Communications Officer

Communications Officer

Stirling Full-Time 28800 - 43200 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
U

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our award-winning team to craft compelling communications and manage media relations.
  • Company: Be part of the University of Stirling, recognized for excellence in teaching and research.
  • Benefits: Enjoy agile working options and a collaborative environment with diverse colleagues.
  • Why this job: Make an impact through strategic communication while enhancing your skills in a dynamic setting.
  • Qualifications: Degree level education and experience in Communications, PR, or Journalism required.
  • Other info: Applications close on March 23, 2025; interviews on April 3, 2025.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.

The Post

The post sits within the Communications, Marketing and Recruitment Directorate, which provides a wide range of services to internal and external stakeholders and works closely with the University’s senior management team. We were recently named Outstanding Marketing/Communications Team of the Year at the Times Higher Education Awards.

The award-winning team ensures the University’s strategic messages are effectively conveyed to, and understood by, our stakeholders across all communications platforms.

The Communications Officer will work as part of the professional service offered by the Directorate’s Communications team, including public affairs, in support of the strategic communication requirements of the University. The successful candidate will focus, in particular, on media relations, research communications, teaching and learning success stories, social media, speech writing, reputation management and contribute to a wide range of corporate communications, including support for internal communications.

The post-holder will also work closely with colleagues from the Marketing and Digital teams, to develop and deliver integrated marketing-communications projects which enhance the University’s national and international profile and reputation for excellence in teaching and research.

The post-holder will report to the Communications Manager and will work closely with the Head of Communications.

The role requires someone who has excellent communication skills and a flair for writing; equally adept at pitching to journalists as preparing strategic briefings or speeches for senior officers. The post should attract a confident, tenacious self-starter who thrives on building strong internal and external relationships and networks.

This role will be based at the University of Stirling Campus but agile working is supported.

Please note that after the closing date, this job advert will no longer be available on the University of Stirling website; therefore, please keep a copy for your records.

Unfortunately, if you are not selected to attend an interview for this post, we are unable to provide individual feedback.

Please note, previous applicants need not apply.

Description of Duties

  • Research, write and edit media releases, and secure placement of news stories in local, national and international media
  • Research, write, edit and proof-read copy for a wide range of communications platforms, including written publications, internal communications channels, social media and the website
  • Work closely with academics to identify opportunities to promote their research and enhance the profile of the University at a national and international level
  • Contribute to the successful membership of The Conversation by identifying and organising publishing opportunities for academics
  • Provide a speech-writing service to senior University officers, including the Principal and Vice-Chancellor, and the Chief Operating Officer and University Secretary
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of integrated marketing-communications projects and campaigns with colleagues across Service Directorates and Faculties
  • Represent the Directorate on committees and working groups
  • Handle incoming media enquiries and facilitate requests for interview, expert comment, filming/photography – providing media training guidance and support when required
  • Prepare briefings for senior University officials
  • Monitor and screen media outlets and compile daily summary of media coverage
  • Analyse data from the team’s media monitoring database, to compile quarterly media coverage reports
  • Provide communications planning and support for key University events, including Graduation and student recruitment days
  • Write, edit and post content for the University’s website, social media channels and internal pages, using content management systems including Terminalfour and Brandwatch
  • Work as part of the out-of-hours rota, responding to media enquiries at evenings and weekends
  • Work as part of the team responsible for emergency response and crisis communications
  • Adopt a flexible approach to work and be prepared to work non-standard hours, including evenings and weekends
  • Encourage effective communications practice across the University
  • Participate in the general activities of the Communications team as required and specified by the Communications Manager, Head of Communications, and Executive Director of Communications, Marketing and Recruitment

Essential Criteria

  • Educated to Degree level or equivalent (where no formal qualifications are held, additional, relevant experience is required)
  • Extensive recent experience working in Communications, PR or Journalism
  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills
  • Excellent news sense and ability to identify and capitalise on media relations opportunities
  • Experience of interpreting complex, detailed information and translating it into language that is easily understood by a lay audience
  • Experience of dealing with broadcast, print, digital and photographic journalists
  • Experience of media monitoring and evaluation
  • Proven track record of writing engaging, accurate and impactful copy
  • Ability to oversee the production of video news stories, including storyboarding, script-writing, filming, editing and art direction
  • Proven track record, and demonstrable evidence, of working on effective, integrated communications campaigns
  • Ability to work with and engage effectively with a range of different stakeholders
  • Knowledge and experience of using social media channels in a strategic capacity and to create content using design tools such as Canva
  • Be a highly-motivated, creative and flexible individual
  • Excellent planning and organisational skills
  • Ability to work under pressure and prioritise multiple tasks
  • Well-developed IT skills
  • Ability to work strategically and use own initiative
  • Be a collaborative team member and supportive colleague

