Lead Journalist

The Lead Journalist is a pivotal role within the Pennon Group's External Communications Team. This position is designed for a content-driven, creative individual with a passion for storytelling and a strong journalism background. Reporting to the Director of External Relations, the role focuses on uncovering and amplifying stories from across Pennon's diverse business areas, including water services, power, and other core operations, while supporting the team in managing both proactive and reactive media engagement. This role combines strategic leadership of the PR team with hands-on journalism, ensuring accurate and compelling narratives that reflect the values and achievements of the Pennon Group. The ideal candidate will excel in writing, media relations, and digital storytelling, and possess the confidence to navigate challenging media environments. \n What you'll be doing:

• Co-lead the PR team, working alongside another Lead Media Relations Manager to deliver a cohesive media strategy.
• Drive proactive, positive news coverage across the group and support the team in responding to inbound media requests.
• Challenge the team to innovate and consistently elevate the quality of media engagement and storytelling.
• Provide calm and informed leadership during crises, guiding the team through hostile or challenging media situations.
• Act as a "journalist within the business," mining for stories that amplify the achievements of Pennon's teams and operations.
• Translate complex campaigns and activities into engaging narratives for internal and external audiences.
• Produce high-quality content using multimedia tools (e.g., photography, videography, editing) to drive engagement across various channels.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, fostering accurate and balanced reporting about Pennon's operations.
• Confidently address inaccuracies or biased reporting, ensuring Pennon's reputation is protected.
• Act as a spokesperson when required, representing the organisation professionally to external audiences.
• Provide strategic input and hands-on support during times of crisis, ensuring consistent and effective messaging.
• Respond promptly to high-pressure situations, maintaining a calm and solution-oriented approach.
• Track and analyse media sentiment and reputation using tools and data available.
• Use insights to refine media strategies and measure the effectiveness of communication efforts.
• Build strong, lasting relationships with internal teams, identifying and packaging stories that reflect Pennon's values and achievements.
• Conduct interviews with internal and external stakeholders, including senior leaders, in a professional and engaging manner.
  
  Journalism background or currently pursuing a journalism/media qualification.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage media relations and deliver impactful press communications.
• Strong organisational and multitasking skills to manage multiple deadlines effectively.
• Proven experience as a journalist or within a media relations role, with strong storytelling skills.
• Track record of building and maintaining relationships with journalists and media outlets.
• Experience leading or co-leading media or communications teams, driving proactive and reactive strategies.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate high-pressure situations, including managing crises and addressing inaccuracies in media reporting.
• Experience creating high-quality multimedia content (e.g., photography, videography, editing).
• Proficiency in analysing media sentiment and using insights to refine communication strategies.
• Strong organisational skills with experience managing multiple projects and competing priorities.
• Knowledge of the utilities or regulated sectors is desirable.
  
  At South West Water we believe that the strongest businesses are built on solid, stable foundations - with a vision and a culture that gives them the freedom to change, improve and innovate.
We're proud to be responsible for providing reliable, efficient and high-quality drinking water and wastewater services for the beautiful South West area. And we have huge ambitions. Not only are we committed to reaching net-zero by 2030, but we've also partnered with Wildlife Trusts, National Parks and local partners to help ensure a better future for generations to come. So, if you want to be part of a diverse team where opportunities flow and fresh ideas are welcomed, #JustAddWater. We are looking for a Lead Journalist to join Pennon Group's External Communications team on a permanent basis.

We know that the support and commitment of our staff is key to our success so you will receive the opportunity for ongoing development and training for a long-term career with us. We're one of the largest companies in the South West and are proud to have been awarded Investors in People recognition. In return, we offer an excellent range of benefits including: Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays A discretionary Bonus Competitive Contributory Pension Share-save Scheme Various health benefits Wellbeing support programmes A range of Group Discounts Cycle to Work Scheme Financial support services And plenty more! If you thrive in a fast-paced environment with high-profile media interactions this could be the perfect role for you. Closing date: 9th January 2025 Be yourself, we like it that way. Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where inclusion is instinctive. Diversity is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness. Our core values which are essential to our success are: Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on. Be You - We want you to bring your best everyday. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way. Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.