Press Manager

Press Manager

Application Deadline: 29 March 2026

Department: Communications

Employment Type: Permanent

Location: London

Reporting To: Head of Press

Compensation: £51,566 / year

Description

UK Biobank is the world’s most detailed study for tracking the long-term health of people as they age. Our unparalleled health and lifestyle dataset from half a million volunteers’ drives scientists around the world to make discoveries that improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease. Communicating our record-breaking data announcements – from the world’s largest set of whole genome sequencing data to the largest human imaging study – and the broader impacts of UK Biobank is vital for inspiring our participants, funders, researchers and other audiences.

We’re looking for a Press Manager to support the continued development and growth of our newly established, yet highly effective, Press Office function. This role will play a key part in shaping our Press Office and communicating UK Biobank’s work to the media to raise our profile and manage our reputation.

As a welcoming and inclusive organisation, we value thoughtful communication, collaboration, and people who enjoy working in fast-moving environments where accurate and impactful storytelling matters.

Can you do it?

As Press Manager, you will bring in your expertise to manage and enhance the work of our Press Office and work with the team position UK Biobank’s work within national and international media.

From trailblazing health data announcements to debates around health data and scientific integrity, you will help ensure the organisation’s voice is clear, credible, and influential.

Working closely with the Head of Press, Press Officer and the wider Communications Team, you will develop and deliver media workflows, relationships and strategies that highlight the value of UK Biobank while safeguarding the organisation’s reputation.

You will also provide strategic insight, experienced media handling, and guidance to colleagues in a fast-paced research environment.

• Developing the Press Office: help shape how a newly formed but very successful Press Office embeds best practice by bringing in your expertise. You will define how we manage information, relationships, workflows and analysis so that the team is ready to seize opportunities, respond to emerging issues and maximise its impact.
• Team management & oversight: line manage the Press Officer, providing day-to-day oversight and guidance; ensure clear workflow, prioritisation and development opportunities; lead press office operations in the absence of the Head of Press.
• Proactive storytelling to build profile: find and champion compelling stories; identify media opportunities aligned with UK Biobank’s strategic goals; work directly with researchers and spokespeople to shape narratives that resonate with key audiences, ensuring they are briefed and trained for media. 
• Press materials & copywriting: draft high-quality press releases, statements, op-eds and briefings; ensure alignment with organisational voice and messaging. Coordinate sign off systems and manage distribution once agreed.
• Coverage monitoring & evaluation: lead strategic reporting and analysis of media coverage trends and insights; prepare briefings for colleagues including senior leadership on implications and opportunities; evaluate impact of media activities across key channels and audiences.
  

Is this 'you'?

• Significant experience working in a senior press or media relations role at managerial or senior level, ideally in a science, health or academic setting.
• Demonstrated ability to lead high-profile communications activity, including managing press during breaking news situations.
• Strategic thinking with a strong news sense and ability to translate complex information for mainstream and specialist audiences.
• Confidence working with senior leadership and high-profile spokespeople, including providing media training and coaching.
• Strong planning, prioritisation and crisis management abilities.
• Advanced understanding of media channels (print, broadcast, digital) and their role in reputation building.
  

This role would suit someone who enjoys working at the intersection of science, media, and public communication.

Working hours are 35-hours per week, Monday to Friday with some flexibility, 3 days onsite with hybrid working available. Located in London at The Kings Fund offices, in Cavendish Square.

Our passion for diversity and equality means creating a work environment for all employees that is welcoming, respectful, engaging, and enriched with opportunities for personal and professional development.

Your Wellbeing Matters to Us

Colleagues at UK Biobank often highlight feeling supported, included, and connected to meaningful work, with wellbeing and work–life balance genuinely valued across teams.

We’re proud to offer a benefits package that supports your health, financial security, and development from day one:

• 🗓️ 26 Days’ Annual Leave - Plus Bank Holidays, increasing with length of service.
• ➕ Holiday Buy Scheme - Purchase up to one additional week of leave per year.
• 🎂 Birthday Leave - Enjoy a paid day off to celebrate your birthday.
• 🏦 USS Pension Scheme - Hybrid defined benefit/defined contribution pension plan.
• 🏥 Healthcare Cash Plan - Claim back costs for everyday health expenses.
• 👶 Enhanced Family Leave* - Subject to eligibility.
• 🚴 Cycle to Work Scheme - Save on a new bike and accessories.
• 🚆 Season Ticket Loan - Interest-free loan to help with commuting costs.
• 📄 Professional Subscriptions - Reimbursement where applicable.
• 📚 Learning budget - Annual funds for courses, books, or anything else that fuels your personal and professional growth.
• 🛍️ Employee Discounts Portal - Access to savings across retail, travel, and more.
• 📞 Employee Assistance Programme - Confidential support for personal and work-related issues.
• 💉 Annual Flu Vaccination - Stay protected with free flu jabs.
• 🛡️ Life Assurance Cover - Financial protection for your loved ones.

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