At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic communications and manage media relations for a local authority.
- Company: Join a dynamic local authority focused on effective communication and community engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working with 1-2 days in the office and a chance to shape impactful strategies.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative team that influences public perception and drives change.
- Qualifications: Experience in communications, ideally within local government, with strong writing and stakeholder skills.
- Other info: This is a 6-month interim role, perfect for those seeking impactful short-term opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Starfish Search is working with a local authority to recruit an Interim Senior Communications Officer. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in delivering a refreshed communications strategy and shaping how the organisation communicates both internally and externally.
The successful candidate will work closely with senior stakeholders across the council to embed a strategic, coordinated, and future-focused approach to communications.
Key Responsibilities- Deliver strategic communications plans, ensuring they are proactive, responsive, and aligned with organisational goals.
- Draft press releases and briefings, and manage media relations.
- Build strong relationships across internal teams.
- Provide communications input into events and projects.
- Help embed effective communications within the broader council strategy, ensuring it supports service delivery and long-term objectives.
- A confident communications professional who can operate at a senior level and deliver high-impact work in a fast-paced environment.
- An experienced relationship-builder, ideally with a background in local government or the wider public sector.
- Skilled in stakeholder engagement and change communications.
- Able to work independently and provide trusted support to senior leaders.
- A strong writer with excellent planning and media-handling skills.
This is a 6-month interim opportunity, requiring 1–2 days per week in the office in the South East.
Interim Senior Communications Officer employer: LinkedIn
Contact Detail:
LinkedIn Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Senior Communications Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local authority's current communications strategy and recent initiatives. This will help you demonstrate your understanding of their goals and how you can contribute to enhancing their communications.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the local government sector, especially those involved in communications. Attend relevant events or webinars to build connections that could provide insights into the role and the organisation's culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of your past work that showcase your ability to deliver strategic communications plans and manage media relations. Be ready to discuss these during any informal conversations or interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends in public sector communications. Being knowledgeable about best practices and innovative approaches will position you as a forward-thinking candidate who can bring fresh ideas to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Senior Communications Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and skills required for the Interim Senior Communications Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV showcases your relevant experience in communications, particularly in local government or the public sector. Highlight specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to deliver strategic communications plans and manage media relations.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and explain how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Use examples to illustrate your skills in stakeholder engagement and change communications, as well as your ability to work independently.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a communications role.
How to prepare for a job interview at LinkedIn
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Be prepared to discuss how you would develop and implement strategic communications plans. Highlight your experience in aligning communications with organisational goals, and provide examples of past successes.
✨Demonstrate Relationship-Building Skills
Since the role requires strong relationships across internal teams, come ready with examples of how you've successfully built and maintained relationships with stakeholders in previous roles, particularly in local government or public sector settings.
✨Prepare for Media Relations Questions
Expect questions about your experience with drafting press releases and managing media relations. Be ready to discuss specific instances where your communication skills made a significant impact on media coverage or public perception.
✨Exhibit Your Writing Skills
As a strong writer is essential for this role, consider bringing samples of your work, such as press releases or briefings. This will not only demonstrate your writing ability but also give you a chance to discuss your thought process behind each piece.