Media Relations Manager (m-f-d)

Temporary, Full-time · FSC Global Development GmbH

The Scope

In a world where environmental credibility is constantly scrutinized and public trust must be earned every day, the role of strategic, transparent, and intelligent media engagement has never been more critical.

FSC is seeking a Media Relations Manager who combines journalistic rigor with strategic instinct — someone who values facts, understands nuance, and is comfortable operating in a global, multi-stakeholder environment. The role sits directly within FSC’s global communications function and works closely with, and reports to, the Media Programme Manager, contributing specialist expertise to international media strategy and positioning.

For an experienced journalist or senior media professional, this is not a conventional communications role.This is an opportunity to shape narratives at the intersection of environmental policy, global supply chains, climate action, social and labour affairs, and corporate accountability. It is a role for someone who understands how media works because they have worked within it — someone who knows how stories develop, how journalists think, and how credibility is built and protected over time.

FSC offers a platform of global relevance. The organization operates in a space where regulatory developments, corporate sustainability commitments, NGO scrutiny, and public opinion converge. The Media Relations Manager will not only respond to inquiries — they will proactively position FSC as a trusted, authoritative voice in international sustainability discourse.

Main Roles & Responsibilities

Support proactive engagement in public debates relevant to FSC by monitoring key media narratives and identifying opportunities for FSC visibility.
Assist in organizing press briefings and media engagements on major FSC topics.
Cultivate and maintain professional working relationships with journalists and media outlets.
Draft and distribute press releases, statements, and media responses on topics relevant to FSC.
Monitor, track, and summarize emerging issues or risks that could affect FSC’s reputation and support the development of recommended communication actions.
Contribute to the implementation of crisis communication plans and protocols as directed by senior staff.
Serve as a first point of contact for routine media inquiries and support escalation of sensitive or high-risk topics to senior team members.
Prepare briefing materials, Q&As, and talking points for FSC spokespersons for media interviews and events.
Maintain and regularly update messaging, key narratives, and issue-specific talking points.
Any other task as assigned by the formal supervisor and project work as assigned according to special organizational needs.
Any other task as assigned by formal supervisor and project work as assigned according to special organizational needs.

Your profile

Education and Training:

University degree in a relevant field (e.g. Journalism, Media, PR, Communications, or a related field).

Working Experience, Style and Skills:

At least five years of professional experience working with journalists, including at least three years responding to crisis issues and/or public relations.
Experience in the development and management of communications strategies.
Good time management skills: Ability to perform well while simultaneously handling a number of functions.
Solution oriented attitude to work.
Service oriented attitude to work.
Project management experience.
A strong sense for diligence and accuracy.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Proven ability to plan and organize work independently.

Computer Skills – good skills in the use of/experience with:

Standard software packages (MS Office).
Adobe Creative Cloud skills are a plus.

Communication Skills:

Excellent English speaker is a requirement for this role.
Other languages are a plus.
Exceptional writing skills, including the ability to shape messages for intended audiences.
Exemplary verbal and written communication skills.
Experiencing in managing crisis communications.
Ability to establish and maintain positive interpersonal relations.
Ability to respond quicky and decisively to media requests and issues.

Why us?

Be part of a globally recognized organization at the forefront of sustainable forestry and contribute to the mission to help protect the world’s forests.
Play an active role in the FSC global community of 400+ forest stewards who come together in-person at least once a year.
Benefit from cross-cultural collaboration and networking opportunities by working in a dynamic, inclusive, and diverse international culture with over 60 nationalities represented under one roof.
Benefit from work-life balance with our hybrid working structure.
30 vacation days yearly.
Regional transportation ticket.
Breakfast bars, coffee, tea.
Take part in learning lunches.
Celebrate together festivals from different cultures.

The Fine Print

Location: Bonn, Germany.
Working Hours: Full time - 40 hours per week.
Duration of Employment: Temporary contract – 2 years (extension possible, subject to satisfactory performance).
Starting Date: As soon as possible.
Travel: Sporadic travel is required.

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We are looking forward to your application.

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About us

Welcome to FSC!

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a globally recognized non-profit organization at the forefront of promoting sustainable forestry. With over 150 million hectares of certified forests and a trusted reputation among NGOs, consumers, and businesses, FSC is leading the way in ensuring the long-term health and resilience of the world’s forests.

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We are looking forward to hearing from you!

Thank you for your interest in FSC. Please fill out the following short form. Should you have difficulties with the upload of your data, please send an email to careers@fsc.org.