At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and manage engaging internal communications across various platforms.
- Company: Join a dynamic team within the HMPPS, focused on public safety and reducing re-offending.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working options, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for learning and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in communication strategies that impact public safety.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and proficiency in MS Word and Excel required.
The predicted salary is between 33275 - 33275 £ per year.
Working within the Business Hub Function, reporting to the Business Hub Manager, the Communications Officer ensures that all content is published on time and of good quality. The role is responsible for all internal communications and for liaising with functions to produce innovative communication solutions that support HMPPS’ strategic objectives of protecting the public and reducing re‑offending.
Responsibilities
- Publishing: Act as publisher for intranet, other internal message boards, in‑cell TVs and internal newsletters. Upload content to the intranet as part of the Business Hub. Ensure the quality of links, images and metadata through regular monitoring and issue resolution. Ensure all content is consistent with online guidelines. Develop working knowledge of all online content management systems used in HMPPS.
- Channel and Content Management: Collate and distribute messages from the Senior Management Team. Set templates and support the Business Hub in delivering standard newsletters such as NPS and CRC News, including writing and proofing.
- Generic Production: Provide basic design, typesetting and proofing services. Support production of communications products and materials as required. Assist in product development on behalf of Functional Heads and support the Business Hub Manager. Support delivery of multimedia projects from concept to final delivery (e.g. community communications and portals, social media). Ensure adherence to government and industry good‑practice online guidelines across all communications. Use systems to evaluate and maximise prison online coverage, including monitoring external websites and reporting issues to the planning, research and evaluation manager. Maintain own professional knowledge and stay abreast of emerging trends.
- Promote HMPPS behaviours, including diversity, decency, safety and the reduction of re‑offending agendas. Build a cohesive communications platform by liaising with Functional Heads and central teams, keeping distribution lists up to date and ensuring consistent messaging across the establishment. Represent the establishment externally and support its brand development.
Behaviours
- Changing and Improving
- Communicating and Influencing
- Working Together
- Managing a Quality Service
- Making Effective Decisions
Technical Requirements
- Complete specific training in the administrative specialism upon taking up the post. When transferring to a Young Persons establishment, undertake an assessment to demonstrate suitability to work with young people.
Ability
- Deal effectively and assertively with staff at all levels.
- Use MS Word and MS Excel proficiently.
- Collate and analyse information.
Person Specification
- Behaviours: Communicating and Influencing, Working Together, Managing a Quality Service, Changing and Improving. All activities described above shall be performed with confidence in the medium of English. Where specified in Wales, Welsh may also be required.
- Basic knowledge of HMPPS policies and procedures and the ability to learn new systems quickly.
Benefits
- Salary of £33,275 per annum.
- HM Prison & Probation Service contribution to a Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.
- Access to learning and development programmes.
- Flexible working options to support work‑life balance.
- Inclusive culture encouraging diversity and equality.
- Annual leave, public holidays and season ticket advance.
- Additional employer contributions and benefits as per civil service terms and conditions.
Equal Employment Opportunity
- Open to UK nationals and nationals of the Republic of Ireland.
- Open to nationals of Commonwealth countries with the right to work in the UK.
- Open to nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and their settled or pre‑settled status family members.
- Open to individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for the EUSS on or before 31 December 2020.
- Open to Turkish nationals and certain family members with accrued civil service working rights.
Communications Officer employer: HM Prison and Probation Service
As a Communications Officer within the Business Hub Function at HMPPS, you will thrive in an inclusive culture that values diversity and equality while contributing to meaningful work aimed at protecting the public and reducing re-offending. With a competitive salary, access to a Civil Service pension scheme, and flexible working options, this role offers excellent employee growth opportunities and a supportive environment for professional development. Join us in making a difference while enjoying a balanced work-life experience.
Contact Details:
HM Prison and Probation Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Communications Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those already working at HMPPS. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in action! If you’ve got a portfolio of your previous communications work, bring it along to interviews. It’s a great way to demonstrate your experience and creativity, especially for a role like Communications Officer.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about how you can showcase your ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate your points.
✨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, you’ll find all the latest opportunities there, so keep checking back!
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 how you can contribute to our mission of protecting the public and reducing re-offending.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role is all about effective communication, don’t hold back! Use clear and concise language in your application, and provide examples of how you've successfully communicated in previous roles. We love a good story!
Proofread, Proofread, Proofread!:Before hitting that submit button, give your application a thorough read. Typos and errors can distract from your message, so let’s make sure everything is polished and professional. We’re all about quality here at StudySmarter!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. Let’s get you on board!
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Prison and Probation Service
✨Know Your Content
Familiarise yourself with the types of content you'll be managing, like newsletters and intranet posts. Understand the importance of quality and consistency in communications, as this role is all about ensuring messages are clear and effective.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively. Think of examples where you've influenced or collaborated with others, as these behaviours are key for the role. Be ready to discuss how you can support the strategic objectives of HMPPS.
✨Be Tech-Savvy
Brush up on your knowledge of content management systems and tools like MS Word and Excel. Being able to discuss your technical skills confidently will show that you're ready to hit the ground running in this role.
✨Stay Current and Relevant
Keep yourself updated on emerging trends in communications and any relevant HMPPS policies. Showing that you’re proactive about learning will impress the interviewers and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
