At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead communication strategies on cyber threats and manage media enquiries.
- Company: Join the National Cyber Security Centre, a key player in UK cybersecurity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for travel, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Fast-paced role with opportunities for collaboration and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while developing your communication skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in communications or journalism with strong writing and project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 55758 - 55758 £ per year.
GCHQ’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) invites applications for a Senior Communications Officer to join its external communications team. In this role you will work across the press office and social media functions to deliver proactive communications, manage emerging stories and media enquiries, craft press releases, brief journalists on breaking incidents, and support the public conversation on cyber‑security issues.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the planning and delivery of communication strategies on high‑profile cyber threats, including protection of the UK’s critical national infrastructure.
- Collaborate with internal and Whitehall stakeholders to maximise effectiveness and manage risk.
- Produce compelling press releases, reactive statements, and assets for social media channels.
- Brief journalists on breaking news and high‑profile incidents during press duty rota periods.
- Analyse media coverage, identify communication opportunities and risks, and provide political and public‑relations judgement.
- Travel to UK sites as required and occasional international travel.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Proven experience in government communications, journalism, or public relations with a record of effective written work.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
- Experience producing social media content that supports organisational and brand objectives.
- Organisation and project‑management skills, managing multiple projects to tight deadlines.
- Calm under pressure and able to maintain high standards in a fast‑paced environment.
- Political awareness and sound judgement in identifying communication opportunities and risks.
Competencies (Level 3)
- Seeing the Big Picture – Demonstrates understanding of broad organisational context.
- Communicating and Influencing – Persuasive communication that resonates with diverse audiences.
- Working Collaboratively – Builds effective working relationships across teams.
- Making Effective Decisions – Decides wisely under pressure with insight into outcomes.
Benefits
Starter salary £55,758 per annum (includes £2,758 concessionary).
NCSC Senior Communications Officer in London employer: GCHQ Careers
Joining GCHQ’s National Cyber Security Centre as a Senior Communications Officer offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the UK's cyber security landscape while working in a dynamic and supportive environment. With a focus on employee growth, you will benefit from professional development opportunities and a collaborative work culture that values innovation and teamwork. Located in the heart of the UK, this role not only provides a competitive salary but also the chance to engage with high-profile issues that impact national security, making your work both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land NCSC Senior Communications Officer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those already working at NCSC or similar organisations. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on what they’re really looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio of your best work, including press releases and social media content. When you get the chance to chat with recruiters or during interviews, share these examples to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current cyber-security issues. Being knowledgeable about recent events will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and show that you’re genuinely interested in the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to 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 the team at NCSC.
We think you need these skills to ace NCSC Senior Communications Officer in 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 Senior Communications Officer. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Writing Skills:Since this role is all about communication, include examples of your best written work. Whether it's press releases or social media content, we want to see how you can craft compelling messages.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and get straight to the point. This will help us see your communication skills in action!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly and gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at GCHQ Careers
✨Know Your Cyber Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and threats in cyber security. Being able to discuss current issues confidently will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you understand the landscape you'll be working in.
✨Craft Your Communication Examples
Prepare specific examples of your past work in communications, especially those that involved high-pressure situations or complex topics. Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to produce compelling press releases and manage media enquiries effectively.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Be ready to talk about times when you've worked with different teams or stakeholders. Highlight how you built relationships and collaborated to achieve a common goal, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
During the interview, they might throw some tricky questions your way to see how you handle pressure. Practice staying composed and think through your responses carefully, showing that you can maintain high standards even in a fast-paced environment.
