Press Officer, The Observer

What’s the job?

Press Officer. Full-time, Monday - Friday.

Where do I work?

The Observer newsroom, London (22 Berners Street) plus some flexibility to work remotely 1 day per week.

What are we for?

The Observer’s promise is in the name. The Observer bears witness; the best of journalism being curious minds at work. It loves the arts and ideas, both for their own sake and because they can change lives. It’s proudly progressive, but has no party allegiance. It’s open to different arguments and its editorial independence is non-negotiable. We are building a new Observer across print, audio and digital. We’re here to build journalism that lasts, and a commercial model to ensure that it thrives.

What’s my personal contribution?

As Press Officer for The Observer, you will be the frontline representative of a modern media brand with deep journalistic heritage and a growing footprint across digital, audio, and newsletter platforms. You will be the key point of contact for all incoming media enquiries and play a proactive role in promoting our editorial talent, journalism, commercial activity, and the broader brand. You’ll work to protect and enhance The Observer’s reputation, positioning it as an essential and influential voice in UK and global media. Your work ensures our stories - and the people behind them - are seen, heard, and understood by the right audiences at the right time.

What are my responsibilities & accountabilities?

Media Relations

• Handle all incoming press enquiries with speed, accuracy, and professionalism.
• Build strong relationships with media outlets, journalists, and editors across UK and international press.
• Proactively pitch stories, talent, initiatives, and commercial innovations to external media.
• Prepare and brief editorial and commercial staff for media interviews, panels, and public appearances.
• Draft press releases, statements, and Q&As as required.

Brand Promotion & Protection

• Work closely with Observer journalists to raise their media profile and promote key editorial stories.
• Promote commercial activity, including advertising partnerships, events, and innovations.
• Monitor press coverage, flag reputational risks, and lean on crisis communications when necessary.

Content Amplification & Thought Leadership

• Identify opportunities for The Observer to contribute to wider industry conversations, commentary, and thought leadership.
• Position The Observer’s journalism and journalists as leading voices in politics, culture, society, and media.
• Work with the marketing team to amplify stories across external channels.
• Responsibility for producing Editorial & Commercial awards entries

Press Office Operations

• Maintain press contact databases, track media coverage, and report regularly on sentiment.
• Develop and update media assets, bios, and briefing materials.
• Support internal teams with media advice and training as needed.

What do I show? Essential skills & behaviours

Skills

• Proven experience in a press officer or media relations role, ideally within journalism, publishing, or a newsroom environment.
• Excellent knowledge of the UK media landscape – print, broadcast, digital, and social – with strong journalist contacts.
• Skilled communicator – both written and verbal – with the ability to manage sensitive issues.
• Capable of managing multiple priorities calmly and effectively under pressure.
• Confident working with high-profile individuals and senior stakeholders.

Behaviours

• Passionate about journalism - Understands and champions the values and mission of quality independent reporting.
• Hardworking & proactive - Takes initiative and goes the extra mile to spot and seize opportunities.
• Unflappable under pressure - Stays composed when managing intense, fast-moving, situations.
• Relationship driven - Builds trust and influence across both internal teams and the wider media industry.
• Detail oriented - Produces high-quality materials and ensures accuracy in all communications.
• Collaborative & agile - Works cross-functionally with editorial and commercial teams

Salary and Benefits

• Competitive salary & bonus scheme
• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Private Healthcare
• Group Income Protection
• Group Life Assurance
• Pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Interest-free season ticket loans
• Free snacks and drinks in the newsroom

Working with us

We are a progressive business with a diverse, motivated team; a mix of veterans and young people starting out on their careers. We are committed to equal opportunities and creating an inclusive environment for all our employees, and we welcome applicants regardless of ethnic origin, national origin, gender, race, colour, religious beliefs, disability, sexual orientation or age.

To apply please send a letter and a PDF of your CV to jobs@observer.co.uk. You should include the name of the job that you are applying for in the email subject.