Stephen Watson
146 Chaddock Lane, Worsley, Greater Manchester, M28 1DF. Tel: 07824 536169
Email: steve_watson1982@yahoo.co.uk
Profile
I am an enthusiastic, dedicated and experienced journalist, media and public relations professional looking for the next
challenge in my career. I have the ability to work under a high level of pressure and have produced award winning
journalism; an example being winning the Sky Bet League One Programme of the Year Award for the 2013/14
season. My writing has also been acclaimed with a work placement at Manchester United offered during my time as a
sports journalism student at the University of Central Lancashire. The use of excellent communication, immense
knowledge and passion for a range of sports both locally and internationally coupled with a broad understanding of
world affairs adds depth and interest to my journalistic writing, broadcasting and flair; my radio broadcasting skills
receiving praise from the BBC’s broadcast training expert Rob Nothman.
Employment History
July 2011 – August 2015, Preston North End FC, Public Relations and Media Executive
Along with managing a team of students, I was responsible for the vast majority of media content produced by the
football club, such as being the main contributor to the matchday programme, club website, social media outlets and
YouTube, including all editorial and production decisions.
I conducted interviews for print and broadcast purposes with players, management and the coaching staff, often on
camera and for external agencies such as the BBC and the new Channel 5 Football League Show.
I’ve experience of doing lead and co-commentary work for local BBC radio and our in-house ‘Player’ subscription
service. I also co-commentated on our best-selling Play-Off Final DVD.
I managed all external press enquiries from the likes of Sky, ITV and multiple national newspapers; I also produced
press releases on a daily basis.
I have launched and developed various marketing and public relations campaigns such as ‘All White On The Night’.
I grew the club’s social media audience by over 800 per cent on certain platforms since March 2013 when I was given
full editorial control.
I was the executive producer of the piloted ‘PNE TV’ show.
I managed and helped co-ordinate the media and public relations output of the club’s appointment of one chairman,
three manager changes, ‘spot-fixing’ allegations and the death and subsequent funeral of Sir Tom Finney, a massive
event in the city of Preston’s history.
April 2005 - Nov 2009, Lothian & Borders Police (now Police Scotland), Police Officer
I worked as a front line beat officer, dealing with a multitude of tasks such as attending emergency calls, organising
local public relations events such as ‘Midnight Football’, working with members of the public, interviewing
suspects/witnesses, completing administrative tasks and writing reports all under extreme pressure and to tight
deadlines, often in dangerous and extreme circumstances.
My writing skills were enhance by writing lengthy reports and referrals for the procurator fiscal, social work
departments, local councils, legal departments and partner agencies to name but a few.
Work Experience (Media Related)
Between 2010 – 2013 I travelled the length and breadth of the UK gaining vital work experience in the media industry
around my studies, writing and producing content, online and offline, for a range of newspapers and magazines at
both national and regional level. I spent time with the Daily Mirror, the Lancashire Evening Post, the Herald,
Accrington Stanley FC and Goal.Com. Working with these organisations gave me a glimpse of what is required to
succeed in the media and public relations industry, carrying out a host of tasks including interviewing, event reports,
social media output, live blogging and working to tight deadlines.
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Qualifications and Training
Sports Journalism BA (Hons), University of Central Lancashire, 2:1
NCTJ Shorthand, Passed, March 2013
NCTJ Essential Media Law, Passed, May 2012.
NC Communication and Media, Edinburgh’s Telford College, Grade A.
Final Cut Pro, 2 day intensive training course, Sept 2012.
School Grades – 8 passes at Scottish Standard Grade level including all core subjects.
Scottish Football Association – i) 'D' Certificate Practical, ii) Youth Team Management Module, iii) Scottish
Football Association Physical Preparation Module iv) 'E' Certificate Practical v) Basic First Aid Module vi) Working
With Young Footballers Module vii) Goalgetters Course.
Competent Computer Systems – Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Power Point,
Photoshop, Adobe Premiere Pro, Football League Sapient, iPBS Accreditation, Quark, Adobe Audition, Adobe
Premiere Elements, Adobe Final Cut Pro and Handbrake. Multiple content management systems.
Awards
Sport Trader Magazine Sky Bet League One Programme of the Year 2014/15
Top ten ranking in the Sport Social Media Index 2014
Sky Bet League One Programme of the Year 2013/14 – Accolade won for the matchday programme ‘The One And
Only’ as voted for by our media peers within the Football League.
Outstanding Achievement Award 2013 – Recipient based on the level of my university work as well as my ability to
hold down a full time job in the industry whilst completing my degree.
Manchester United FC – Selected for a prestigious work placement through my university course due to my work
ethic and journalism skills.
Programme Monthly League One Programme of the Year 2012/13
Northern Programme Club Independent Review Magazine Programme of the Year 2012/13
Hobbies/Interests
During my time with the police I took a 16 month career break to travel the world. I used this as an opportunity to
experience sport and the cultures of others in different countries. I gained a vast knowledge of American Football,
Australian Rules Football, Ice Hockey and Basketball. On my return, I decided to pursue a career in journalism and
public relations.
I am the former secretary of the University of Central Lancashire Pool and Darts Society and I dealt with all funding,
finances, fixture arrangements and ranking system.
I also enjoy keeping fit, music and reading – in particular sports autobiographies.
References
Andy Bayes, Broadcast Journalist, BBC Radio Lancashire, 01254 262411, 20-26 Darwen Street, Blackburn, BB2
2EA.
Colm Griffith, Course Leader, University of Central Lancashire, 01772 895041, Fylde Road, Preston, Lancashire, PR1
2HE.
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