• 38 Hours per week, Monday to Friday 9:00 to 5:00
• 12-month contract with the possibility of extension
• Office located in Deakin, Canberra; though remote/hybrid working arrangements will be considered.

About Us:

RSPCA Australia is Australia’s leading animal welfare organisation and one of the nation’s most recognised and trusted organisations. We’re dedicated to making animals’ lives better. With a rich history spanning over more than 150 years, the RSPCA continues to be at the forefront of animal care and protection, advocacy and education, across the nation. RSPCA Australia, the federation’s national body, is a leading source of animal welfare science, and works with governments and industries to progress animal welfare across a range of issues.

Role Overview:

The Media Relations Specialist will play a crucial role in managing day-to-day media relations, building relationships with key media contacts, and developing written content to enhance RSPCA Australia’s media presence. This position is responsible for responding to media enquiries, monitoring media coverage, proactively and strategically identifying media opportunities, and working closely with media spokespeople and RSPCA member Society communication teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and respond to inbound media enquiries (including managing the media phone and inbox), ensuring that RSPCA Australia’s policies and positions are communicated promptly, accurately and effectively.
• Actively identify and action strategic opportunities to improve the volume and quality of the RSPCA’s presence in the media – including media releases, electronic audio-visual releases, direct pitches, op-eds, letters to the editors, requesting updates and corrections, and more.
• Build and develop relationships with key media contacts, to enhance the visibility of RSPCA Australia’s campaigns, initiatives and events through the media.
• Work closely with the rest of the Communication and Campaigns team to monitor and report on media coverage and trends, including via media monitoring platforms.
• Work closely with media spokespeople (such as the CEO and Science and Policy team) to ensure that they are well trained, well prepared, confident, and best placed to represent the RSPCA’s policies and positions in the media.
• Build relationships with and work closely with RSPCA member Society communication teams, to ensure that national media enquiries are responded to in an effective and timely manner.
• Contribute to the day-to-day running of the national office where required.
• Other duties as reasonably directed.

As a member of a small team, other duties and activities that contribute to the work of RSPCA Australia will be required from time to time or as directed.

Note: This role has primary responsibility for managing day-to-day media enquiries, including routinely holding the media phone and monitoring the media inbox outside of business hours, and as such, significant out-of-hours work will be required.

Experience and Knowledge:

• Demonstrated experience in a similar media officer role (whether in the public, private, or not-for-profit sector).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience creating content for media such as media releases and confidently liaising with senior staff and journalists.
• Proven track record in managing media campaigns and securing media coverage.
• Strong track record of sound demonstrated judgement and discretion, with the ability to confidently and effectively manage complex and difficult situations under pressure.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work and contribute as part of a busy multi-disciplinary team.
• Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail.
• Demonstrated interest and enthusiasm for the not-for-profit sector and animal welfare.

Benefits:

• Flexible working arrangements.
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the welfare of animals nationwide.
• Supportive and inclusive work culture with opportunities for professional development and growth.