Press Officer

WestminsterJob SummaryGovernment press officers handle many of the news stories you read, watch, listen and react to every day. Working in a media team within Government Communications is an exciting, inspiring opportunity that will challenge and develop you as a professional communicator. You will be operating at the very heart of government, helping to shape news coverage on issues that affect everyday lives. One of the main aspects of your role will be responding to incoming queries from the media and participating in the round-the-clock duty rota.

This will involve proactively monitoring for breaking news and coverage that might require correction or clarification, providing swift and effective responses to requests for comment and keeping the department abreast of developments. To be successful in this role, you will be confident in turning complex information into clear content that resonates with diverse audiences. You’ll be responsible for developing innovative communication plans across multiple platforms, beyond traditional print and broadcast media, working creatively with colleagues on digital and social media channels to reach different audiences.

An essential part of this role is collaboration, and you will work closely with ministers, communication professionals and other stakeholders to create clear communication strategies and finalise messaging. Job DescriptionResponsibilities will be: Reactive media and press management – managing breaking stories, drafting and providing timely lines to take and accurate information to journalists, and keeping the department updated. Proactive media handling – drafting proactive press releases and communications handling plans that tells the government’s story in a clear and succinct way.

You will work with policy colleagues and Special Advisers to agree key messages and plans to maximise ministerial time, including on visits. News management – the ability to quickly spot both potential problems but also opportunities to insert a government voice positively. Digital communications - helping government create, shape, share and exchange information through online and virtual networks. With the support of an experienced network of peers and a strong focus on professional development, you will develop skills in line with these areas.

Responsibilities Will BeReactive media and press management – managing breaking stories, drafting and providing timely lines to take and accurate information to journalists, and keeping the department updated. Proactive media handling – drafting proactive press releases and communications handling plans that tells the government’s story in a clear and succinct way. You will work with policy colleagues and Special Advisers to agree key messages and plans to maximise ministerial time, including on visits. News management – the ability to quickly spot both potential problems but also opportunities to insert a government voice positively.

Digital communications - helping government create, shape, share and exchange information through online and virtual networks. With the support of an experienced network of peers and a strong focus on professional development, you will develop skills in line with these areas. Person specificationEssential CriteriaExcellent understanding of the national news agenda, including outlets spanning consumer and trade audiences as well as the nations and regions. Political judgement, strong news judgement and excellent understanding of the social media landscape.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills - producing high quality written content such as press releases, op-eds and briefings, for a range of different stakeholders and audiences. Proven ability to distil large amounts of complex information into clear key messages suitable for specific audiences. Strong organisational and planning skills, comfortable managing multiple priorities and working to tight deadlines. Strong networking skills with confidence in building and maintaining a network of internal and external contacts, including journalists. Strong team collaboration skills, working effectively as part of a team, contributing to shared goals, supporting colleagues and fostering a positive team environment.

We will ensure that you are fully supported and can develop your career as a skilled communications professional. DWP is committed to creating an organisation and workforce which is as diverse as the customers we serve. As such, we welcome applications from all suitably qualified people regardless of gender, race, disability, age or sexual orientation. Please NoteIf there are a high number of applications received, an initial sift may be undertaken based on the first three essential criteria listed on slide 5. Candidates who pass the initial sift may progress to a full sift or may go straight to interview.

DCS Criteria Additional InformationIf high application volumes are received, the benchmark for candidates to proceed to the next stage may also be raised. In line with our commitment to the Disability Confident Scheme (DCS), we aim to advance all candidates applying under the DCS who meet the minimum standard. However, we may only progress those candidates who best meet the required standards. Hybrid Working This job role may be suitable for hybrid working, which is where an employee works part of the week in their DWP office and part of the week from home.

This is a voluntary, non-contractual arrangement and your office will be your contractual place of work. The number of days that anyone will be able to work at home will be determined primarily by business need, but personal circumstances and other relevant circumstances will also be taken into account. If you are successful, any opportunities for hybrid working, including whether a hybrid working arrangement is suitable for you, will be discussed with you prior to you taking up your post. Regular time in the office is essential when you work as part of the wider DWP Press Office.

