Press and PR Manager
Be part of something greater.
- Job reference: SDX/TP/1956626/156581
- Location: Hybrid - Manchester
- Job type: Full Time - 40 hours per week
- Salary: Competitive salary
- Closing date: 08 May 2026
About the role
Press & PR Manager – Government & Energy
Hybrid – (Salford/Manchester)
Salary – Competitive salary
Make your mark where it matters most!
At Sodexo, we don’t just deliver service, we shape environments where people and communities can thrive.
We’re looking for a high-calibre Press & PR Manager to lead communications across our Government & Energy segment, one of the most high-profile, complex and strategically important areas of our business.
This is not a typical PR role.
You’ll be operating at the heart of national conversations, managing high-stakes issues while building a compelling narrative that showcases our impact across government, justice, defence and energy.
If you thrive in fast-paced, high-responsibility environments and want to step into a role with real influence, this is it.
Why this role stands out
- High impact – work on some of the UK’s most visible and sensitive contracts
- Strategic exposure – advise senior leaders and shape reputation at scale
- Variety – from crisis comms to proactive campaigns and thought leadership
- Career defining – ideal step up for ambitious PR professionals ready for bigger challenges
What you’ll be doing
Leading media relations & issues management
- Own day-to-day media handling across Government & Energy, including high-profile Justice issues for the prisons we operate
- Respond to fast-moving, sensitive enquiries with confidence and precision
- Draft statements, Q&As and briefing materials for senior stakeholders
- Provide calm, strategic counsel during live issues and crisis situations
- Play a key role in the UK&I out-of-hours press office rota
Driving proactive PR & positioning
- Develop and deliver a targeted PR strategy to elevate Sodexo’s reputation
- Secure high-quality media coverage, thought leadership and speaking opportunities
- Position Sodexo as a trusted partner to Government and leader in public service delivery
- Amplify campaigns and key programmes across media and LinkedIn
Building regional presence & storytelling
- Deliver local PR strategies across key sites
- Build strong relationships with regional and trade media
- Identify powerful, community-driven stories that bring our impact to life
Influencing stakeholders
- Build trusted relationships with key bodies including:
- Ministry of Justice
- Scottish Prison Service
- Local authorities and community stakeholders
- Support stakeholder communications and reputation management
Collaborating across teams
- Work closely with social, content, internal comms and public affairs
- Ensure joined-up messaging across all channels
- Contribute to wider UK&I PR campaigns and priorities
What success looks like
- Strong, confident handling of sensitive media issues
- Increased volume and quality of positive coverage
- Trusted relationships with key Government stakeholders
- Clear contribution to business growth through reputation
- Consistent, high-quality storytelling aligned to our brand
What we’re looking for
Experience
- Strong background in PR, media relations and crisis communications
- Proven experience managing complex, high-profile issues
- Experience in Government, public sector or regulated environments is a big plus
- Track record of delivering proactive PR campaigns and media coverage
Skills
- Exceptional writing and storytelling ability
- Calm, confident decision-making under pressure
- Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills
- Ability to spot and land media opportunities
- Highly organised, able to manage multiple priorities
Mindset
- Proactive and solutions-focused
- Resilient, with sound judgement
- Commercially aware, you understand how reputation drives growth
- Curious, agile and always looking to improve
Sodexo’s Transversal segment is a central pillar of our organisation, bringing together the core enabling functions that support every part of the business. This segment includes our HR, Finance, Communications and other specialist teams that provide the strategic guidance, governance, and expertise needed to drive operational excellence. Working within Transversal means contributing to the foundations that allow Sodexo to succeed - from shaping our people strategy and managing financial performance to strengthening internal processes and ensuring we deliver on our commitments. It’s a collaborative, high‑impact environment where your work influences the success of the entire organisation.
Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater
You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way.
In addition, we offer 20+ Sodexo benefits such as Sodexo retirement plan, discounts to over 1,900 brands to shop online, Gym discount to maintain a healthy lifestyle, a confidential 24/7 employee assistance programme providing independent support to overcome whenever life has its obstacles including emotional support, legal and financial advice.
For further details regarding our Sodexo benefits please see attached
Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!
About The Company
At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On-Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services.
We're all about building a workplace for the future, we believe in equal opportunities, and we celebrate diversity. We’re an inclusive workplace, where everyone is welcome, everyone can be natural, and be the best versions of themselves. We recognise that we’re on a journey with regards to diversity and inclusion and would therefore welcome applications for candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.
We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.
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KEY BENEFITS
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Advice and guidance
Get help with legal, financial, personal or work issues whenever you need it. -
Pension Plan
Save effectively for your future when you join the Sodexo Pension Plan. -
Wellbeing support
Unlimited access to online support for your mental health, 24/7. -
Generous leave
For holidays, care needs or major life events, we’ll help you rest and recharge. -
Discounts and savings
Enjoy great deals from leading retailers and use our Bike to Work scheme -
Virtual GP
24-hour access to video or phone consultations for you and your family.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
At our company, we believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Roles at Sodexo are designed to empower individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to creating an environment that values equity and supports the growth of all employees, ensuring that everyone can contribute to and benefit from our collective success.
Social Impact
Ever since we started, we’ve had a clear purpose – to do some good in our communities through helping people. Today, that purpose is still a huge part of who we are. And every one of our colleagues helps that happen.
We’re committed to volunteering our time, resources, skills and knowledge – more than 50% of colleagues contribute to thousands of volunteer hours every year. And our Charitable Foundation has now donated over £9 million to charities and good causes across the country.
Hybrid - Manchester, Not specified
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Register your interest
Join us at Sodexo and explore the exciting career opportunities we offer! Whether you're interested in hospitality, facilities management, or food services, we invite you to set up a profile and become part of our vibrant team.