’s business services are designed to help member companies succeed and include award-winning b2b networking events, on-line business advice, export documents and conference and meeting facilities.
The Role
The Press and Media Relations Manager is responsible for promoting and protecting LCCI profile and reputation within the broad media field including print, broadcast and online platforms.
The post-holder will actively collaborate with LCCI colleagues to develop and implement high-impact influencing campaigns to shape central government, national parliament, city hall and other key stakeholder audiences.
Key Responsibilities
- Developing and managing an annual press and media relations strategy for LCCI;
- Maintaining an on-going programme of contact and relationships with press and media correspondents;
- Maintaining a log of media correspondence, meetings and outcomes;
- Liaising with LCCI members to manage and promote their issues in line with LCCI corporate objectives and team priorities;
- Publicising LCCI submissions and responses to relevant consultations and inquiries;
- Identifying opportunities for, and threats to, the LCCI corporate agenda in the public arena;
- Producing timely and accurate press releases or public statements as required;
- Handling press and media inquiries efficiently and professionally: Identifying and briefing relevant LCCI staff or members to speak to press and media representatives, Managing the media content of the LCCI website and ensure content is relevant and regularly updated & Ensuring the news section of the LCCI homepage is regularly updated.
General Responsibilities
- Liaising with other LCCI teams, especially Patron and Marketing to assist with maximum delivery of services to members as appropriate;
- Playing an active part in team briefings, staff meetings and other internal communications;
- Working with LCCI colleagues to organise launch events for team campaigns, publications and initiatives;
- Maintaining ongoing contact with the BCC to understand relevance of national network campaigns to LCCI and members;
- Regular drafting of articles for external publication including London Business Matters;
- Playing a supportive editorial role in London Business Matters;
- Providing material for LCCI Board and Council reports as required;
- Representing LCCI at internal and external functions when required;
- Presenting an efficient professional and positive image of the BCC approved Chamber network in London.
Essential
- Solid and proven press, media, communications or PR background;
- Strong written communications;
- Strong networking skills;
- Excellent telephone manner;
- Creativity and innovation;
- Ability to develop strong working partnerships;
- Tact/diplomacy;
- Drive and pro-activity;
- Decision making;
- Team working;
- Autonomous working;
- Ability to set and meet targets;
- Commercial awareness;
- Working unsociable hours - including out of hours contact for journalists;
- Proficient with Microsoft Office.
Desirable
- Knowledge of issues affecting business and Westminster Parliament;
- Strategic thinking;
- Knowledge of transport related issues;
- Basic budget management;
- Proficient with databases.