At a Glance
- Tasks: Create engaging communication campaigns and manage media relations for impactful storytelling.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Flexible work options, 27 days leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working environment with a focus on employee wellbeing and support.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while honing your PR skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in communications, strong writing skills, and media relations expertise.
The predicted salary is between 33143 - 36343 £ per year.
The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Job reference: 000012214
Date posted: 27/05/2026
Application closing date: 14/06/2026
Working Pattern: Blank
Salary Grade G £33,143 - £36,343 a year
Contractual hours: 37
Basis: Full time
Job category/type: Communications / PR
Location: The Council House/Hybrid
Hours: 37 hours a week
Closing Date: 14 June 2026
Contract Type: Fixed Term until 31 August 2027, other posts available various contract lengths between 1-3 years
Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver insight‑based, creative promotional communication and marketing campaigns that align with business objectives.
- Work on the Council’s busy media desk, liaising with local and national press.
- Write news articles, press releases, statements and other media content.
- Manage media relations and maintain strong news sense.
- Produce short‑form video content, including filming and editing, where relevant.
- Support internal communications channels to keep colleagues informed.
- Occasional weekend and evening work may be required.
Qualifications
- Experienced communications professional with a strong background in PR.
- Excellent writing and storytelling skills, with an ability to produce clear, engaging content.
- Proven track record of successful media relations and campaign management.
- Understanding of digital media, social platforms, and analytics.
- Experience in filming, editing short‑form video is desirable.
- Diplomatic, confident, and enthusiastic approach to stakeholder engagement.
What We Offer
- Flexible work/life balance scheme (depending on your role)
- Modern office environment (depending on your job location)
- Continued professional development opportunities & career conversations
- 27 days annual leave (rising to 32 days after 5 years' service), plus bank holidays (depending on contract)
- Local Government Pension Scheme (depending on contract)
- Team Derby Rewards – retail and leisure discounts
- Tusker Car Benefit Scheme
- Cycle2Work Scheme & free cycle training
- Employee Assistance Programme, Wellbeing Calendar and Support
- Access to our Equality Employee Networks – LGBTQ+, Disabled Employee Network & Carers, our Black, Asian & Minority Ethnic Employee Support Network and Neurodiversity Network
- Support for colleagues who are carers
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
We are a fair and inclusive employer and welcome applications from people from all backgrounds. We recruit for diversity and value difference. As many of our roles can now be home‑based, we are able to offer more opportunities for people who need this facility. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader. If you are a disabled person, you have the choice to apply under our Guaranteed Interview Scheme so long as you demonstrate that you meet the essential requirements for the job. We feel it is essential that we recruit a talented workforce that is as diverse as the community we work for. Please let us know of any individual requirements or reasonable adjustments you may have during the application, interview, or onboarding process and we’ll do all we can to help. We strongly believe in social understanding of disability and for us it’s all about removing barriers to equality.
If you have any questions regarding this vacancy or are having difficulty applying, please contact our Recruitment Team on 01332 640844 (Relay UK - 18001 01332 640 844) or at recruitmentteam@derby.gov.uk.
Communications Officer employer: Derby City Council
As a Communications Officer with us, you'll thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment that champions professional growth and work-life balance. Our modern office, combined with flexible hybrid working options, allows you to excel while enjoying 27 days of annual leave, comprehensive wellbeing support, and access to diverse employee networks. Join us in making a meaningful impact within the community, where your creativity and communication skills will be valued and nurtured.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Communications Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the communications field. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy to reach out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best writing, media content, and campaigns. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate your storytelling prowess. Make sure to include any short-form videos you've produced too!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent media activities. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their communication goals. Tailor your responses to highlight your experience in PR and media relations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you that Communications Officer role!
We think you need these skills to ace Communications Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Communications Officer role. We want to see your unique flair, so don’t hold back on showcasing your storytelling abilities!
Show Off Your Writing Skills:Since excellent writing is key for this position, include samples of your best work. Whether it’s press releases or articles, we love seeing clear and engaging content that reflects your style and expertise.
Highlight Media Relations Experience:If you’ve got a background in PR and media relations, make it shine! Share specific examples of successful campaigns or media interactions you've managed, as this will really catch our eye.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Derby City Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the role of a Communications Officer. Familiarise yourself with the Council's recent campaigns and media coverage. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Writing Skills
Since excellent writing is key for this role, prepare a portfolio of your best work. Bring examples of press releases, articles, or any other relevant content you've created. Be ready to discuss your writing process and how you tailor your content for different audiences.
✨Prepare for Media Scenarios
Expect questions about handling media relations and crisis communication. Think of past experiences where you successfully managed media inquiries or developed a campaign. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
✨Engage with Enthusiasm
Your approach to stakeholder engagement should shine through during the interview. Be diplomatic and confident, showing your enthusiasm for the role. Prepare to discuss how you would engage with both internal teams and external media, highlighting your interpersonal skills.
