Description The central work of a Press Officer is representing the Church and its mission to the media and external stakeholders. The role includes initiating and building relationship with journalists and media outlets, liaising with journalists and other media representatives, and speaking on behalf of the organisation in the Europe North Area as needed. Facilitates the interaction of Church leadership with key external audiences. Additionally, the role includes initiating and disseminating news of the Church, incident management, responding to breaking news and significant issues, media inquiries, stories and TV/radio news programs. Trains and assists local members and priesthood leadership in public affairs and spokesperson callings. Responsibilities Proactively oversees and manages the Church's media narrative and media relations as the primary point of contact. Builds and cultivates relationships with journalists and media outlets, handles area press releases, enquiries and urgent requests, and initiates the creation, approval process and distribution of area press releases. Develops and executes strategic media engagement plans to promote positive coverage of the Church's mission, initiatives and values across the Europe North Area, in alignment with and under the direction of the Area Public Affairs Manager. Leads crisis communications efforts and handles reactive media enquiries, ensuring timely, accurate, and consistent messaging to protect the Church's reputation. Speaks on behalf of the organisation as needed and requested. Oversees press content creation, writing, editing, proofreading press releases, approvals, and creation of statements and briefing materials for the media. Identifies and acts on major national issues, breaking news stories or opportunities that need attention or response. Monitor media trends and coverage, identifying potential risks or opportunities to protect and enhance the Church's reputation. Supports the work of the Area Public Affairs Manager, along with supporting training programmes for national communication councils and communication volunteers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to effectively represent the Church in media interactions and community engagements across the Europe North Area. Organises and attends press conferences as needed. Responds to priesthood requests for support on significant public affairs issues. Provides press-related support for special projects such as temple open houses, family campaigns, and media initiatives. Qualifications College degree in public relations, communications or related field. Minimum 7 years in areas related to Public Affairs; Communications; Marketing; Media; Government Relations; International Relations, etc. Equivalent experience may replace education. English proficiency, excellent written, spoken and interpersonal skills. Awareness of media landscape and sensitive topics. Experienced in media relations, journalism, or public relations, with a track record of securing high-impact media coverage. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to craft clear and compelling narratives. Ability to work under pressure, ensuring consistent and professional messaging in fast-paced situations. Persuasive and resilient to handle pressure, criticism, and crises. Mastery of crisis communication skills, plans, execution and response methods. Experience working with professional media, government and business leaders. Knowledge of Church policies, procedures and doctrines. Familiarity with Church organisation and priesthood governance, event planning and management. Area Press Officer working hours can be irregular, especially when deadlines are approaching or if events are happening. They may occasionally be on call to deal with urgent media enquiries in the evenings or on weekends. They may also need to be on call to respond to emergencies outside working hours. Career qualifications, such as from the PRCA and the Chartered Institute of Public Relations, are encouraged and welcome.