Being in the office is essential at times, with the need to work closely with key stakeholders that include, Ministers, No. 10, Press, colleagues, etc. , often via in-person meetings. This blended working approach allows you to work collaboratively, meet stakeholders in-person, support others and promotes a healthy work life balance. As stated, If you are successful, any opportunities for hybrid working, including whether a hybrid working arrangement is suitable for you, will be discussed with you prior to you taking up your post.

Visa InformationWe strongly recommend that applicants consult with an immigration specialist or qualified advisor to assess their eligibility for Visa Sponsorship before deciding to apply. Please note that while we consider sponsorship requests in accordance with current DWP guidance and Home Office policy, sponsorship cannot be guaranteed. Due to legal considerations in this area, if you have questions about visas, please contact the VISA Sponsorship Team for assistance at visa. sponsorship@dwp. gov. uk. BehavioursWe'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

Communicating and InfluencingDelivering at PaceSeeing the Big PictureTechnical skillsWe'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process: InsightIdeasImplementationImpactAlongside your salary of £48,672, Department for Work and Pensions contributes £14,100 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides. DWP have a broad benefits package built around your work-life balance which includes: Working patterns to support work/life balance such as job sharing, term-time working, flexi-time and compressed hours.

Generous annual leave – at least 23 days on entry, increasing up to 30 days over time (pro–rata for part time employees), plus 9 days public and privilege leave. Support for financial wellbeing, including interest-free season ticket loans for travel, a cycle to work scheme and an employee discount scheme. Health and wellbeing support including our Employee Assistance Programme for specialist advice and counselling and the opportunity to join HASSRA a first-class programme of competitions, activities and benefits for its members (subscription payable monthly). Family friendly policies including enhanced maternity and shared parental leave pay after 1 year’s continuous service.

Funded learning and development to support progress in your role and career. This includes industry recognised qualifications and accreditations, coaching, mentoring and talent development programmes. An inclusive and diverse environment with opportunities to join professional and interpersonal networks including Women’s Network, National Race Network, National Disability Network (THRIVE) and many more. Selection process detailsThis vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Strengths, Experience and Technical skills.

Written ApplicationThe written sift will be conducted using evidence from your CV and Personal Statement and will be assessed against the Key Criteria within the advert. Please note – If there are a high number of applications received, an initial sift may be undertaken based on the first four essential criteria listed on slide 5. Candidates who pass the initial sift may progress to a full sift or may go straight to interview. Interview Shortlisted Candidates Will Be Invited To Attend An Interview. This Will Be a Face-to-face Interview. The Interview Panel Will Be a Minimum Of Two People.

The Interview Will AssessWe’ll assess candidates against the following Success Profiles: Civil Service behaviours www. gov. uk at HEO level: Communicating and influencingDelivering at paceSeeing the big pictureFor this professional communications role, you’ll also be tested against the following Government Communications Service (GCS) technical skills at IO levelInsight IdeasImplementation ImpactYou’ll also be assessed against three Success Profiles: Strengths - GOV. UK relevant to the role. These aren’t defined by grade. Shortlisted candidates will be expected to carry out a short scenario-based exercise at the start of the interview.

You do not need to prepare in advance for this. This exercise will be assessed against Civil Service behaviour Delivering at Pace and the GCS Behaviour implementation. Sift and Interview DatesOur anticipated timetable - which may be subject to change - is as follows: Shortlisting will take place commencing W/C 08/09/2025Interviews will commence W/C 22/09/2025Interviews will be held via Microsoft Teams. Further details will be provided if you are successful and shortlisted. To apply for this post please follow the instructions in this candidate pack or the job advert on Civil Service Jobs.

Please submit your application no later than 23: 55 08th September 2025If you’re an existing Civil Servant and want to know more about transferring to another Department, refer to your current department’s guidance on transfers within the Civil Service. Candidates should not resign from their current job until all appropriate checks have been successfully completed. If you’re an existing civil servant and want to know more about transferring to another department, refer to your current department’s guidance on transfers within the civil service. If you have questions about the role, or the application process, please contact Charley.

owen@dwp. gov. ukFurther InformationFind out more about Working for DWPA reserve list may be held for a period of 6 months from which further appointments can be made. Any move to DWP from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax Free Childcare; for further information visit the Childcare Choices website. If successful and transferring from another Government Department a criminal record check may be carried out.

