Communications Executive - External Communications and Public Affairs
Communications Executive - External Communications and Public Affairs

Communications Executive - External Communications and Public Affairs

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead strategic communications and public affairs campaigns for the council.
  • Company: Join a forward-thinking council committed to community engagement.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexitime, competitive pay, and a supportive work-life balance.
  • Other info: Be part of an inclusive team that values diversity and offers career growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in public policy and engage with diverse stakeholders.
  • Qualifications: Strong media relations skills and a knack for clear communication.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

As part of our Communications Team, you’ll lead the development and delivery of strategic communications and public affairs campaigns aligned to the council’s Corporate Plan. Using insight, data and audience understanding, you’ll shape inclusive, relevant and impactful engagement with residents, stakeholders, partners and decision makers.

You’ll be a trusted advisor, a confident media operator and a skilled content creator - equally comfortable handling breaking media enquiries, developing long term public affairs strategies or turning complex policy into clear, compelling messages. You’ll attend key council meetings and civic events, support national award submissions, help maintain stakeholder databases and collaborate flexibly across the Communications Team to deliver wider corporate communications activity. The role includes participation in an on call rota (with additional payment).

You’ll bring:

  • Strong experience or aptitude in media relations, strategic communications or public affairs
  • Excellent writing skills and the ability to explain complex, sensitive issues clearly
  • Confidence working with senior officers, councillors and external stakeholders
  • Sound judgement in politically sensitive and fast moving situations
  • A proactive, curious mindset and a genuine interest in public policy and local government.

An offer of employment is conditional upon having the right to work in the UK. HDC does not hold a Sponsorship Licence and is unable to provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) or take over sponsorship for any role. Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our recruitment and we are committed to creating an inclusive working environment, where diversity is valued and there is equality of opportunity. We therefore welcome applications from all sections of the community and we offer a range of benefits, including flexitime, to encourage a work-life balance.

Communications Executive - External Communications and Public Affairs employer: Huntingdonshire District Council

As a leading council, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values diversity, inclusion, and employee growth. Our Communications Executive role offers a dynamic work environment where you can engage with key stakeholders and make a real impact in the community, all while enjoying benefits like flexitime to support your work-life balance. Join us to be part of a collaborative team that fosters professional development and encourages innovative thinking in public affairs.
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Contact Detail:

Huntingdonshire District Council Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Communications Executive - External Communications and Public Affairs

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out to professionals for a chat. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or a personal website showcasing your best work in communications and public affairs. This is your chance to demonstrate your writing prowess and strategic thinking, so make it shine!

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by researching the council’s recent initiatives and challenges. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to show them that you’re not just a fit for the role, but a perfect match for their team!

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t miss out on the chance to stand out!

We think you need these skills to ace Communications Executive - External Communications and Public Affairs

Media Relations
Strategic Communications
Public Affairs
Writing Skills
Content Creation
Stakeholder Engagement
Political Sensitivity
Judgement in Fast Moving Situations
Public Policy Understanding
Local Government Knowledge
Data Insight Utilisation
Audience Understanding
Proactive Mindset
Collaboration Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. Tailor your application to resonate with the council's values and the specific needs of the Communications Team. This shows us that you’re not just sending a generic application!

Showcase Your Skills: Highlight your experience in media relations and strategic communications. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to handle complex issues and create clear messages. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!

Be Clear and Concise: When it comes to writing, clarity is key! Make sure your application is easy to read and straight to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and remember, we appreciate a well-structured application that gets to the heart of your message.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved!

How to prepare for a job interview at Huntingdonshire District Council

✨Know Your Audience

Before the interview, research the council's Corporate Plan and understand their key stakeholders. This will help you tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their strategic communications goals.

✨Showcase Your Writing Skills

Prepare a portfolio of your best writing samples that demonstrate your ability to simplify complex issues. Be ready to discuss how you've effectively communicated sensitive topics in the past, as this is crucial for the role.

✨Be Prepared for Media Scenarios

Anticipate questions about handling media enquiries and public affairs strategies. Think of specific examples where you've successfully navigated fast-moving situations or provided sound judgement in politically sensitive contexts.

✨Demonstrate Your Curiosity

Express your genuine interest in public policy and local government during the interview. Share insights or recent developments you've followed, and ask thoughtful questions about the council's current initiatives to show your proactive mindset.

Communications Executive - External Communications and Public Affairs
Huntingdonshire District Council

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