PR Manager (maternity cover), ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS / KEW GARDENS Job at Guardian

Overview

PR Manager (Maternity Cover) for the ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS / KEW GARDENS. Contract start date provisionally 19 January 2026, with a 12‑month end date.

This is a challenging and exciting role for an experienced PR professional with a passion for environmental conservation, nature and addressing climate change and biodiversity loss. Reporting to the Head of PR and working closely with scientists, the role shapes Kew’s media profile and secures wide-ranging media coverage for Kew Science.

The post holder will manage the media and external profile of Kew Science, identify media opportunities through proactive and reactive requests, support and advise colleagues across Kew, and handle sensitive issues. The role is senior within the Communications team and line manages a Media Officer, guiding work across science, visitor-facing and institutional campaigns. Attendance at events and travel to support core communications activity in the UK and overseas, plus participation in a press on-call rota, are required.

This is an exciting time to join the Communications team as we prepare for the release of Kew’s flagship science report in 2026. The role will lead the communications campaign from start to finish.

Responsibilities

• Lead media relations for Kew Science and related campaigns, from concept to delivery.
• Identify and secure media opportunities through proactive pitching and reactive responses; manage interviews and media filming with senior staff.
• Provide strategic counsel on crisis communications and sensitive issues.
• Line-manage a Media Officer; supervise and guide across science, visitor-facing and institutional campaigns.
• Attend events and travel as required to support communications activity in the UK and overseas.
• Coordinate and lead on press on-call duties as part of the team.
• Contribute to key campaigns such as the 2026 flagship science report launch.

Person specification / Qualifications

Timing & Interview process

Location & Benefits

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of life on Earth. Benefits include flexible working where possible, generous annual leave, Employee Assistance Programme, cycle to work, discounted gym membership, pension, employee discount, and free entry to national museums and galleries, plus access to Kew and Wakehurst gardens.

How to apply

If you are interested, please submit your application through the online portal by clicking “Apply for this job”.

Equality & Diversity

We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. No agencies please.

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