Senior Communications Officer (Band 7)

---

Job description

Apple Recruitment are recruiting for Senior Communications Officer (Band 7) on behalf of the HSCNI Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG).

Job Purpose:

The post holder to support its communications service, and work with colleagues right across the system, to ensure the public, staff and key stakeholders have a clear understanding of the key developments and challenges facing health and social care. They will be responsible, through the Communications Managers and Head of Communications, for the planning and delivery of a range of initiatives and services to meet the SPPG s communications needs.

Job Description:

• Lead on communications for a range of projects, including high profile regional transformation, consultation processes and multi-agency partnerships, working closely with the wider HSC and a range of internal and external partners. This will include setting the overall communications strategy, identifying PR opportunities, utilising the full range of internal and external communications channels; working with a range of internal and external partners to ensure effective engagement; carrying out a comprehensive evaluation.
• Provide professional, strategic advice to senior officers on a range of high profile issues, taking into account the broader context, including the political environment. Using own initiative to determine actions required, advising SPPG/Department of Health officers on the risks and consequences of communications options.
• Lead on key internal communications projects for the SPPG to help ensure staff are fully involved and informed on all aspects of the organisation, in particular, on any organisational or HSC changes that would impact on their roles and responsibilities.
• Commissioning, writing, editing and proof-reading of the SPPG s monthly external ezine, and other corporate communications in line with the HSC and Department of Health s Corporate Identity.
• Participate in the media rota and lead on high profile media enquiries which are often of a complex, confidential and sensitive nature. This involves the ability to be self-reliant, to manage multiple demands and to work to tight deadlines, ensuring a professional and appropriate response is provided, including the drafting of press releases/statements, briefing documents/FAQs /Q&As/social media content/key messages for spokespersons, taking into consideration the wider context. This also requires close liaison with Department of Health, HSC Trusts, Public Health Agency and other key partners.
• Ensure information and advice provided for patients, clients and carers is in an appropriate and accessible format, taking account of Section 75 NI Act requirements when developing and implementing SPPG and LCG communication activities.
• Contribute to effective, timely and robust monitoring of media, social media and political coverage and commentary. Sharing of key information with SPPG Directors and other senior staff

If you wish to apply or would like more information, please email your CV in Microsoft word format to Caroline Parker by clicking on the link below by Friday 27th September 2024. You must also include a bullet pointed synopsis at the top of your CV demonstrating how exactly you meet the Essential Criteria below:

Essential Criteria:

1a.) A University degree or recognised professional qualification in a subject such as Media, PR, Communications and at least 3 years relevant experience within a Press Office, Media, PR or Corporate Communications function.

OR

1b.) Have at least 5 years relevant experience within a Press Office, Media, PR or Corporate Communications function.

2.) Demonstrable experience and skills in communications management of high profile, developing issues. A proven track record in managing complex and sensitive media enquiries and interview bids, advising senior officers, formulating responses and responding often within tight deadlines, and facilitating briefings and interviews.

3.) Proven experience and skills in leading on proactive communication strategies and campaigns in relation to high profile and complex projects, working with a broad range of stakeholders, including media, politicians, community and voluntary sector etc.

4.) Post holder should be IT competent including experience in the use of software packages and media databases to create reports, evaluate activity and to present to internal and external stakeholders. Proven experience in the use of online and social media as a communications channel in promoting the work of the organisation and for internal and external engagement.

5.) Hold a current full driving licence which is valid for use in the UK and have access to a car on appointment. This criteria will be waived in the case of applicants whose disability prohibits driving but who have access to a form of transport approved by the SPPG which will permit them to carry out the duties of the post in full.

6.) Excellent and demonstrable interpersonal, organisational, verbal and written communication skills and the ability to influence and advise senior members of staff.

7.) Experience of leading on internal communication projects to enhance relationships with staff and ensure they are kept informed and involved on key developments, utilising a range of channels.

8.) Ability to manage changing priorities, cope with pressure and complete activities often within demanding deadlines. Ability to project manage complex assignments and meet deadlines. Self-motivated and self-aware, with ability to act on own initiative, as well as to manage and provide.

Further Details:

Hourly Rate: £22.37

Duration: 1 month (possibility of extension)

Location: Belfast/Ballymena/Armagh/L Derry

If you wish to apply or would like more information, please email your CV in Microsoft word format to Caroline Parker by clicking on the link below by Friday 27th September 2024.

Applicants must ensure their CV is accurate and up to date. The CV should include your full employment history inclusive of dates, all academic achievements and full personal contact details.

Please note only applicants that match this criteria can be considered for the role.

Apple Recruitment Services is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy. Apple Recruitment Services is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

<!– job description page –>