Desirable Criteria

  • Postgraduate qualification in Communications, PR or Journalism
  • Membership of a professional body such as CIPR
  • Knowledge of the UK Higher Education sector
  • Experience in speech writing
  • Experience of using content management systems such as Terminalfour, Brandwatch
  • Experience in public affairs

Additional Information

Full time

Open ended

The closing date for applications is midnight on Sunday 23 March 2025.

Interviews are expected to take place on Thursday 03 April 2025.

There is an expectation that work will be undertaken in the UK.

For the purposes of sponsorship, this role may be eligible for sponsorship depending on candidate circumstances under SOC code 2493.

The University of Stirling recognises that a diverse workforce benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers and welcome applications from those who would contribute to further diversification of our staff and ensure that equality, diversity and inclusion is woven into the substance of the role. We strongly encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds including gender, identity, race, age, class, and ethnicity.

For a full description of duties and essential/desirable criteria please click the apply button, which will take you directly to the University Website.

Communications Officer employer: University of Stirling

The University of Stirling is an exceptional employer, recognized for its award-winning Communications team that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Employees benefit from agile working arrangements, professional development opportunities, and the chance to contribute to impactful communication strategies that enhance the university's national and international profile. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, the University actively supports a vibrant workplace where every voice is valued.
U

Contact Detail:

University of Stirling Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Communications Officer

Tip Number 1

Familiarize yourself with the University of Stirling's recent communications and marketing campaigns. Understanding their strategic messaging will help you align your approach and demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.

Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees in the Communications team. They can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable for tailoring your application and interview responses.

Tip Number 3

Showcase your media relations experience by preparing examples of successful campaigns or stories you've pitched. Be ready to discuss how you identified opportunities and the impact of your work on previous organizations.

Tip Number 4

Stay updated on current trends in higher education communications and social media strategies. Being able to discuss these trends and how they could apply to the University of Stirling will set you apart as a candidate.

We think you need these skills to ace Communications Officer

Excellent Verbal and Written Communication Skills
Media Relations Expertise
Research and Copywriting Skills
Experience in Speech Writing
Ability to Translate Complex Information
Proven Track Record in Integrated Communications Campaigns
Social Media Strategy and Content Creation
Media Monitoring and Evaluation
Strong Planning and Organizational Skills
Ability to Work Under Pressure
Collaboration and Teamwork
IT Proficiency
Creativity and Flexibility
Stakeholder Engagement

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Communications Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, such as media relations, speech writing, and social media management.

Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience in communications, PR, or journalism. Emphasize your writing skills and any previous work that aligns with the duties outlined in the job description.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for communications and your understanding of the University’s mission. Mention specific examples of your past work that demonstrate your ability to excel in this role.

Showcase Your Writing Skills: Since excellent writing is crucial for this position, consider including samples of your writing or links to published work. This could be articles, press releases, or social media content that reflects your ability to communicate effectively.

How to prepare for a job interview at University of Stirling

Showcase Your Writing Skills

As a Communications Officer, your writing ability is crucial. Prepare samples of your previous work, such as press releases or social media posts, to demonstrate your flair for writing and your capacity to convey complex information clearly.

Understand the University’s Strategic Goals

Familiarize yourself with the University of Stirling's mission and recent achievements, especially in communications and marketing. This knowledge will help you align your responses with their strategic objectives during the interview.

Prepare for Media Relations Questions

Expect questions about your experience with media relations. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you've successfully pitched stories or handled media inquiries, showcasing your news sense and ability to build relationships with journalists.

Demonstrate Your Collaborative Spirit

The role requires working closely with various teams. Prepare examples of how you've effectively collaborated with colleagues from different departments or disciplines to achieve common goals, highlighting your teamwork and communication skills.

Communications Officer
University of Stirling
U
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