Job opportunities

Communications Officer

Paignton Zoo in Devon and Newquay Zoo in Cornwall are among the South West’s most loved and leading wildlife attractions. With rich, fascinating histories, strong foundations in conservation, education and research, and a diverse collection of over 2,800 animals across both sites, these zoos offer an exciting and dynamic environment to lead.

Both zoos have recently become part of Libéma, one of the Netherlands’ leading leisure organisations, bringing new opportunities for innovation, collaboration and growth.

 

Communications Officer

Permanent

37.5 hours per week

£27,183.00 per annum

 

Are you a creative communications professional with a passion for storytelling, media relations and digital content? We’re looking for a Communications Officer to deliver high‑impact, engaging communications that strengthen our zoos’ brands, drive visitor numbers and support revenue‑generating campaigns.

This is a hands‑on, dynamic role where you’ll shape how our zoos are seen and experienced — from daily digital updates to high‑profile media activity.

 

The Role

As Communications Officer, you will help shape and deliver effective communication strategies aligned with organisational and marketing objectives. You’ll create engaging written, visual and digital content, manage media relations, and support campaigns that drive brand awareness and visitor engagement.

You’ll act as a key media contact, advise colleagues on communication and reputational matters, and coordinate press activity including interviews, media visits and events. Working closely with internal teams, you’ll ensure all messaging is accurate, inclusive and aligned with brand guidelines.

You’ll also support digital content management, monitor engagement and media coverage, contribute to internal communications, and assist with events and external activities as required.

 

About You

You’ll be an experienced communications professional with:

·         A relevant qualification in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related discipline.

·         Proven experience producing engaging content for digital platforms, including websites and email communications.

·         Experience supporting public relations activity, such as drafting press releases and assisting with the coordination of media visits or press engagement.

·         Demonstrated ability to deliver high‑quality written and visual content to tight deadlines.

·         Experience working with established brands and consistently applying tone‑of‑voice and style guidelines.

·         Ability to gather, interpret and synthesise information from multiple stakeholders to produce accurate, engaging and audience‑focused content.

·         Excellent writing, editing and proofreading skills, with strong attention to detail and accuracy.

·         Practical experience capturing photography and/or video content suitable for promotional and digital use.

·         Confidence using content scheduling or publishing platforms to manage and plan communications activity.

 

At Paignton Zoo, we believe taking care of our team is just as important as caring for our animals. That’s why we offer a benefits package that’s packed with perks: enjoy 33 days of paid holiday pro-rata (yes, even Bank Holidays!) and access to top-tier training—from First Aid to driving a tractor. Your family can join the adventure too, with free zoo entry for loved ones, plus sweet discounts on food and retail while you’re on site. We’ll make parking a breeze with free staff spaces and support your wellbeing through our Employee Assistance Programme. Fancy joining the Firearms team? Opportunities await—pending a few conditions, of course.

 

We proudly champion equality of opportunity for all our team members. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities, including but not limited to age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, and marriage or civil partnerships. Inclusion isn't just a policy—it’s part of our culture. Everyone deserves the chance to thrive here.