Media Relations Officer for ESA Director General and Corporate Matters

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to the exploration of space. Established in 1975, ESA has grown to include 22 member states and employs over 2,200 staff members. The agency's mission is to shape the development of Europe's space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world. ESA operates across multiple countries, focusing on various aspects of space exploration, satellite technology, and international cooperation in space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The Media Relations Officer for the ESA Director General and Corporate Matters will play a crucial role in managing and enhancing the media relations activities associated with the ESA Director General. This position is situated within the Corporate and Institutional Communication Office of the Communication Department, under the Director General's Services. The officer will be responsible for developing and implementing media relations strategies that effectively communicate the ESA's objectives and initiatives to the public and media. This role requires a proactive approach to building relationships with journalists and media outlets, ensuring that the ESA's messages are conveyed accurately and effectively. The officer will also support the Head of the Corporate and Institutional Communication Office in managing media activities related to corporate matters, ensuring that the ESA's communication strategies are aligned with its overall mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Media Relations Officer will conduct all media relations activities for the ESA Director General, which includes building strong relationships within the media community and managing engagement with space journalists. Key responsibilities include organizing interviews and briefings for journalists, preparing and updating press releases, maintaining journalist databases, and coordinating media relations activities with the Director General and Corporate Communication Officer. The officer will also contribute to media relations for corporate matters by liaising with the Corporate Media Relations Officer and the Head of the ESA Member States Outreach Office. This includes managing the Director General's involvement in communication opportunities, ensuring that media relations activities are integrated with Member States' strategies, and contributing to the development of the global ESA Media Relations Policy and Strategy. The officer will establish a collaborative working environment across the Department, particularly with Media Relations Officers from Member States.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in a relevant field and have at least 10 years of experience in media relations. Strong problem-solving skills, the ability to work under pressure, and excellent organizational skills are essential. The candidate should demonstrate a customer-focused approach and be adaptable to new demands. Knowledge of the French media landscape is crucial, and familiarity with German is considered an asset. The candidate must also be willing to travel frequently within Europe, at least two to three times a month.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant domain is required for this position. This educational background should provide the candidate with a solid understanding of communication strategies, media relations, and the operational aspects of working within an international organization like ESA.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of experience in media relations, demonstrating a deep understanding of the media landscape, particularly in France. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully managing media relations and developing communication strategies that align with organizational goals.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, and a good command of English is required. Knowledge of another language from an ESA Member State would be considered an additional asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse media outlets and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment within the grade band A2-A

• Recruitment will prioritize candidates from ESA Member States, and internal candidates will be given preference during the selection process. The role may require the selected candidate to undergo selection tests and basic screening before appointment. The agency is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The working conditions and details regarding compensation and benefits will be provided during the recruitment process.