In order to process applications without delay, we will be sending a Criminal Record Check to Disclosure and Barring Service on your behalf. However, we recognise in exceptional circumstances some candidates will want to send their completed forms direct. If you will be doing this, please advise Government Recruitment Service of your intention by emailing Pre-EmploymentChecks. grs@cabinetoffice. gov. uk stating the job reference number in the subject heading. New entrants are expected to join on the minimum of the pay band.

Applicants who are successful at interview will be, as part of pre-employment screening, subject to a check on the Internal Fraud Database (IFD). This check will provide information about employees who have been dismissed for fraud or dishonesty offences. This check also applies to employees who resign or otherwise leave before being dismissed for fraud or dishonesty had their employment continued. Any applicant’s details held on the IFD will be refused employment.

A candidate is not eligible to apply for a role within the Civil Service if the application is made within a 5 year period following a dismissal for carrying out internal fraud against government. Before applying for this vacancy, current employees of DWP should check whether a successful application would result in changes to their terms & conditions of employment, e. g. mobility, pay, allowances. Civil Servants that would transfer into DWP from other government organisations, following successful application, will assume DWP's terms & conditions of employment current on the day they are posted, unless DWP has stated otherwise in writing.

The Civil Service values honesty and integrity and expects all candidates to abide by these principles. Please ensure that all examples provided in your application are taken directly from your own experience and that you describe the examples in your own words. Applications will be screened and if evidence of plagiarism or copying examples/answers from other sources is found, your application will be withdrawn. Internal DWP candidates may also face disciplinary action. This role is full time only.

Applicants who wish to work an alternative pattern are welcome to apply however your preferred working pattern may not be available and you should discuss this with the vacancy holder before applying. Reasonable AdjustmentAt DWP we value diversity and inclusion and actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including those that are underrepresented in our workforce. We consider visible and non-visible disabilities, neurodiversity or learning differences, chronic medical conditions, or mental ill health. Examples include dyslexia, epilepsy, autism, chronic fatigue, or schizophrenia. If you need a change to be made so that you can make your application, you should:

Contact Government Recruitment Service via DWPRecruitment. grs@cabinetoffice. gov. uk as soon as possible before the closing date to discuss your needs. Complete the “Reasonable Adjustments” section in the “Additional requirements” page of your application form to tell us what changes or help you might need further on in the recruitment process. For instance, you may need wheelchair access at interview, or if you’re deaf, a Language Service Professional. If you are experiencing accessibility problems with any attachments on this advert, please contact the email address in the 'Contact point for applicants' section.

FeedbackFeedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment. This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Strengths, Experience and Technical skills. SecuritySuccessful candidates must undergo a criminal record check. People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks. Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check. People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.

Nationality requirementsThis Job Is Broadly Open To The Following GroupsUK nationalsnationals of the Republic of Irelandnationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UKnationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil ServiceFurther information on nationality requirements (opens in a new window)Working for the Civil ServiceThe Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.

We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window). The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria. The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.

The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants. We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window). The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.

The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy. Diversity and InclusionThe Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window). This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.

The Civil Service welcomes applications from people who have recently left prison or have an unspent conviction. Read more about prison leaver recruitment (opens in new window). Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records. Contact point for applicantsJob ContactName : Charley OwenEmail : charley. owen@dwp. gov. ukRecruitment teamEmail : dwprecruitment. grs@cabinetoffice. gov. ukFurther informationAppointment to the Civil Service is governed by the Civil Service Commission’s Recruitment Principles.

If you feel your application has not been treated in accordance with these principles and you wish to make a complaint, you should in the first instance contact DWP by email: HR. BUSINESSASSURANCE@DWP. GOV. UK. If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from the Department, you can contact the Civil Service Commission. Click here to visit the Civil Service Commission.