Be part of a Premiership-winning team as Head of Media and Public Relations!

Take the lead in driving the Penrith Panthers Rugby League story, protecting our reputation and delivering strategic communications that strengthen our influence and connection across the market and community.

The Role

Reporting to the General Manager Commercial, the Head of Media and Public Relations is a pivotal leadership role responsible for leading the external media, public relations and strategic communications activities of the Penrith Panthers Rugby League Club. You will develop and deliver integrated communication strategies that promote key initiatives, strengthen our brand identity and protect the Club’s reputation. You will also increase the visibility of media and public relations priorities across the organisation while building trusted relationships with executives, players, coaches, stakeholders, media representatives and the broader community.

In this role, you will:

• Lead the Club’s media and public relations activities, including media engagement, crisis communications, stakeholder communications and earned media.
• Develop and deliver the annual public relations and digital media strategy.
• Prepare media statements, speeches, talking points and briefing materials for Executive Management, Board members, Coaches and Players, while providing media training where required.
• Maintain effective reporting systems, action plans and team meetings, while analysing industry activity and measuring campaign performance.
• Manage departmental budgets, wages and expenses and support the achievement of revenue, gross profit and EBITDA targets.
• Maintain a consistent and compelling brand presence in accordance with Group, Rugby League and NRL Licensing Style Guides.
• Leverage positive media coverage and identify valuable community, industry and partnership opportunities.
• Lead and develop a high-performing Digital Content team of four Content Producers through effective recruitment, training, performance management and recognition.
• Oversee departmental assets, equipment and capital expenditure in collaboration with the Property, IT and Finance teams.
• Ensure compliance with Group policies, NRL guidelines, WHS legislation and relevant statutory obligations.

About you

You are an accomplished communications professional and confident people leader with the judgement, resilience and composure required to operate in a fast-paced, high-profile sporting environment. You build trusted relationships, communicate with influence and can balance proactive storytelling with the careful management of sensitive and high-pressure matters.

You will also have:

• A bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing or a related discipline.
• At least 5 years relevant experience in public relations, media relations or communications.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal, stakeholder management and relationship-building capabilities.
• Demonstrated strategic thinking, sound judgement and crisis management skills.
• Previous media relations experience and experience managing direct reports, which will be highly regarded.
• The flexibility and commitment to work at all Panthers NRL game days throughout the regular season and Finals Series.
• Strong alignment with The Panther Way PRIDE Values, Panthers Experience Customer Service Values and Group Brand Behaviours.

As part of the Panthers team, you'll enjoy:

• 40% discount at all Panthers-owned food outlets and free post-mix while on shift
• 20% discount on Panthers merchandise and the pride of being part of a Premiership-winning team
• Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts with a range of accommodation, retail, dining and entertainment providers.
• Reward and recognition programs that celebrate outstanding contributions
• Wellbeing Leave
• Purchased Annual Leave for eligible FT/PT employees to enjoy greater work-life flexibility
• Staff social events and opportunities to connect with your teammates
• Free onsite parking. 

APPLY NOW! 

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

No recruitment agencies please.

About us

Panthers Penrith Leagues Club sits proudly in the middle of what has become the impressive and expansive Panthers Precinct. Our club boasts 11 restaurants, 6 bars and 12 meeting, event and function rooms. 

We are a not-for-profit organisation, heavily focused on our members, their guests and our community. While Panthers has grown exponentially over the years, our priority has always remained to provide an exceptional customer experience and to become a leading contributor of spirit, support and opportunity within the Penrith community.