Director of Media Relations - NGO - London
Westminster Search is proud to be working with a leading international NGO to appoint a strategic and experienced Director of Media Relations. This is a high-profile leadership role at the heart of the organisation’s external affairs operation, responsible for shaping its voice in the media and enhancing its impact across domestic and global audiences.
The successful candidate will bring credibility, creativity, and sound editorial judgment to lead proactive and reactive media engagement that reflects the organisation’s values, champions its mission, and drives real-world change.
The Role
As Director of Media Relations, you will lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive media strategy, positioning the organisation as a compelling and trusted voice on key social, humanitarian, and global issues. Working closely with senior leadership, programme experts, and external partners, you will drive coverage that informs debate, strengthens influence, and deepens public understanding.
You will oversee a team of media professionals, ensuring strategic alignment, editorial excellence, and rapid response capabilities in a fast-moving environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and lead the organisation’s global media strategy across traditional and digital platforms
- Build and maintain strong relationships with national, international, and sector-specific journalists and editors
- Act as senior media adviser and spokesperson for the organisation where appropriate
- Shape media narratives on key policy areas, campaigns, and emergency responses
- Oversee the media relations team, ensuring effective planning, coordination, and execution of press activity
- Manage rapid response and crisis communications, providing clear protocols and confident leadership under pressure
- Ensure all media outputs are accurate, impactful, and aligned with the organisation’s mission and messaging
- Collaborate with policy, campaigns, digital, and fundraising teams to deliver integrated external engagement
- Provide media training and support to senior leaders and spokespeople across the organisation
- Monitor media coverage, produce evaluations, and provide insight to inform strategy and decision-making
Person Specification
Essential Experience & Skills
- Substantial experience leading media relations in a complex, high-profile organisation
- Deep understanding of UK and international media landscapes, including digital and broadcast
- Strong track record of securing high-quality coverage across a range of issues and platforms
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with sound editorial judgement
- Experience acting as a spokesperson or coaching others to do so effectively
- Strategic thinker with the ability to align media work with wider organisational goals
- Proven ability to lead and motivate teams, manage pressure, and respond quickly to breaking developments
- Understanding of the role of communications in advancing humanitarian, development, or social justice objectives
- Sensitivity to the reputational risks faced by NGOs and the communities they serve
Desirable Attributes
- Knowledge of international development, human rights, climate, health, or related issues
- Experience working in a charity, NGO, or mission-led organisation
- Existing media network in Westminster, Whitehall, and/or relevant international press
- Familiarity with digital campaigning and social media strategies
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and ethical storytelling in communications
What Our Client Offers
- A leadership role with purpose, driving public understanding and political influence
- The opportunity to shape national and global narratives on critical humanitarian issues
- A collaborative, values-driven working culture
- Flexible and hybrid working options
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Access to learning, development, and international networking opportunities
How to Apply
To apply for this vacancy, please email joseph.henry@westminstersearch.com
Please attach a CV with your application.
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