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- Tasks: Lead impactful communication strategies and mentor junior officers in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Local Authority in North Yorkshire with a focus on community engagement.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, potential for contract extension, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Fast-paced political environment with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local governance while enhancing your communications skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Communications or related field, with experience in high-level communications.
The predicted salary is between 25 - 31 £ per hour.
We are working closely alongside a Local Authority in North Yorkshire to assist with the appointment of a Senior Communications Officer, on a 3-month contract, highly likely to be extended at clients discretion. Please apply with your CV for immediate consideration. Rate of Pay: £25.06- £31.78 per hour.
Summary: The Senior Communications Officer is a strategic and operational lead responsible for the planning and delivery of high-impact communication activities across a defined portfolio of Council services. You will translate complex organizational goals into creative, multi-channel campaigns that resonate with diverse stakeholders and residents. Operating within a fast-paced political environment, you will act as a senior advisor on media relations, manage reputation-sensitive issues, and provide mentorship to junior officers to ensure a consistent and professional corporate voice.
Responsibilities:
- Translate high-level organizational objectives into robust communication plans, identifying key audiences, messaging, and measurable KPIs.
- Lead the delivery of a dedicated portfolio of work (e.g., Environment, Housing, or Social Care), ensuring all activity aligns with the Council's core values and strategic priorities.
- Build strong working relationships with Cabinet Members, Directors, and external partners to provide expert communications advice.
- Support the professional development of junior Communications Officers by providing guidance on best practices, reviewing draft content, and overseeing workload distribution.
Qualifications:
- A degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
Essentials:
- Understanding of the Code of Recommended Practice on Local Authority Publicity and Data Protection (GDPR) requirements for marketing and communications.
- Proven experience in delivering high-level communications, including sophisticated media handling and the end-to-end development of communication plans.
- Prior experience working within a local government, central government, or a similar highly political/regulated environment.
Please note: You should be available to work immediately or at short notice. You should have the right to work in the U.K.
Senior Communications Officer in York employer: Brackenberry
Contact Detail:
Brackenberry Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Communications Officer in York
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the communications field, especially those who have experience in local government. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Council's recent communication campaigns. Show us you know their work and how you can contribute to their goals. Tailor your examples to highlight your strategic thinking and media handling skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow the Council and engage with their posts. This not only keeps you updated but also shows your genuine interest in their initiatives when you land that interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! We’re here to help you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any tips or guidance on your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Communications Officer in York
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Communications Officer role. Highlight your experience in delivering high-level communications and any relevant work within local government. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of successful campaigns or projects you've led, especially those that resonate with diverse stakeholders. This will help us see the impact you've made in previous roles.
Keep It Professional: While we love a bit of personality, remember to keep your application professional. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We want to see your communication skills shine through right from the start!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of being considered, make sure to apply through our website. It streamlines the process for us and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Brackenberry
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of a Senior Communications Officer. Brush up on your knowledge of local government operations and the specific services you'll be working with, like Environment or Housing. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to handle media relations and develop communication plans. Be ready to discuss how you've translated complex objectives into effective campaigns, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with the interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current communication strategies and express genuine interest in their work. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are invested in their mission.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios
Expect scenario-based questions where you might need to address reputation-sensitive issues or mentor junior officers. Think through potential challenges you could face in a political environment and how you'd navigate them. This will demonstrate your strategic thinking and leadership skills.