(Maternity Cover) Responsible to Operations Manager
Commitment Full-time 37.5 hours/week
Alternative flexible working arrangements including Part-Time can also be discussed

Background
The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) is the UK’s largest and most diverse national Muslim umbrella organisation with over 500 members including mosques, schools, charitable associations and professional networks. Our mission is empowering Muslim communities to achieving a just, cohesive and successful British society.

Role Purpose
To support the Communications and Media team by co-ordinating all media-related activities with both external and internal stakeholders.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities
1. Manage the media inbox and deal with new media enquiries as per specified protocol
2. Answer phone calls and email enquiries from journalists
3. Draft press releases both reactively and proactively
4. Proactively phone or email journalists regarding press releases and activities and maintain regular relationship
5. Draft letters, speeches and OpEds, if required.
6. Maintaining a contacts database of key media contacts and experts
7. Proof-read all media statements before they are released
8. Arrange for spokespeople to speak to the media
9. Occasionally be on call to deal with urgent media enquiries outside of normal working hours
10. Support the MCB's wider projects and campaigns with media support

Person Specification:
• Proven experience in a communications, media or press officer role
• Excellent written and spoken English language
• Keen eye for detail
• Strong IT skills, including website CMS systems
• Strong inter-personal and communication skills via phone, email and in-person
• Ability to exercise discretion and confidentiality with sensitive information
• Able to cope with pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Awareness of how the media works in print, broadcast and online forms
• Experience liaising with high level stakeholders including political entities.
• Understanding of the issues that the MCB deals with and the potentials risks and impacts.
• Good understanding of British Muslim communities and respect for its diverse traditions and ethnic backgrounds