At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape the voice of a public sector organisation through strategic communications and media relations.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking public sector organisation making a real impact in the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and the chance to influence high-profile projects.
- Why this job: This role offers hands-on experience in a fast-paced environment with opportunities for creative campaigns.
- Qualifications: Degree in communications or related field; strong writing and media skills required.
- Other info: Temporary contract for approximately 2 months; immediate start needed.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 ÂŁ per year.
Help shape the voice and reputation of a high-profile public sector organisation.
A unique opportunity has arisen for an experienced Press and Communications Officer to join a forward-thinking public sector organisation on a temporary basis. This role is ideal for someone with strong communications expertise who can hit the ground running and deliver high-quality, strategic communications that make an immediate impact.
You’ll play a central role in shaping the organisation’s external voice, enhancing its reputation across a number of platforms, engaging a wide range of audiences—from government and business leaders to local communities.
About the Role
This is a fast-paced, hands-on role that will see you lead proactive media relations, deliver creative and results-driven campaigns, and advise senior leadership on communications strategy. You’ll support the delivery of high-profile projects and help ensure that the organisation’s voice is clear, consistent, and aligned with strategic objectives. You’ll work across press, digital, campaigns, stakeholder engagement, and internal communications, managing day-to-day activity as well as contributing to long-term communications planning.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver and support high-quality media relations activity across local, national, and international outlets
- Draft press releases, statements, speeches, digital content, and media briefings
- Plan and implement communications campaigns that align with organisational priorities
- Advise senior stakeholders on communications strategy, reputation management, and messaging
- Lead on internal communications including intranet updates and staff briefings
- Commission external providers to support campaign delivery (e.g. photography, design, copywriting)
- Monitor communications impact and evaluate success against KPIs
- Build and maintain relationships with media contacts, partners, and stakeholders
What We’re Looking For
You’re a confident communicator with a strong news sense and excellent writing skills. You’re comfortable advising at senior levels and can balance strategic thinking with hands-on delivery. Experience in a public sector or politically sensitive environment is an advantage, but not essential.
You will bring:
- Proven experience in a senior communications or media role
- Excellent copywriting, editing, and content development skills
- Strong understanding of media relations and campaign delivery
- Ability to manage projects and meet tight deadlines
- Experience commissioning and managing external comms support
- A proactive, adaptable, and collaborative approach
Qualifications
- Degree or equivalent in communications, journalism, media or a related field (essential)
- Additional professional or leadership qualifications (desirable)
- Willingness to travel and work flexibly as required
Interested in a short-term role with real influence? Apply now and help drive strategic communications at the heart of the public sector. If this role sounds of interest don’t delay get in touch with a copy of your CV and supporting statement giving reasons for your interest and suitability for this role. This is time to showcase your communication skills. This is a temporary contract for c. 2 months so it will require someone to hit the ground running. Flexible working potentially considered.
Press & Communications Officer employer: Sue Ross Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Sue Ross Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Press & Communications Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the organisation's current communications strategies and recent campaigns. Understanding their voice and objectives will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate how you can enhance their reputation.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the public sector or communications field. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with individuals who may provide insights or referrals that could give you an edge in the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of successful media relations or campaigns you've led in the past. Highlighting measurable outcomes will showcase your ability to deliver results and align with the organisation's strategic goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current events and trends in the public sector. Being knowledgeable about relevant issues will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and the organisation's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Press & Communications Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in communications and media roles. Focus on achievements that demonstrate your ability to deliver high-quality, strategic communications.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: In your supporting statement, clearly articulate your interest in the role and how your skills align with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Use specific examples from your past experience to showcase your expertise.
Showcase Your Writing Skills: Since excellent writing skills are crucial for this position, consider including samples of your previous work, such as press releases or campaign materials, to demonstrate your copywriting and content development abilities.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Mention any degrees or qualifications related to communications, journalism, or media. If you have additional professional qualifications, be sure to include those as well, as they can strengthen your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sue Ross Recruitment Ltd
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Press & Communications Officer, your ability to communicate effectively is crucial. Prepare examples of your past work that demonstrate your writing skills, media relations experience, and how you've successfully engaged different audiences.
✨Understand the Organisation's Voice
Research the public sector organisation thoroughly. Understand its mission, values, and current communications strategy. Be ready to discuss how you can enhance its voice and reputation across various platforms.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Think about how you would handle a media crisis or develop a campaign under tight deadlines, and be prepared to articulate your thought process.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Highlight your ability to balance strategic planning with hands-on execution. Discuss how you have previously aligned communications campaigns with organisational priorities and how you measure their success against KPIs.