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- Tasks: Create engaging digital content and high-quality publications to inspire local economic transformation.
- Company: Join the Centre for Local Economic Strategies, a leading independent think tank in Manchester.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and flexible hours for work-life balance.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a real impact on local economies and communities.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a passion for social change.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to grow with us as we celebrate our 40th anniversary in 2026.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 36000 £ per year.
The Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES) is the national organisation for local economies. We are recruiting a Communications Officer to join our Manchester-based team, with hybrid working and office attendance at least one day per week.
Now is an exciting time to join us. In 2026 we will celebrate our fortieth year, launch our new-look brand and website, and step up our news and advocacy profile. To help us achieve this, we are looking for a Communications Officer to join our team, based out of our Manchester office.
Salary and Location
- Salary: £32,000 FTE (based on a four-day working week). We are open to applications for either full time or part time working. The part-time salary for three days per week would be pro-rated to £24,000 per year.
- Location: Based in our Manchester office. We offer hybrid working but this post will require attendance in the office on at least one day per week.
Responsibilities
- Deliver the communications workstream, including creating engaging digital content, high quality publications, and inspiring events.
- Collaborate with the Associate Director of External Affairs and the whole CLES team to give a voice to local economic transformation.
- Help develop and implement communication plans to support think tank external affairs activities and raise the organisation’s profile.
About Us
We are the Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES) – an independent economics think tank and charity. We work collaboratively across the UK and beyond to develop solutions to ensure economies are rooted in the places people call home. We are internationally recognised experts in Community Wealth Building, which we use to improve public services, strengthen social infrastructure, accelerate innovation and facilitate a just climate transition.
Reporting to the Associate Director of External Affairs and working with the whole CLES team, you will help us give a voice to local economic transformation, through the delivery of our communications workstream.
Communications Officer in Manchester employer: CLES - The national organisation for local economies
Contact Detail:
CLES - The national organisation for local economies Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Communications Officer in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with CLES on social media. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio of your best work, especially if it includes digital content or publications. This will give us a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching CLES and our mission. Understand our focus on local economies and think about how your experience aligns with our goals. We love candidates who are genuinely passionate!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team at CLES.
We think you need these skills to ace Communications Officer in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who we are at CLES. Tailor your application to reflect our mission and values, showing us how your skills can contribute to local economic transformation.
Be Engaging and Clear: When crafting your written application, make sure it’s engaging and easy to read. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We want to see your personality shine through while keeping it professional!
Showcase Relevant Experience: Highlight any previous experience that aligns with the responsibilities of the Communications Officer role. Whether it’s creating digital content or organising events, let us know how your background makes you a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super straightforward!
How to prepare for a job interview at CLES - The national organisation for local economies
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into CLES's mission and recent projects. Familiarise yourself with their work on Community Wealth Building and how it impacts local economies. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you connect your skills to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
As a Communications Officer, creativity is key! Prepare examples of engaging digital content or publications you've created in the past. Bring along a portfolio if possible, and be ready to discuss how you can bring fresh ideas to their communications workstream.
✨Collaboration is Key
CLES values teamwork, so be prepared to discuss your experience working collaboratively. Think of specific instances where you’ve worked with others to achieve a common goal, especially in communications or advocacy roles. Highlight how you can contribute to their team dynamic.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready. Ask about their upcoming brand launch or how they envision the role evolving over the next few years. This shows you're not just interested in the job, but also in the future of the organisation.
