Location
Elgin Ave., London

Hours
37 hours per week

Salary
£46,040 per annum

About the Role
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is seeking a talented and motivated Senior Press Officer to join one of the government’s busiest and highest-profile press offices. From supporting the Armed Forces at home and overseas to responding to international crises and driving major defence policy, our communications help explain complex issues to the public and maintain confidence in the UK's defence mission. This role is for someone who thrives under pressure, enjoys working at the centre of the news agenda and has a genuine interest in defence, national security and current affairs. You will be expected to work from the Ministry of Defence’s Whitehall Office.

You will lead and develop a team of press officers, creating a supportive, high-performing environment. You will oversee the day-to-day running of a busy press office desk, ensuring work is prioritised effectively and high standards are maintained, even during intense activity. You will develop proactive media strategies that tell the story of UK defence and support wider government priorities, respond to enquiries from national, international, regional, consumer and digital media outlets, and draft press releases, statements, rebuttals and briefings for senior spokespeople across Defence.

You will coordinate communications during breaking news and operational activity, work closely with policy, operational and digital communications colleagues to deliver joined-up campaigns and messaging, manage media access at high-profile events, and provide professional communications advice to ministers, military officers, senior officials, special advisors, and members of the Directorate of Defence Communications. You will also participate in the out-of-hours duty rota, dealing with media enquiries across the full breadth of the MOD’s responsibilities, which can occasionally involve overnight stays in MOD accommodation with a separate allowance paid.

Communication areas you will cover include military operations, equipment procurement and latest technology, personnel related issues, and wider Defence policy issues affecting UK Armed Forces operations. The role provides opportunities for travel within the UK and abroad.

Benefits
Alongside your salary, the MOD contributes £13,337 towards membership of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Additional benefits include learning and development tailored to your role, flexible working options, a culture encouraging inclusion and diversity, free use of the gym at the Main Building, and season ticket advance to assist with travel costs. Please note this post does not offer relocation expenses.

Experience
Excellent understanding of the media, social media and new media landscape. Proven record of working in a media/press office environment or in defence policy areas is desirable. Experience of news management in PR or journalism and using social media to evaluate communications is also desirable.

About you
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to absorb complex information quickly and produce clear, plain language communications. Discretion to handle classified and sensitive information. Confidence and strategic judgement to act as a trusted adviser to ministers and senior military officers. Ability to work under pressure and lead a team effectively.

Qualifications
No specific qualifications are stated as mandatory; however, relevant experience in communications, media, or defence-related roles is advantageous.

Additional Information
You will be required to undergo a criminal record check and meet security clearance requirements. The role is not open to applicants requiring visa sponsorship. The MOD promotes equal opportunities and diversity and operates a zero-tolerance policy towards unacceptable behaviours including bullying and harassment. Candidates must be able to work within the Civil Service Code and demonstrate behaviours such as Working Together, Making Effective Decisions, Communicating and Influencing, and Delivering at Pace.