At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic communications team to promote skills and employment initiatives across London.
- Company: Join the Greater London Authority, dedicated to building a better London for everyone.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days of annual leave, interest-free loans, and a solid pension scheme.
- Other info: Hybrid working available, with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in Londoners' lives by enhancing their access to skills and employment.
- Qualifications: Experience in developing communications strategies and managing teams is essential.
The predicted salary is between 56655 - 56655 £ per year.
Salary: £56,655 per annum
Grade: 10
Contract type: Permanent
Reference: PCO1
Interview date: Week commencing 8 August 2022
Application closing date: Sunday 24 July 2022 at 23:59 GMT
We have an exciting opportunity to lead a new embedded communications team within the GLA’s Skills and Employment Unit. The GLA’s Skills and Employment Unit fulfils the Mayor’s commitment to support Londoners into good work and to lead happier, healthier lives – building a better London for everyone. The Skills and Employment Unit is responsible for over £380m of skills and employment funding each year, supporting half a million Londoners to access training and support since 2019. This includes the Adult Education Budget, European Social Fund, UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Mayor’s Academies Programme, No Wrong Door, Skills Capital Programmes, Multiply and Skills Bootcamps for Londoners, and the new flagship marketing initiative, the Mayor’s Jobs and Skills Campaign.
We are looking for a Principal Communications Officer to oversee the development and delivery of a communications strategy for the Skills and Employment Unit, promote the skills and employment programmes delivered by the Mayor and key partners, and increase Londoners’ awareness of skills provision and participation in adult learning.
Responsibilities
- Line‑manage two Senior Communications Officers.
- Oversee the Unit’s external communications portfolio, including announcements, set‑piece moments, marketing, recovery communications, stakeholder and provider communications, flagship events and initiatives, reactive communications, Jobs and Skills website pages, and social media engagement.
- Improve external communications skills and understanding across the Unit.
These posts will be in the Unit’s Strategy, Policy and Relationships team, which sets the strategic direction for the Mayor’s skills and employment policy and programmes, oversees stakeholder and partner relationships, and delivers the Mayor’s manifesto commitments. Work closely with the GLA’s press, marketing, digital and external relations teams, the Mayor’s Office and Deputy Mayors’ Offices, and other GLA and partner teams to deliver communication objectives.
Qualifications
- Demonstrable experience developing and delivering communications strategies.
- Strong track record of overseeing a range of external communications activities.
- Proven people and resource management skills.
- Preferred: strong understanding of London’s skills and employment landscape.
This job is ‘politically restricted’ under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. The role will be based at the London Fire Brigade’s Head Office (Union Street SE1 0LL). Staff are hybrid working up to 3 days a week in the offices and remotely, depending on the role.
Benefits
- 30 days’ annual leave.
- Interest free season ticket loan.
- Interest free bicycle loan.
- Career average pension scheme.
EEO Statement
London’s diversity is its biggest asset and we strive to ensure our workforce reflects London's diversity at all levels. We welcome applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, gender identity, gender expression, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. We particularly encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority ethnic candidates and disabled candidates who are currently under‑represented in our workforce. We are committed to being an inclusive employer and are happy to consider flexible working arrangements, including part‑time work and job sharing.
Principal Communications Officer - Mayor of London employer: Diversifying Group
The Greater London Authority (GLA) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that champions diversity and inclusion while making a tangible impact on the lives of Londoners. As a Principal Communications Officer, you will benefit from a generous 30 days of annual leave, flexible hybrid working arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth within a supportive team dedicated to enhancing skills and employment across the capital. Join us in shaping a better London and enjoy the unique advantage of working at the heart of the city’s governance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Communications Officer - Mayor of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Understand the Mayor's Skills and Employment Unit and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence. Focus on articulating your achievements and how they relate to the role of Principal Communications Officer.
✨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!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Communications Officer - Mayor of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Principal Communications Officer. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of your successes in developing and delivering communications strategies. We want to see how you've made an impact in previous roles!
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity! Make your application easy to read by using bullet points and short paragraphs. This helps us quickly grasp your qualifications and makes a great first impression.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, the best way to apply is through our website. It ensures your application gets to the right place and allows us to process it efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Diversifying Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the GLA’s Skills and Employment Unit and its initiatives. Familiarise yourself with the various programmes like the Adult Education Budget and the Mayor’s Jobs and Skills Campaign. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in developing and delivering communications strategies. Have specific examples ready that highlight your track record in overseeing external communications activities, as this is crucial for the Principal Communications Officer role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since you’ll be line-managing two Senior Communications Officers, be ready to talk about your people management skills. Share examples of how you’ve successfully led teams, improved communication skills, or managed resources effectively in past roles.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t forget to engage with your interviewers! Ask insightful questions about the team dynamics, the challenges they face, and how you can contribute to their goals. This shows that you’re not just interested in the job, but also in being a part of their mission to support Londoners.
