Media Relations Manager France (Paris based, 76K)

Our client is a ‘soon to be separated division’ of a large multinational pharma / healthcare company. In the Paris based headquarters the communication function is fast-growing and working as a high-performing, global, stakeholder-focused, networked team.

Besides taking on ‘primary role responsibilities’ a can-do cooperative flexible team spirit is essential to be successful. All will be on a fast learning curve and should and will enjoy the ride!

We are looking for a Media Relations Manager France (Paris based, 76K)

The Media Relations Manager France regularly works in transversal teams on a range of complex topics. The function aligns the interests of various stakeholders, and executes activity that builds and protects the corporate brand, reputation and employee engagement across its businesses, markets, and countries.

Media is a key means of engagement between the company and the external world, via either earned traditional or digital channels. The Global media team consists of three FTE: Global Media Relations Lead, Media Relations France and Media Relations USA ( both key growth geographies).

France is a major geographic entity and a critical part of the footprint and strategy.

• The home country of the business and of some of its most loved brands.

• The 2nd largest commercial affiliate worldwide.

• With 2 manufacturing plants, 1 global R&D center and the global Headquarters of the new company.

Main responsibilities

• Build and maintain relationships with French top-tier media (traditional e.g., print/broadcast), or global media reporting in France, and social media on behalf of the company.

• Represent the company as a spokesperson towards both French traditional and digital media channels.

• Preparing briefings for senior executives and other leaders (e.g. country lead, site managers) and providing coaching and advice for external communications moments towards French media stakeholders (e.g. interviews, speaking opportunities etc).

• Develop and execute (a) media plan(s) in support of specific business-determined priorities in France, working together with other colleagues (e.g., Public Affairs, External Communications, Country Communications) where relevant.

• Identify and manage local media opportunities in support of consumer brand launches, sustainability initiatives, etc.

• Support local consumer brand teams with media advice and guidance in support of their Brand PR activities.

• Support the global media relations lead in building consistent and effective ways of working in media relations.

• Be the deputy spokesperson towards global media in absence of Global Media relations lead;

• Monitoring, measuring and reporting progress of plans and initiatives related to France.

• Liaise with and manage third-party suppliers e.g. external communications agencies for France-specific activities.

• Monitor and subsequently prepare the company in advance of issues in France through (digital) listening and traditional networking; Provide authoritative advice on reputationally sensitive subjects.

• Lead local crisis/issue communications in close collaboration with the Head of Communications France in line with the crisis communications structure.

• Seek opportunities to share insights, contacts and ideas that will contribute to the activities of others within the company communications network.

About you

• At least 8 years of experience in a media relations role.

• Strong oral and written communication skills – native French speaking, and a high level of proficiency in English (preferably bi-lingual).

• Proven business acumen.

• Deep understanding of the French media landscape, including active relationships with relevant external stakeholders (e.g., sector correspondents, business editors, online influencers).

• Proficient in the use of digital channels (e.g., social media) and associated tools including basic copywriting, graphic design and video editing, monitoring, and data analysis.

• Strong skills in working on several, complex projects simultaneously.

• Good understanding of / experience in a FMCG environment.

• Soft skills: Cultural sensitivity; Crisis management abilities; Self-starter; Negotiation skills and Relationship building skills.