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- Tasks: Lead communications and engagement strategies to promote human rights awareness in Scotland.
- Company: Join the Scottish Human Rights Commission, Scotland's independent watchdog for human rights.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and a competitive salary of £54,792-£65,800.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on human rights while shaping strategic communications in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Expertise in public affairs, corporate communications, and media is essential; policy experience is a plus.
- Other info: This is a full-time, fixed-term role with opportunities for secondment.
The predicted salary is between 46656 - 92160 £ per year.
Are you passionate about Human Rights?
Do you want to help improve the realisation of Human Rights for everyone in Scotland?
Do you have the skills, values, experience and expertise to help make that happen?
Are you interested in strengthening Scotland’s National Human Rights Institution?
If so, you could be just what we are looking for!
The Scottish Human Rights Commission (SHRC) is Scotland’s human rights watchdog.
We are an independent, expert body that works with and for the people of Scotland; we monitor, listen, and speak up for all our rights and respond when things go wrong. We are a public body created by statute, with a mandate to protect and promote the human rights of all people in Scotland.
The Commission is established as a National Human Rights Institution. As such we are part of a global network of bodies accredited by the United Nations to monitor state compliance with international and national human rights law and treaties. We are independent of government. It is the job of National Human Rights Institutions to use the rule of law to promote and protect the human rights of all of the people who live in any given country and assess the actions of the state on that basis. This is how the Scottish Human Rights Commission approaches its work.
Interim Head of Communications and Engagement
This key post is central to articulating the Commission’s role as Scotland’s human rights watchdog, promoting awareness and understanding of human rights, through the effective development and delivery of the Communication and Engagement strategy.
Reporting to the Executive Director, the role requires an individual with expert level skills across the communications mix of public affairs, corporate communications, media and digital, who can lead a team and empower a shared tone of voice and brand promotion across the organisation, and who can create and deliver strategic communications with purpose and impact. Experience of this gained in a related policy discipline would be welcome. You will lead and influence core messaging and its deployment across multiple channels to maximise exposure and awareness of the Commission’s purpose and outputs. A central feature of the role will be to coordinate activities and resources across the workforce, working closely with the Head of Legal and Policy to ensure effective communications programmes and plans are developed and implemented effectively across all of our core activities.
You will be responsible for developing and embedding the voice of the Commission aligned to its Strategic Plan 2024-28 and play a central role in shaping the Commissions strategic outputs.
As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will, provide leadership and management to the organisation as the Commission delivers its People and Culture plan in 2025. In addition, you will directly lead and manage the Commission’s Communications Team, ensuring they have effective management direction, support and development as required.
Full time (37 hours per week)
Fixed Term 1 Year – secondment opportunities are very welcome
Grade 5 (£54,792- £65,800)
Based in Edinburgh, Hybrid working available
Please click Apply now and submit your CV with a covering letter
Closing date for applications: 9.00am, Monday 20 January 2025
Interview date: W/C 24th February, tbc
Interim Head of Communications and Engagement employer: Scottish Human Rights Commission
Contact Detail:
Scottish Human Rights Commission Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Head of Communications and Engagement
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the Scottish Human Rights Commission's mission and recent initiatives. Understanding their current projects and challenges will help you articulate how your skills can contribute to their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the human rights sector, especially those involved with communications and engagement. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with individuals who can provide insights into the role and the organization.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading communication strategies, particularly in public affairs and corporate communications. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and projects that align with the Commission's objectives.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current human rights issues in Scotland and globally. Being knowledgeable about these topics will not only demonstrate your passion but also your ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Head of Communications and Engagement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Interim Head of Communications and Engagement. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, especially in communications, public affairs, and human rights.
Craft a Tailored Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses how your skills and experiences align with the role. Highlight your passion for human rights and provide examples of your previous work in communications or related fields.
Update Your CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and reflects relevant experience, particularly in communications and leadership roles. Emphasize any achievements that demonstrate your ability to promote awareness and understanding of human rights.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to submit your application through the specified channels on the StudySmarter website. Double-check that you have included all required documents and that they are formatted correctly before submitting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Human Rights Commission
✨Show Your Passion for Human Rights
Make sure to express your genuine passion for human rights during the interview. Share personal experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to this cause, as it aligns closely with the mission of the Scottish Human Rights Commission.
✨Demonstrate Communication Expertise
Prepare to discuss your experience in public affairs, corporate communications, and media strategies. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully led communication initiatives and engaged diverse audiences in previous roles.
✨Highlight Leadership Skills
As a candidate for a senior role, it's crucial to showcase your leadership abilities. Discuss your experience in managing teams, fostering collaboration, and empowering others to achieve shared goals, particularly in a communications context.
✨Align with Strategic Goals
Familiarize yourself with the Commission's Strategic Plan 2024-28 and be prepared to discuss how your vision for communications can support these objectives. Show that you understand the importance of aligning messaging with the organization's overall strategy.
