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- Tasks: Lead media engagement and strategise press stories for the London Assembly.
- Company: Join the London Assembly, a key player in scrutinising the Mayor's activities and representing Londoners.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, 30 days annual leave, and various financial perks like interest-free loans.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a real impact on London's future through effective communication.
- Qualifications: Strong research, communication skills, and experience in media handling are essential.
- Other info: We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and offer flexible working arrangements.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
London Assembly and secretariat
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. TheCommunications Team support service to promote the work of the Assembly through press office, social media, publicity and events.
The London Assembly Labour Group support the work of the 11 Labour Assembly Members in representing their constituents, scrutinising the work of the Mayor and championing the needs of Londoners.
We achieve this by delivering three main functions:
- Dedicated Research and Support Officers act as stakeholder engagement specialists for the Labour Group, dealing with casework, diary management and events.
- Senior Researchers provide policy support for the Labour Group across areas such as economy, environment, fire, health, housing policing, transport etc.
- Press Officers promote the work of the Labour Assembly Members through writing local and regional press releases, helping prepare our politicians for TV/ radio interviews and creating social media content.
About the role
In this role you will work as a part of our Press Office, working with our Group Manager and the Leader of the Labour Group to lead our media work. Task managing our Communications Officer and Digital Communications Officer, youll be in charge of media engagement to promote the work of the Assembly Members. That means strategising to consider our key messages, planning story ideas and overseeing the production of traditional and social media content.
This role is based at City Hall, in theRoyal Docks (Kamal Chunchie Way, London, E16 1ZE
What your day will look like
This is a busy role that is a combination of proactive work to generate exciting media stories and reactive work to respond to breaking news stories. Your day might look something like:
- Leading a short catch-up meeting at the start of the day with the Communications Officer and Digital Communications Officer to go through the press grid and plan stories for the day ahead
- Meeting with Assembly Members to discuss their upcoming press ideas and developing plans to deliver them
- Editing local newspaper articles to ensure they are fit for purpose
- Talking to journalists to pitch upcoming story ideas and responding to requests for interviews/quotes.
Skills, knowledge and experience
To be considered for the role you must meet the following essential criteria:
- Demonstrable research skills, to enable quick and effective grasp of information from a range of sources on a wide range of policy topics, and proven experience of policy briefing in a political/ public sector organisation
- Demonstrable verbal and written communication skills, including experience of writing a range of different styles of document for different audiences, often within very short timescales; experience of producing information specifically for media work and/or briefings for media interviews; the ability to use a range of software and media.
- Experience of working directly with influential, high profile people in a pressured environment and in dealing with confidential/sensitive issues and documents; the ability to work in a politically complex organisation and apply political awareness.
- Knowledge and understanding of media handling techniques, including strategies, including designing and delivering an effective communications plan for an elected politician.
- Ability to utilise the latest information and communication technologies in relation to media issues, including designing or commissioning leaflets, newsletters and other documents.
The GLA Competency Framework Guidelines further detailing each competency and the different level indicators can be found here:GLA Competency Framework
How to apply
If youwould 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. Please ensure you address how you demonstrate the essential criteria outlined above in the advert.
Please ensure your CV and Personal Statement have a maximum file size of 1.5MB each and upload your Personal Statement to the CV and Cover Letters section of the form, ensuring you address the technical requirements and competencies in your Personal Statement.
Word or PDF format preferred and do not include any photographs or images. Please ensure your CV and Personal Statement are saved with the job reference number as part of the naming convention (E.g., CV applicant name – 012345)
As part of GLAs 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.
If you have questions about the role
If you wish to talk to someone about the role, the hiring manager Karl Hyndman would be happy to speak to you. Please contact them at karl.hyndman[at]london.gov.uk.
If you have any questions about the recruitment process, contact theglaopdcrecruitment[at]tfl.gov.ukwho support the GLA with recruitment.
Assessment process
Once you have submitted an application, your details will be reviewed by a panel.
If shortlisted, youll be invited to an interview/assessment.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
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 underrepresented in our workforce.
We are committed to being an inclusive employer and we are happy to consider flexible working arrangements.We would welcome applications from candidates who are seeking part time work as this role is open to job share.
Please note we are a Disability Confident Employer so for candidates who wish to be considered under the scheme and meet the essential criteria, they will automatically be invited to interview. Please note, should you require any adjustments through the process, we will accommodate as much as possible. Please contact the recruitment team for further information if required.
Benefits
GLA staff are hybrid working up to 3 days a week in our offices and remotely depending on their role. As part of this, you will need to split your time between home working and coming into the office.
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.
Additional Information
Please note, all candidates will need to confirm that the information provided in this application form is true and correct. Should a candidate deliberately give false information, including the use of AI software, they understand that this would disqualify them from consideration.
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record (DBS) check but some roles may require additional security screening.
Find out which DBS check is right for your employee – GOV.UK
More Support
If you have a disability which makes submitting an online application form difficult, please contactresourcingteam[at]london.gov.uk.
Senior Press Officer in East London employer: Greater London Authority
Contact Detail:
Greater London Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Press Officer in East London
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the key issues currently facing London and the work of the London Assembly. This will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of communications and public relations, especially those who have experience working with political organisations. Attend relevant events or webinars to make connections that could provide insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on media trends and best practices in press relations. Understanding how to effectively engage with journalists and pitch stories will be crucial in this role, so consider following industry leaders on social media.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential interview questions by practising your responses to scenarios involving media crises or high-pressure situations. Being able to articulate your approach to handling such challenges will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Press Officer in East London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Press Officer position. Familiarise yourself with the London Assembly's work and the specific duties outlined in the job description.
Tailor Your Personal Statement: Your personal statement should directly address the essential criteria mentioned in the job description. Use specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your skills in media handling, communication, and policy briefing.
Format Your Documents Correctly: Ensure your CV and personal statement are in Word or PDF format, with a maximum file size of 1.5MB each. Follow the naming convention specified in the application instructions to avoid any issues during submission.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread your CV and personal statement. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are clear and concise. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Greater London Authority
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, research the London Assembly and its key members. Understand their priorities and recent activities to tailor your responses and demonstrate your knowledge of the organisation's work.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Senior Press Officer, strong verbal and written communication skills are essential. Prepare examples of your previous work, such as press releases or media strategies, to illustrate your ability to convey messages effectively.
✨Demonstrate Political Awareness
Be ready to discuss how you would navigate the political landscape in London. Highlight your experience working with high-profile individuals and managing sensitive information, showcasing your understanding of the complexities involved.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-time media situations. Think of examples where you've successfully managed a media crisis or developed a communications plan under pressure, and be prepared to discuss your thought process.
