Communications Officer

Responsibilities

• Communications partner to internal clients - working to identify and prioritise projects, developments and events that need to be shared with internal and external audiences.
• Support internal clients by providing guidance around communications issues and by developing effective communications plans to share messaging with key audiences across all channels, including social media.
• Write engaging and appropriate copy for internal and external audiences, including press releases, newsletter, internal and external briefings, web copy and social media.
• Support with internal and external communication events.
• Handle and log media enquiries, including drafting proactive and reactive press statements and briefings, building relationships with key journalists, organising media interviews and media monitoring.
• Support communications with key external stakeholder groups.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of the Inspectorate’s communications strategy.
• Support team working outside specific role as required.
• Recognise and promote diversity issues in all aspects of work.

Requirements

• Degree (or equivalent qualification) in Communications, Media, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing or a related discipline or significant relevant professional experience.
• Substantial experience delivering strategic communications and media services in a complex organisation.
• Proven experience of developing and delivering communications strategies, plans and campaigns with measurable outcomes.
• Strong experience handling high-profile, sensitive and complex media issues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce high-quality content for diverse audiences.
• Demonstrable experience of media relations, including press releases, briefings and interviews.
• Experience of digital and social media communications, including content creation and performance analysis.
• Ability to provide strategic advice to senior leaders and stakeholders.
• Experience of working collaboratively across teams and with external partners.
• Strong organisational, project management and prioritisation skills.

Preferred

• Experience working in the public sector, education or a politically sensitive environment.
• Experience providing communications support directly to schools, youth services or community-based organisations.