Director of Media Relations

Shape the national conversation around defence, security and trust

At Babcock, we’re working to create a safe and secure world, together. If you join us, you can play your part as a Director of Media Relations supporting our business in the UK and beyond.

We are a global leader in defence, aerospace and engineering, supporting nations, communities and critical infrastructure through complex, high‑impact programmes. Our work is vital, visible and valued and how we communicate it matters. That’s where you come in.

As Director of Media Relations, you will lead and elevate Babcock’s engagement with UK national and top‑tier business media. This is a senior, high‑profile leadership role with responsibility for shaping the narrative that reinforces our reputation as a critical partner to government, industry and society.

Working with the Group Director of Communications, you will set the proactive and reactive media strategy, manage sensitive and complex stories, and act as a trusted adviser within the business. Operating in a regulated and fast‑moving environment, your work will influence public understanding, investor confidence and stakeholder trust helping to ensure that the importance of defence and energy security is clearly understood.

This role offers significant scope to develop strategic influence and contribute directly to the long‑term strength of a FTSE 100 organisation with a national mission.

Day-to-day, you’ll be:

• Leading relationships with UK national, political and business media outlets
• Shaping proactive and reactive media strategies aligned to business priorities
• Advising the business on media risk, opportunity and narrative
• Managing media interactions with sound judgement
• Driving high‑impact coverage that strengthens trust, credibility and reputation

This role is full time, 37.5 hours per week and provides hybrid working arrangements.

• Extensive experience in UK national or business media relations at senior level
• Proven success managing complex narratives
• Strong news judgment, editorial instincts and exceptional writing skills
• Understanding of financial markets, regulation and corporate governance
• Demonstrable Leadership skills managing large Media Teams
• Ability to influence senior leaders and operate effectively under pressure
• Defence/Government Industry experience

• Degree in communications, journalism or a related field, or equivalent senior‑level experience
• Professional membership such as CIPR or PRCA is desirable

The successful candidate must be able to achieve and maintain Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) security clearance for this role.

Many of the positions within our company are subject to national security clearance and Trade Control restrictions. This means that your eligibility for certain roles may be affected by your place of birth, nationality, current or former citizenship, and any residency you hold or have held. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels -  ().

• Generous holiday allowance
• Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance
• Access to a Digital GP, annual health check, and nutritional consultations through Aviva Digi Care+
• Employee share scheme
• Employee shopping savings portal
• Payment of Professional Fees
• Reservists in the armed forces receive 10‑days special paid leave
• Holiday Trading to buy or sell annual leave
• ‘Be Kind Day’ — one paid volunteering day each year
• Flexible working to support…