Adviser to the Mayor Communications (News Media)

Responsibilities

• Provide high-level media and communications advice to the Mayor and Mayoral appointees as well as GLA teams, to ensure the priorities of the Mayor are delivered. Attend and participate in communications planning meetings and deliver activities outlined as required.
• Develop and utilise a significant network of contacts with key print, broadcast and online journalists, commentators, political editors and other correspondents, including the Westminster Lobby and national broadcasters.
• Demonstrate sound political judgement and high-quality political writing and keep up to date with current media trends including online media.
• Work with the digital team and others in external relations to ensure the Mayor’s priorities are communicated via news social media and content creators.
• Accompany the Mayor to external engagements and manage briefing and senior media stakeholder liaison, including on overseas visits.
• To write briefings and Q&As for the Mayor as required.
• To assist the Mayor’s Head of Strategic Communications and Senior Adviser to the Mayor, Briefing & Assembly Liaison by providing speechwriting and copy drafting support when required.
• Contribute to the management of cross-organisational communications activities as appropriate, working with the press, marketing and digital teams and the Mayor’s Office.
• To act-up to cover the role of Mayoral Director, Communications, as required as part of an out-of-hours rota.
• Manage staff and resources allocated to the job in accordance with the Authority’s policies and Code of Ethic and Standards.

Requirements

• A high level of knowledge and experience within media management.
• A proven track record of success of co-ordinating, developing, leading and implementing media and public relations activities in a political or complex organisation
• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the media - with particular regard to excellent relations with and contacts network of broadcast & print political reporters and correspondents - and experience of successfully targeting a range of different media to promote strategic policies and priorities.
• Experience of working with senior colleagues across policy and public affairs teams to solve problems and deliver communications outcomes.
• Being skilled to deliver high-quality written and in-person briefings to senior leaders under pressure and in a short time period.
• Knowledge and understanding of London and the issues facing a major world city

Preferred

• Flexible working arrangements including part-time or job share.

Benefits

• Hybrid working up to 3 days a week in our offices and remotely depending on role.
• 30 days’ annual leave
• interest free season ticket loan
• interest free bicycle loan
• career average pension scheme