Joe Smithies
About Joe Smithies
Joe Smithies is the Head of Media & Corporate Relations at Ofcom, where he oversees the media office and manages communications strategies. He has extensive experience in media relations, having previously held roles at Informa, Penton Media, and Digital UK.
Current Role at Ofcom
Joe Smithies serves as the Head of Media & Corporate Relations at Ofcom, a position he has held since 2015. In this role, he oversees the media office, managing the daily publishing schedule and a reactive news operation. He leads a team of senior communications specialists, focusing on personnel management, strategic planning, budgeting, and recruitment. Smithies provides counsel on communications and reputational matters to the Chief Executive and senior management, handling complex announcements and issues related to corporate reputation.
Previous Experience in Media
Before joining Ofcom, Joe Smithies held various positions in the media sector. He worked at Informa as Deputy Editor from 2003 to 2006, where he contributed to editorial operations. Prior to that, he was a Reporter at Penton Media from 2001 to 2002. Additionally, he served as Publicity Manager at Digital UK from 2006 to 2012, where he managed publicity efforts. Smithies also had a brief tenure at Ofcom as Director of Communications (interim) from 2020 to 2021.
Education and Academic Background
Joe Smithies studied at Durham University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy, graduating with a BA (Dunelm) from 1996 to 1999. His academic background in philosophy has likely contributed to his analytical skills and ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
Media Training and Communication Skills
In his current role at Ofcom, Joe Smithies serves as a media trainer and spokesperson, equipping colleagues with the skills necessary for effective communication with the media. He acts as a speechwriter and editorial writer for the Chief Executive and senior colleagues, ensuring that messaging aligns with corporate objectives and public expectations.