The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
From Media Relations Specialist (L2)
2-3 years as an L2Skills to master
- Independently owning pitches, building a solid network of journalist contacts, demonstrating strong writing skills, and showing initiative in identifying story opportunities.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently securing coverage in relevant trade and local media.
- Successfully managing several small-to-medium scale media projects.
- Proactively identifying and pitching new story ideas without constant supervision.
- Receiving positive feedback from journalists on your professionalism and pitch quality.
- 2
From Marketing Communications Specialist
3-5 years in a comms role with media exposureSkills to master
- Deepening understanding of media relations specific tactics, shifting from owned/paid media focus to earned media strategy, and building direct journalist relationships.
You're ready to move on when
- A strong portfolio of written communications (e.g., blog posts, website copy) that can be adapted for media.
- Experience collaborating with PR teams on integrated campaigns.
- Demonstrated ability to identify and craft compelling narratives.
- A desire to move from 'telling' to 'earning' media attention.
- 3
From PR Agency Account Executive / Manager
2-4 years at an agency, managing client accountsSkills to master
- Adapting to an in-house perspective (one brand focus), deepening strategic thinking beyond client briefs, and navigating internal stakeholder dynamics.
You're ready to move on when
- A proven track record of securing coverage for multiple clients across various industries.
- Experience managing client expectations and delivering against KPIs.
- Strong organisational skills for juggling multiple projects.
- A desire to specialise and become an expert in one company's story.