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: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public policy and engage with diverse stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Strong media relations skills and a passion for local government.
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 in Huntingdon employer: Huntingdonshire District Council
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 in Huntingdon
✨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 shine and demonstrate how you can turn complex issues into clear messages, just like the role requires.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the council’s Corporate Plan and current public affairs trends. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to impactful engagement with stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Communications Executive - External Communications and Public Affairs in Huntingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Communications Executive. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we’re looking for.
Showcase Your Writing Skills: Since excellent writing is key for this role, include examples of your best work in your application. Whether it’s a press release, a blog post, or a report, let us see how you can turn complex ideas into clear messages.
Demonstrate Your Media Savvy: We want to know about your experience with media relations. Share specific examples of how you've handled media enquiries or developed public affairs strategies. This will help us see your confidence in action!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget 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’s super easy to do!
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.