Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. We are a modern and forward thinking institution rooted in, and connected to a city with a rich history of culture and learning. We are a globally recognised University focused on providing high-quality teaching, delivering impactful research and an excellent student experience. Our vision is simple: “shape tomorrow through our unique blend of the modern and the traditional, by embracing diversity, seeking out the new and excelling in education and research.”
Our people are at the heart of the University - our excellence in teaching, research and knowledge exchange depends on the engagement, capability and wellbeing of our people. We strive to create and encourage an environment where people have the opportunity to develop, progress and thrive.
In acknowledgment of our commitment to gender equality and progression, we proudly hold the Athena SWAN Bronze award, a testament to our unwavering dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all. Join us at Oxford Brookes University, where every step forward is a leap toward a brighter tomorrow.
The role
Based at our Buckley Building on the Headington campus and reporting to the Deputy Head of Communications - News & Media Relations, the News & Media Relations Officer plays a key part in enhancing the University's visibility, reputation, and engagement through powerful digital storytelling and traditional PR. You will be responsible for creating, publishing, and evaluating multimedia content—including video, graphics, and written stories, across social, digital, and traditional media platforms, translating University achievements and research into compelling narratives that support recruitment and engage external audiences. This a part time 0.4 FTE role.
About the team
As part of the Directorate of Marketing, Recruitment and Engagement, the Communications team provides leadership and advice to the University on both internal and external communications. We are a confident and ambitious team dedicated to making a measurable difference to the experience of staff, prospective students, students, and alumni. Our work involves building the profile and reputation of the University amongst the media, communicating with our diverse stakeholders, and organising key events.
What will I be doing?
- Develop proactive PR and digital communications plans to promote key areas of University activity, including teaching, research, and student experience.
- Plan, film, edit, and publish short-form video content optimized for platforms like Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
- Draft media releases, expert commentary, and reactive statements to manage reputation and handle media enquiries.
- Identify and shape communications opportunities, working with colleagues to turn research and achievements into multi-channel storytelling outputs.
- Monitor performance, audience trends, and digital channels to inform content planning and improve impact.
- Collaborate with students, academics, and professional services teams to source content and co-create stories.
- Support the drafting of speeches, scripts, and editorial materials for senior staff and institutional events.
What skills do I need?
- Degree or equivalent qualification.
- Proven experience in journalism, public relations, and digital communications.
- Demonstrated experience in proactive and reactive media relations.
- Strong ability to create engaging content for a wide range of platforms, including social media.
- Excellent oral and written communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills.
- (Desirable) NCTJ or CIPR (or equivalent) qualification.
- (Desirable) Experience of working in a charity or public sector organisation.
About the location
Based at our Buckley Building, Headington campus, you’ll experience a vibrant campus atmosphere and benefit from our modern office environment. The campus is one mile from the centre of Oxford and is served by regular public transport. This role will be hybrid with 1 or 2 days on campus per week.
Benefits
As an Oxford Brookes employee, you will enjoy a total of a minimum of 25 days holiday, rising with your service, plus 8 Bank Holidays and additional University concessionary Days (all leave is pro-rata for part time staff)
We encourage and support hybrid working where the role allows and ensure that you have the necessary equipment to allow you to work flexibly.
We have an extremely competitive Local Government pension scheme with a generous Employer contribution rate, as well as providing all staff with financial education, a comprehensive employee assistance helpline.
We prioritise the well-being of our employees—both physically and mentally, as well as financially. That's why we provide a diverse and comprehensive benefits package to support our team
In addition, all employees have access to:
Discounted rates for the University sports & gym facilities
Brookes on-site Nursery.
Discounted travel options
TOTUM card discount scheme
Relocation scheme (for moves over 30 miles)
Training and development opportunities
Connected community - Brookes have a wide variety of staff networks which instil a sense of community offering employees a space for support, guidance and friendship making it a vibrant and inclusive place to work.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
At Oxford Brookes, inclusivity is one of our five guiding principles: we take positive steps to create an environment in which we celebrate, value and provide equal opportunity to all. We are committed to recruiting within the widest possible pool and welcome all suitably qualified applicants who embrace our values, regardless of their background.
As a Disability Confident Employer we guarantee to interview any disabled applicant who meets the essential selection criteria.
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