Communications Officer (39K)

VANRATH are delighted to be partnering with our client, a large and well-known Public Sector Organisation, in their recruitment of a Deputy Communications Officer to join their well-established team. This role is initially on a 6-month temporary basis, with possible further extension.

Responsibilities

The Communications Office business area in the Organisation is responsible for providing information to the media, the public, government departments and other stakeholders through various means including media relations, broadcasting services and digital channels. Information communicated covers the Speaker's office, plenary and committee business, the commission and public engagement activities.

The Deputy Communications Officer is responsible for providing information concerning the work and membership of the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Identifying, developing and leading on communications opportunities to promote the work of organisational committees, public-facing business areas (e.g. Events, Engagement, Education Service, Research, Building Services
• Creating strategic and engaging content for a wide range of platforms and audiences, including press releases, web pages, advertisements, social media posts, graphics, and videos.
• Planning, delivering and managing a programme of audience-focused, cross-channel communications and marketing campaigns, including budget for paid activity.
• Responding to and managing media enquiries in a timely and professional manner, including liaising with senior staff, developing and managing drafts, obtaining sign-off, recording and filing responses, and monitoring output.
• Drafting content to prepare the senior staff for media opportunities e.g. lines-to-take, briefing notes, speaking notes etc.
• Advising the senior staff and business areas on communications objectives and creating communications plans to reach those objectives, including advising on the best methods, messages and channels to reach and influence target audiences.
• Tracking, measuring and evaluating communications activities and reporting on successes and learning's / insight.
• Researching and implementing creative and innovative approaches to communication and engagement.
• Building and maintaining positive working relationships with media personnel, colleagues, and stakeholders to support and enhance coverage of the organisation and its work.
• Monitoring and evaluating coverage of the organisation in the media and other outlets, including print, broadcast and online.
• Managing, motivating and developing staff and evaluating staff performance.
• Managing information and records in accordance with established policies and statutory requirements.

Essential Experience

Applicants must, by the closing date for applications have:

Five GCSE passes at Grades A, B or C in five separate subjects, which must include English Language; plus at least two 'A' level passes at Grades A, B or C in any subjects

AND

• At least 1 years' experience in the areas specified at (iii) below;

OR

(ii) At least 3 years' experience in the areas specified at (iii) below:

(iii) (a) Working in a Press Office/Communications Office environment; (b) Working with print, broadcast and online media; and (c) Demonstrating an awareness of political sensitivities when dealing with the media, elected representatives, senior public officials or members of the public

Remuneration

• An excellent opportunity to join a very well-established Public Sector Organisation in Northern Ireland.
• Highly competitive salary ranging from £39,442 - £40,625
• Immediate start on offer.

Candidates must also be able to demonstrate, on their CV's, that they have knowledge of the Northern Ireland Assembly/Government, United Kingdom/Republic of Ireland government and cross-border institutions.

For further information on this vacancy, or any other Public Sector job in Belfast or wider Northern Ireland, please apply via the link below or contact Jamie Gault in the strictest confidence.

Established in 2000, VANRATH has become a market leader in Northern Ireland. This success is a direct result of our dedication to confidentiality, professionalism and the wealth of knowledge held by our Senior Consultants. VANRATH has a demonstrable track record in pairing the best local talent with leading local businesses.

Our consultants are sector specific and have an in-depth knowledge of, and experience in, their respective fields. Put simply, they are the best in the business! We continually monitor trends and developments within the market to ensure we provide the very highest quality advice and support to our clients and candidates.