At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a visually impaired team member in media tasks and communications.
- Company: Join Staffordshire County Council's award-winning Communications Team.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment, flexible hours, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Fixed-term role until March 2028 with potential for diverse experiences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while kickstarting your career in communications.
- Qualifications: Interest in communications, content creation skills, and attention to detail.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 22000 £ per year.
Staffordshire County Council’s award-winning Communications Team is responsible for developing and implementing council-wide internal and external communications based on the annual communications plan. Our work promotes the vast, diverse work of the county council that has a daily impact on the lives of Staffordshire’s 850,000 residents.
An enthusiastic media support assistant is needed to support one of our team members in our busy press team who is visually impaired. No two days are ever the same, so we need someone who is flexible and adaptable to change. It is a support/admin role, but would be ideally suited to someone with an interest in communications or is looking to start a career in that field. The ideal candidate would be able to take photos and video. The role is 32 hours per week, with specific working days to be agreed. Note that holidays must generally be taken at the same time as the team member wherever possible. This role is fixed-term until March 2028.
Main Responsibilities
- You will assist a visually impaired team member with:
- Proof reading press releases and social media copy
- Helping with press interviews
- Diary management and admin tasks such as filling in timesheets and booking holidays
- Basic reporting on media coverage
- Video, photography and editing skills
The Ideal Candidate
- You'll have an interest in communications or a career in that field, or be a recent graduate looking for their first job in communications or the public sector.
- The minimum essential criteria that will be assessed for the purposes of shortlisting will be:
- Familiar and competent with creating content (photos and video) and posting on social media channels
- Be willing to work in Stafford with occasional travel around the county where necessary, so access to a car is essential.
- Good attention to detail including proofreading experience
- Experience working with a variety of different stakeholders
Interviews will be held week commencing 24 August. Please note: we may close this advert early if there is a considerable volume of applications.
About Staffordshire County Council
We are no ordinary county council: Our Values: The core of who we are as an organisation. Just like we all have personal values that shape our thoughts and behaviour, organisational values drive how we think and act collectively. Our values were created and shaped by colleague feedback and national best practice and they sit at the heart of People Strategy: We have a real sense of community spirit that brings our people together. This feeling of belonging means we are all connected to what we do and take pride in the difference we make every day for Staffordshire people. We are ambitious and our sights are set firmly on a better future. We look forward and race ahead - that goes for your career too.
Our benefits: We recognise that it is our employees that are central to everything we do. We aim to create a supportive working environment where employees can achieve their full potential and achieve a healthy work-life balance. In addition to your salary, as a member of staff, you will have access to our rewards and benefits.
Our recruitment process: As an Authority we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Staffordshire County Council is an equal opportunities organisation and Disability Confident employer. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities. As part of our commitment as a Disability Confident employer, a Gold Award Armed Forces employer and our commitment to supporting care leavers - we offer a guaranteed interview as long as your application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
Media Support Assistant in Stafford employer: WMJobs
West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is an exceptional employer that champions a collaborative and inclusive work culture, offering employees the chance to make a tangible impact in the public sector. With a strong focus on professional development and growth opportunities, WMCA supports its staff in navigating the complexities of local governance while fostering a dynamic environment that values innovation and adaptability. Located in the heart of the West Midlands, employees benefit from a vibrant community and access to a range of resources aimed at enhancing their career journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Media Support Assistant in Stafford
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Some tips for your application 🫡
Get Your Story Straight:In public relations, storytelling is everything! Make sure your CV highlights your experience in crafting compelling narratives and managing media relations. Share specific examples of campaigns you've worked on, and don’t forget to include any press coverage you've generated—it's impressive proof of your skills!
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How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
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