Junior Publicist

THE COMPANY

Our client is a leading independent distributor, bringing a diverse slate of award-winning and audience-favourite films to cinemas and screens across the UK.

THE ROLE

As a Junior Publicist, you will support the publicity team on theatrical releases from first announcement through to opening weekend.

You will work closely with internal marketing and distribution teams, filmmakers, talent representatives, freelance publicists and press to make sure every release gets the visibility it deserves.

Key responsibilities:

• Support the delivery of publicity campaigns for theatrical releases, assisting with plans, timelines and key press moments.
• Build and maintain press and media lists, keeping contact details up to date across national, regional, trade and online outlets.
• Draft and distribute press materials including press releases, synopses, cast and crew biographies and production notes.
• Coordinate press screenings, junior screenings, premieres and events, managing invitations, RSVPs and guest lists.
• Assist with interview and junket logistics, scheduling talent and filmmaker interviews and supporting on the day.
• Pitch stories and screening opportunities to journalists under the guidance of senior colleagues.
• Monitor, collate and circulate press coverage, selecting strong reviews and quotes for use in advertising and marketing materials.
• Manage and organise publicity assets such as stills, clips, trailers and screeners, ensuring approved materials are available for press and partners.
• Coordinate approvals with talent, agents and rights holders, consolidating feedback ahead of release.
• Liaise with the marketing, social media and digital teams to ensure publicity activity is aligned across each campaign.
• Maintain coverage reports and track press sentiment, supporting post-release reporting.
• Provide general administrative support to the publicity team, including budget tracking and invoice processing.

THE PERSON

You should be organised, enthusiastic and confident managing a varied workload within a busy film environment. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, as is the confidence to build relationships with journalists, filmmakers, agents and external partners.

Accuracy and attention to detail are key when preparing materials and managing approvals. You should be comfortable handling confidential material, juggling multiple deadlines and responding quickly to changing priorities. Previous experience in publicity, PR, communications or marketing, ideally within film, entertainment or media, will be valuable, whether gained through an internship, a junior role or an agency placement. Familiarity with press lists, media monitoring tools or coverage reporting would be advantageous.

A genuine passion for film, a positive attitude and a proactive, solutions-focused mindset will help you thrive in this role.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Searchlight only advertises active roles
• Your details will be sent directly to the Consultant who is handling this role
• We aim to respond to candidates within 14 days.

If this role isn’t quite right, but you would like us to have your CV on file, please send it to sroffice@searchlight.global.

Searchlight strives to promote equal opportunities for all. We welcome applications regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio-economic background, religion and/or belief.