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- Tasks: Develop and implement communication strategies to enhance the College's reputation and stakeholder engagement.
- Company: Ayrshire College is dedicated to empowering individuals through education and skills development.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team making a real impact in education and economic prosperity.
- Qualifications: Degree-level qualification in marketing, communication, or policy, or relevant experience required.
- Other info: Applications close on 20 April 2025; apply online for this exciting opportunity.
The predicted salary is between 43672 - 43672 £ per year.
Location: Ayrshire College, Hill Street, Kilmarnock, KA1 3HY
Salary: £43,672 per year
Contract Type: Permanent
Position Type: Full Time
Hours: 35 hours per week
Work From Home: Hybrid
We have an exciting opportunity for a dynamic and innovative individual to join the College as a Strategic Communications and Policy Advisor. In this role, you will support the Marketing and Communications Manager to develop and implement integrated communication strategies designed to strengthen the College's reputation, maximise stakeholder engagement, influence strategic partners, and deliver compelling content across a range of media platforms.
A key focus of this role will be to strategically position Ayrshire College as an essential partner and trusted voice in education, skills, and economic prosperity across key sectors. You will support effective public and corporate relations through identifying compelling stories and opportunities to amplify the work of the College across the Ayrshire region and beyond.
You will contribute to the implementation of communication plans that align with the College's vision of 'Empowering People for a Changing World,' establishing the College as the anchor institution for education, skills development, and economic growth within the regional economy.
In this role, you will build and maintain positive working relationships with the Marketing and Communications team, senior leadership, wider college teams, and external partners. You will also be responsible for proactively managing the College's reputation across all channels, anticipating and mitigating potential risks.
Applicants should possess a qualification at SCQF Level 10 (Degree level or equivalent) in a marketing, communication, or policy-related subject area, or have significant relevant experience in a marketing and communication environment. Experience within the College sector is preferred but not mandatory.
A comprehensive understanding of marketing and communication principles related to developing and delivering marketing communication services is required, alongside strong communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills. Additionally, evidence of ongoing Continuous Professional Development in the marketing and communications sector is necessary.
If you meet these criteria and seek a fulfilling career, we invite you to apply and join our team. Please refer to the person specification for further details on essential and desirable requirements.
The closing date for applications to this vacancy is 11.59pm on 20 April 2025.
Application Procedure: To apply for the post, please visit the web site and apply online. If you require any assistance, please contact the HR team on 01292 293005. Thank you for your interest in pursuing a career with Ayrshire College.
Strategic Communication and Policy Advisor (1FTE, Permanent) employer: Ayrshire College
Contact Detail:
Ayrshire College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Communication and Policy Advisor (1FTE, Permanent)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Ayrshire College's mission and values. Understanding their vision of 'Empowering People for a Changing World' will help you align your communication strategies with their goals, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Ayrshire College. Engaging with them can provide insights into the college culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends in strategic communication and policy within the education sector. Being knowledgeable about recent developments will demonstrate your commitment to the field and your ability to contribute effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed communications or public relations in previous roles. Having specific stories ready will showcase your experience and skills, making you stand out during discussions.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Communication and Policy Advisor (1FTE, Permanent)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements of the Strategic Communication and Policy Advisor position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these aspects.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience in marketing, communication, or policy-related fields. Use bullet points to make it easy to read and focus on achievements that demonstrate your ability to contribute to the College's goals.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your enthusiasm for the role and the College's mission. Highlight specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your strategic thinking and communication skills, as well as your understanding of the education sector.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ayrshire College
✨Research Ayrshire College
Before your interview, take the time to thoroughly research Ayrshire College. Understand its mission, values, and recent initiatives. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the institution.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Given the strategic nature of the role, be ready to discuss how you would handle specific scenarios related to communication strategies and stakeholder engagement. Think of examples from your past experience that showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to think strategically.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Strategic Communication and Policy Advisor, strong communication skills are essential. During the interview, articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently. Use examples to illustrate your points, and don’t hesitate to ask clarifying questions if needed.
✨Highlight Continuous Professional Development
The job description mentions the importance of ongoing professional development. Be prepared to discuss any relevant training or courses you've undertaken in marketing and communications. This shows your commitment to staying updated in your field and enhances your candidacy.
