At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead media relations and deliver impactful communications campaigns for the council.
- Company: Join Wyre Council, a forward-thinking organisation focused on community engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a collaborative and inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your communication skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in communications or marketing, strong media relations, and excellent writing skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
Wyre Council is seeking an experienced and creative Senior Communications Officer to join our Communications and Visitor Economy Service. This is a high-profile opportunity to lead the council’s media relations and deliver impactful communications and marketing campaigns that protect and enhance our reputation while supporting key council priorities.
About the Role
You will be responsible for leading proactive and reactive engagement with local and national media and delivering creative, outcome-focused campaigns that engage our communities and influence behaviour. You will ensure council communications are strategic, joined-up and aligned to the Council’s Business Plan, with a strong digital-first approach. The role includes line management of the Communications Officer and Web, Intranet and Internal Communications Officer. You will deputise for the Communications and Visitor Economy Manager and provide expert communications advice to senior officers and Elected Members, including on sensitive, confidential and emergency issues. You will also lead on elections communications and support emergency response activity.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage all aspects of media relations and reputation management
- Deliver creative communications, marketing and behaviour-change campaigns
- Provide expert communications advice to senior officers and Elected Members
- Ensure joined-up messaging across media, digital, web, social and print channels
- Oversee e-newsletters and internal communications activity
- Line manage and develop the corporate communications team
- Lead on elections communications and emergency responses
- Support corporate priorities including climate change and business support initiatives
About You
You will be an excellent communicator with the ability to write clearly, concisely and creatively. You will have strong experience dealing with the media and delivering effective communications or marketing campaigns, ideally within the public sector. You will be confident working with senior stakeholders and Elected Members, have strong digital skills and be able to manage competing priorities to tight deadlines. Line management experience is desirable.
Essential Requirements
- Experience of working in a communications or marketing role
- Strong media relations and reputation management experience
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong digital and IT skills across multiple platforms
- Ability to work flexibly, including occasional evening and weekend work
- Full driving licence and access to a vehicle
What’s in it for you
- Flexible working arrangements
- Free parking on site
- Generous annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays
- Local Government Pension Scheme with employer contributions
- Learning, development and professional growth opportunities
- Casual car user allowance (own transport required)
- Opportunity to contribute to climate change and community priorities
Wyre Council is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and to creating a professional, innovative, collaborative and customer-focused working environment.
Senior Communications Officer employer: Wyre Borough Council
Wyre Council is an exceptional employer that values creativity and innovation, offering a supportive work culture where employees can thrive. With flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional growth, you will be empowered to make a meaningful impact in the community while contributing to important initiatives like climate change. Join us in a role that not only enhances your career but also allows you to engage with local and national media in a vibrant and collaborative environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Communications Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the communications field, attend local events, and engage with professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Wyre Council and its recent campaigns. We want you to show off your knowledge and passion for their work. Tailor your responses to highlight how your skills align with their goals, especially around media relations and community engagement.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows professionalism and keeps you fresh in their minds. We believe this small gesture can make a big difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we often have exclusive opportunities listed there that you won’t find anywhere else. Let’s get you one step closer to that Senior Communications Officer role!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Communications Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Communications Officer role. Highlight your experience in media relations and any creative campaigns you've led, as this will show us you're a perfect fit for what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Writing Skills:Since excellent written communication is key for this role, include examples of your writing in your application. Whether it's press releases, marketing content, or social media posts, let us see your flair for clear and engaging communication.
Demonstrate Your Digital Savvy:We’re keen on a strong digital-first approach, so don’t forget to mention your experience with various digital platforms. Share any successful campaigns you've run online and how you’ve used digital tools to enhance communication strategies.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us without a hitch, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your application and can consider you for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wyre Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Wyre Council's recent communications and campaigns. Familiarise yourself with their media relations strategies and any current issues they’re facing. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you tailor your responses to align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
As a Senior Communications Officer, creativity is key. Prepare examples of past campaigns you've led that had a significant impact. Be ready to discuss your thought process and how you approached challenges creatively. This will demonstrate your ability to think outside the box.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience working with senior stakeholders and Elected Members. Share specific instances where your communication skills made a difference in managing relationships or influencing decisions. This will reassure them of your capability to handle high-profile interactions.
✨Digital Savvy is a Must
Given the role’s strong digital-first approach, be prepared to discuss your digital skills. Bring examples of how you've used various platforms for effective communication and marketing. This will show that you’re not just up-to-date but also proactive in leveraging technology.