Kath Stipala, 34
Media Officer, Friends of the Earth

"My job is varied and interesting, and it’s really satisfying when you see that you’ve helped get a story in the news"

So, what you actually do?

I’m media officer for environmental campaign group Friends of the Earth. I speak to journalists about our work, liaise with staff to maximise media coverage on our campaigns, and write or edit press releases and other information for the media.

How did you get into it?

I volunteered for sustainable transport charity Sustrans, which led to a paid job in their press office.

What does a typical day involve?

Keeping an eye on the national news agenda, dealing with a huge number of media requests for information, working with campaigners to devise ways to promote our work, advising staff and local groups on media relations and proactively contacting journalists about stories.

What kind of person enjoys doing this work?

You need to be enthusiastic, able to juggle lots of tasks in a fast-moving work environment, work to tight deadlines, stay calm when under pressure and think creatively of new ways get your stories into the press.

What skills and experience are needed to work in this sector?

Definitely some experience of a newsroom or press office, as you really need to learn the basics of journalism.

What’s the most memorable experience you’ve had in this job?

The press conference we organised for the launch of our The Big Ask campaign on climate change, with Radiohead’s Thom Yorke. So many journalists turned up and we had live TV interviews set up afterwards.

What are the best things about your job?

It’s varied and interesting - the media are always looking for new things, so I have to be too. It’s really satisfying when you see that you’ve helped to get a story into the news.

What are the most challenging things about your job?

Sometimes, no matter how good your story, a major news story on the same day dominates the news agenda and stops you from getting any coverage.

Any top tips for someone wanting to get into this work?

Work for an organisation you’re passionate about; enthusiasm will take you a long way. Get some journalistic or press office experience, even if you’re doing menial work at the start. Be helpful and creative and you’ll soon find yourself gaining all the skills you need.

Friends of the Earth
Tel 0808 800 1111
Email info@foe.co.uk
www.foe.co.uk