At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage communications for Conservative Assembly Members and generate media coverage.
- Company: Join the London Assembly, a key player in London's governance.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, 30 days annual leave, and competitive salary.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with flexible arrangements and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact in London politics while honing your communication skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in media handling and video editing is essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The London Assembly scrutinises the Mayor's activities by questioning the Mayor about their decisions. The Assembly also investigates issues of importance to London. There are 25 Assembly Members, elected every four years at the same time as the Mayor. The Secretariat works for the Assembly to support its activities.
The Communications Team supports the work of the Assembly through press office, social media, publicity and events. We are a team of 12 officers who support the seven Conservative London Assembly Members in scrutinising the work of the Greater London Authority and Mayor of London.
This is a chance to take on a unique role as a Senior Communications Officer for the City Hall Conservative Members of the London Assembly, specialising in managing communications support. You will be responsible for generating digital and traditional media coverage for the assigned Assembly Member(s) in relation to the range of their GLA roles and functions and to respond to media enquiries effectively, accurately and quickly, ensuring that responses properly reflect the particular Member’s views. Organised, collaborative and diplomatic, you will bring to the role a talent for communicating and influencing, both in person and in writing. Experience of working in a similar role or sector is essential.
What your day will look like:
- Generating media coverage for the assigned Assembly Member(s) in relation to the range of their GLA roles and functions and responding to media enquiries effectively, accurately and quickly.
- Developing and implementing media-based tasks, including producing digital, video and newsletter content.
- Effectively monitoring relevant media activity and providing effective and timely advice to relevant Assembly Members.
- Developing and implementing comprehensive, proactive and effective communications strategies for assigned Assembly Members.
- Supporting Assembly Members with event coordination, speech and article drafting, website updating, etc.
Skills, Knowledge And Experience:
To be considered for the role you must meet the following essential criteria:
- Evidence of working successfully in a similar role in a high-profile organisation.
- Understanding and experience of media handling techniques, including strategies and delivering effective communications plans for elected politicians.
- Ability to utilise the latest information and communication technologies in relation to media issues.
- Experience of working with video editing software is essential.
Behavioural Competencies:
- Communicating and Influencing: Presenting information and arguments clearly and convincingly.
- Building and Managing Relationships: Developing rapport and working effectively with a diverse range of people.
- Organisational Awareness: Understanding and being sensitive to organisational dynamics.
- Responding to Pressure and Change: Being flexible and adapting positively to sustain performance.
- Planning and Organising: Thinking ahead, managing time, priorities and risk.
- Research and Analysis: Gathering intelligence from varied sources and drawing conclusions.
This role is based at City Hall, Royal Docks (Kamal Chunchie Way, London, E16 1ZE).
How to apply:
If you would like to apply for the role you will need to submit the following:
- Up to date CV
- Personal statement with a maximum of 1500 words addressing the essential criteria outlined above.
Please ensure your CV and Personal Statement have a maximum file size of 1.5MB each. Word or PDF format preferred and do not include any photographs or images.
As part of GLA’s continuing commitment to be an inclusive and equal opportunity employer, we will be removing personal identifiable information from CVs and Personal Statements that could cause discrimination.
Benefits:
GLA staff are hybrid working up to 3 days a week in our offices and remotely depending on their role. In addition to a good salary package, you will be paid every four weeks, providing frequent salary payments. We also offer an attractive range of benefits including 30 days’ annual leave, interest free season ticket loan, interest free bicycle loan and a career average pension scheme.
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 underrepresented in our workforce.
Senior Communications Officer employer: Greater London Authority
The Greater London Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong commitment to social impact, employees benefit from a comprehensive package that includes flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional growth. Working in the heart of London, you will be part of a team dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the community through participation, inclusion, and sustainability initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Communications Officer
✨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 key players. Understand their values and recent news, especially related to the Mayor's activities. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it's through mock interviews or casual chats with friends, being articulate and confident is key. Remember, as a Senior Communications Officer, you'll need to impress with both your verbal and written skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and contributing to the important work we do at the London Assembly.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Communications Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Personal Statement:Make sure your personal statement is tailored to the role of Senior Communications Officer. Highlight your experience in media handling and how it aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role is all about communication, don’t hold back! Use clear and engaging language in your CV and personal statement. We’re looking for someone who can communicate effectively, so let your writing reflect that talent.
Follow the Application Guidelines:Pay close attention to the application guidelines provided. Ensure your CV and personal statement are in the correct format and file size. We appreciate candidates who can follow instructions, as it shows attention to detail!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Greater London Authority
✨Know Your Assembly Members
Before the interview, make sure you research the specific Conservative Assembly Members you'll be supporting. Understand their roles, recent media coverage, and key issues they advocate for. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in their work.
✨Showcase Your Media Savvy
Since this role involves a lot of media handling, be prepared to discuss your experience with both digital and traditional media. Bring examples of past campaigns or communications strategies you've developed. Highlight your familiarity with video editing software and how you've used it to enhance communication efforts.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
The role requires strong planning and organising abilities. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed multiple projects or events simultaneously. Discuss any tools or methods you use to stay organised and ensure timely delivery of tasks.
✨Practice Your Communication Techniques
As a Senior Communications Officer, your ability to communicate clearly and persuasively is crucial. Prepare for potential questions about how you would handle media inquiries or develop communication strategies. Practise articulating your thoughts on current issues affecting London, as this will demonstrate your awareness and readiness for the role.
