Communications and Media Relations Manager

European Cyclists' Federation

Start date
End of November 2026

About the Organisation

ECF is the single European umbrella federation for cycling advocacy. We unite more than 89 member organisations in over 40 countries, amplifying the voice of everyday cyclists across Europe and beyond. Our mission is to promote cycling as a sustainable and inclusive means of transport, leisure, and tourism. We support our members, advocate for cycling-friendly policy, and showcase the power of the bicycle to transform lives and communities.

About the role

The European Cyclists' Federation (ECF) is looking for a Communications and Media Relations Manager to join its Brussels-based team. The Communications and Media Relations Manager leads ECF's communications and visibility, while also supporting EuroVelo and Velo-city brands, towards EU institutions, the media, project partners and international stakeholders.

You will report to the CEO, manage the Communications team, and work closely with the other teams across ECF to ensure that our messages are clear and that the voice of cyclists is heard and acted upon by policy- and decision-makers in Brussels, across Europe and beyond.

Responsibilities

Communications Strategy & Planning:

• Develop, implement and evaluate the annual communications and media relations plan, aligning activities with ECF's organisational priorities and strategic objectives
• Ensure consistency of messaging across all channels and audiences
• Manage and allocate team resources according to priorities (currently 2.5 FTE)
• Coordinate ECF's visibility at key conferences and events, monitor speaking engagements and booth preparations where applicable
• Lead on the drafting, design and publication of the ECF Annual Report

Content Creation & Editorial Management:

• Oversee the creation of high-quality content (news, articles, speeches, newsletters, reports) based on ECF advocacy priorities and knowledge products
• Develop core messaging and campaigns to support our advocacy and fundraising efforts
• Plan and create content (written and visual) for ECF's audiences, including the website, newsletters, social media, and press
• Oversee communications for EU-funded projects and contribute to relevant deliverables and reporting

Media Relations:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, media outlets, and opinion leaders
• Draft and distribute press releases, media pitches, and statements
• Coordinate media interviews, briefings, and press events
• Monitor media coverage and manage reputational issues and crisis communications when needed

Digital & Internal Communications:

• Manage ECF's website, mailing system, and digital communication channels (CMS, CRM, Brevo, newsletters, press releases, LinkedIn, Instagram, Bluesky)
• Develop a digital communications strategy to ensure high engagement and grow ECF's audience
• Support all ECF teams with key messages, talking points, and presentations

Skills, Competencies, Experience & Attributes

Experience:

• At least 5 years' experience in a communications role, e.g. in advocacy, public administration, PR consultancy or similar, with a proven track record
• Experience in advocacy, campaigning and media relations
• Experience managing a team
• Experience working in an international and/or membership-based organisation is a plus

Competencies, Skills & Attributes:

• Highly motivated, open-minded, proactive and results-oriented
• A team player who works well in diverse teams and is an effective networker
• Ability to plan and structure communications activities to maximise their impact
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (near-native proficiency)
• Design and social media skills and ability to explore different formats for different audiences and objectives (visuals, videos and graphics)
• Proven experience in communications and media relations
• Experience in advocacy communications and campaigning
• Excellent writing and editing skills
• Strong command of English

Required Qualifications

• A degree in a relevant field and relevant professional qualifications in communications or journalism

Compensation & Benefits

• 20 legal vacation days and 10 extra-legal vacation days
• Cycling to work allowance
• Public transportation allowance
• Work from home allowance
• Lunch vouchers and eco-cheques
• Extra-legal pension scheme.

Working locations

• Brussels, Belgium

How to apply

• Please send your CV and cover letter in one PDF in English to [email protected] with the subject line: "First Name Last Name - Communications and Media Relations Manager". Your application has to include:
  • Cover letter in English (max. 1 page)
  • CV in English (max. 2 pages)
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The closing date for applications is 23rd October 2026, EOB.  Depending on the selected candidate’s availability.
• Thank you in advance to all those who take the time to apply for this position. Due to the high number of applicants expected.

Interviews

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Policies

ECF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of racial or ethnic origin, opinions, beliefs, gender, sexual orientation, health condition, or disability.

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