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AYUP!
I’m Chris Birks - a communications professional based in the East Midlands - with a background in broadcasting, public service, trade unions and local government.
Over the years, I’ve led communications strategies, managed high-profile media work, shaped public narratives, and built trusted relationships across sectors. Whether it’s crafting a message, handling a crisis, or delivering a campaign, I bring a practical, people-focused approach that gets results.
EXPERIENCE
2021 - Present
Media, Comms and Campaigns Lead
UNISON East Midlands
Working strategically to tell the regional story of the UK's largest trade union, creating compelling content for digital and print channels, overseeing campaign delivery, and ensuring effective communications across the East Midlands. I also manage events and work directly with senior management to deliver high-impact communication and stakeholder engagement initiatives that align with the union's strategic goals.
June - December 2024
Interim Head of Mayoral Communications
East Midlands Combined County Authority
As Head of Mayoral Communications for Claire Ward, I was responsible for shaping and delivering the Mayor’s communication strategy, ensuring clear, impactful messaging across all public-facing activities. I worked closely with the Mayor to provide strategic advice and support, helping drive key priorities and strengthen relationships with stakeholders at all levels. As the de facto head of the Mayor’s Office, I oversaw a multidisciplinary team, coordinating everything from policy development to casework, and making sure that briefings, correspondence, and stakeholder activities were delivered effectively.
June 2020 - November 2021
Broadcast Journalist
BBC Radio Derby
Presented and produced weekday and weekend radio shows across the East Midlands. Finding, researching, and reporting multi-platform stories using a variety of treatments and creatives. Building and maintaining an enviable contacts book to ensure I had almost immediate access to key local stakeholders and officials.
June 2017 - May 2020
Deputy Content Director
Hi FM, Oman
Managed the day-to-day operations of the country’s largest radio brand, oversaw all on-air and social media content. Led a locally based content team, and a larger number of remote overseas staff, through regular performance sessions and interventions.
February 2016 - June 2017
Programme Controller
More Radio
The UK’s youngest commercial radio controller leading a team of broadcasters, journalists, and content creators. Implemented an aggressive digital-first local news-led offering and overhauled the brand’s digital and social media presence, significantly growing both audience figures and commercial revenue. Trusted advisor to the group’s senior leadership team.
February 2014 - May 2016
Head of Programming
Pearl FM, UAE
Responsible for launch of the UAE's first children's radio station. Led the public-facing side of the business which included PR, communications, marketing, and branding work. I built up successful relationships with stakeholders including The Walt Disney Company to secure programming content and financial investment. As Advisor to the Founder, I managed the day-to-day operations, prioritised requests and conflicting demands, made decisions on his behalf, and ensured he was fully briefed ahead of all business-critical meetings, reports, and speeches.
EXPERIENCE
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