PERSON SPECIFICATIONESSENTIAL SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

✅ Proven experience managing communications within a complex organisation
✅ Strong knowledge of campaign planning models (OASIS/ROSIE), audience insights, and evaluation methods
✅ Excellent written and verbal communication, including press releases, media briefings, and digital content
✅ Expertise in media handling, story pitching, and crisis communications
✅ Experience advising senior leaders and coordinating with internal and external stakeholders
✅ Demonstrated success in using social media, video content, and newsletters to grow audiences
✅ Leadership experience managing junior team members and overseeing day-to-day output
✅ High level of political and strategic awareness, especially in a public sector context

JOB PURPOSE

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Communications Officer to lead, develop, and deliver high-impact communication strategies that enhance public engagement, build trust, and elevate the organisation’s profile across all channels.
In this role, you’ll take charge of external communications for a directorate, manage a small team of communications officers, and drive content, campaigns, and media engagement that aligns with strategic goals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead external communications across your assigned directorate, aligning messaging with key organisational priorities.
• Plan and deliver multi-channel campaigns using models such as OASIS, with measurable outcomes and clear audience targeting.
• Build and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national media, preparing press releases, briefings, and managing media enquiries — including during crisis situations.
• Develop content across all platforms including digital, print, press, and social media, ensuring consistency with branding and tone.
• Deliver communications advice and strategic input to senior officers, directors, and members.
• Horizon-scan to anticipate emerging reputational issues and opportunities for positive engagement.
• Evaluate campaign performance, prepare reports, and analyse data in collaboration with Strategy and Policy teams.
• Actively contribute to key team structures including the Communications Management Team, editorial planning grids, and daily huddles.
• Mentor and manage Communications Officers, providing leadership, feedback, and development support.
• Support stakeholder engagement, including public consultation activities and events.
• Manage and participate in the out-of-hours press rota, ensuring timely, accurate responses to urgent issues.