Sophie Cornish
Nice, France
Summary
Strategic communications and public relations specialist with over seven years of experience in high-pressure government and corporate environments. Skilled in developing and executing effective internal communication strategies, and crafting compelling narratives that engage diverse audiences. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver impactful communication campaigns, including navigating political and media responses to sensitive, high-profile international issues, while ensuring alignment with organizational values.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Media and External Affairs Advisor
Queensland Law Society
Brisbane
12.2023 - 08.2024
- Managed media enquiries and proactively engaged with journalists to generate coverage.
- Coordinated interviews for spokespeople, including the President, CEO, and SMEs.
- Prepared briefing materials for interviews and press conferences to ensure consistent messaging.
- Created and published multimedia content across social media channels.
- Supported leadership in delivering strategic messages to stakeholders.
- Oversaw media monitoring, analysed coverage, and provided insights to senior leadership.
- Managed the organisation’s public image through speeches, news articles, and digital content.
- Collaborated across teams, sharing best practices and contributing content to joint initiatives.
Ministerial Press Secretary
New Zealand Government
Wellington
08.2022 - 10.2023
- Advised senior ministers, including the Ministers of Justice, Police, Digital Economy, and Regional Development, on media strategy and communications.
- Press Secretary to the Prime Minister during the 2023 election campaign.
- Developed media messaging on major international issues, including high-profile extraditions and UN agreements.
- Supported the organisation of ministerial visits, media events, and official travel.
- Planned and executed strategic communications aligned with government policy announcements.
- Identified potential risks and provided advice on mitigation strategies.
- Maintained collaborative relationships with the Prime Minister's office, government departments, media, parliamentary colleagues, and community organizations.
- Crafted ministerial speeches, press releases, and official statements.
- Thrived in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, adapting quickly to emerging issues.
Journalist
Stuff Ltd, The Post
Wellington
08.2020 - 08.2022
- Sourced and produced exclusive, agenda-setting news articles with national and international focus.
- Built and maintained strong relationships with key figures in Police and justice sectors.
- Covered major breaking news events with accuracy and speed.
- Collaborated with colleagues during fast-moving news coverage and mentored junior staff.
- Reported sensitively on crime, working closely with victims and affected communities.
Journalist
The Christchurch Star
Christchurch
08.2017 - 03.2020
- Set the news agenda for The Star, breaking stories of national significance for major outlets including The New Zealand Herald and Otago Daily Times.
- Reported on major international events, including the Christchurch terror attack.
- Closely contributed to a 17% increase in readership, the largest among metropolitan newspapers in New Zealand at the time.
- Sourced and produced exclusive articles on crime, justice, health, culture, and social issues while meeting multiple deadlines.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Media and Communications and Political Science
University of Canterbury
Christchurch, New Zealand04-2018
Bachelor of Arts - Exchange Programme
Danish School of Media And Journalism
Copenhagen, Denmark05-2016
Skills
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
- Strong social media expertise and digital literacy
- High emotional intelligence; adept at building relationships in multicultural and dynamic environments
- Crisis communications and risk mitigation
- Proven ability to manage multiple deadlines in fast-paced settings
- Strong networking and collaborative teamwork skills
- Self-motivated and comfortable working independently
- Highly organized, proactive, and attentive to detail
- Modern and creative outlook
- Strong initiative and resilience
Timeline
Media and External Affairs Advisor
Queensland Law Society
12.2023 - 08.2024
Ministerial Press Secretary
New Zealand Government
08.2022 - 10.2023
Journalist
Stuff Ltd, The Post
08.2020 - 08.2022
Journalist
The Christchurch Star
08.2017 - 03.2020
Bachelor of Arts - Media and Communications and Political Science
University of Canterbury
Bachelor of Arts - Exchange Programme
Danish School of Media And Journalism