Communications Manager

Role Purpose

The purpose of this role within the relevant business unit and for HIQA as a whole

The Communications Manager will assist the Head of Communications and Stakeholder Engagement in implementing the communications strategy of the Authority. The successful candidate will play a lead role in helping to enhance the reputation of the Authority through all of its stakeholder communications.

Behavioural ExpectationsThe way that HIQA people are expected to work to role model HIQA values

The incumbent of this role is expected to demonstrate HIQA’s values in the delivery of everyday work and interactions with clients and colleagues by:

• Putting people first
• Being fair and objective
• Being open and accountable
• Demonstrating excellence and innovation
• Working together

Common TasksTeam Member

• Seek clarity on the tasks associated with own role.
• Complete tasks in compliance with policies and procedures.
• Adhere to relevant legislation, standards, and internal audits.
• Fulfil any mandatory or professional competency requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality and a professional approach.
• Raise any concerns in relation to workplace health and safety.
• Actively identify learning needs and development opportunities.
• Actively contribute as a team member.
• Follow direction and take on new and different tasks.
• Set and achieve performance goals that contribute to HIQA strategy.
• Regularly seek feedback to meet performance expectations and goals.

ManagerTeam Management

• Set clear strategic direction and action plans for direct reports.
• Build team cohesion and cultivate an engaged, productive environment.
• Undertake regular coaching, performance feedback, and development conversations with direct reports.
• Ensure direct reports access appropriate training and development.
• Plan for and manage recruitment activity and vacant roles.
• Manage staff retention and attrition effectively.

Operational Management

• Contribute to business planning and knowledge management.
• Forecast and manage resources in line with available budget.
• Ensure that policies and procedures in the area are current and adhered to.
• Ensure compliance with workplace health and safety standards.
• Meet audit requirements and ensure legislative compliance.
• Report on performance and relevant business measures as required.
• Identify risks and develop contingency plans where necessary.
• Identify inefficiencies and implement improvements to work practices.

Role Specific TasksThe key tasks and activities associated with the role

The nature of the tasks and activities associated with the role will vary accordingly. It will involve:

• Manage the day-to-day running of the Communications Department, including people management responsibility.
• Be responsible for implementing and overseeing the communications strategy to continue to support the work of the Authority.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of policies and procedures to meet the Authority’s communications objectives.
• Manage complaints to the Authority.
• Provide communications advice and support to all Directorates as required.
• Liaise with appropriate external parties and agencies, including government departments, professional bodies, and advocacy groups.
• Represent the Authority in external settings and act as media spokesperson when required.
• Participate in the development of the corporate strategy, business plans, and corporate materials and, where appropriate, lead inter-divisional project teams.
• Manage the communications team in the delivery of the following core functions:
• Write reports and present briefings on behalf of the Communications Department.
• Deputise for the Head of Communications and Stakeholder Engagement as required.

The contents of any role description are not exhaustive and are intended to be indicative of the scope of the role.

QualificationsEssential Qualifications

In determining your eligibility, the following essential qualification will be assessed as part of the shortlisting stage of the selection process:

• Minimum of a Degree qualification (Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications or equivalent).

Desirable Qualifications

• Minimum of a Degree qualification (Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications or equivalent) in:
• Postgraduate qualification in Public Relations or Communications.

ExperienceEssential Experience

In determining your eligibility, the following essential knowledge and experience will be assessed as part of the shortlisting stage of the selection process:

• A minimum of five years’ experience in relevant communications role(s).

Other knowledge and experience deemed necessary for the role:

• Experience in managing the day-to-day running of a Communications Department, including people management responsibility.
• Proven track record in implementing broad-based communications strategies.
• Demonstrable experience of developing and implementing:
• Demonstrable experience acting as a media spokesperson in previous role(s).
• Ability to assimilate and articulate complex issues confidently.

Desirable Experience

• Experience in a healthcare setting.
• Proven track record in the development and management of communications policies and procedures, ideally within a healthcare setting.

Principal Conditions of ServiceProbation

A probationary period of six months applies to this position.

Pay

Candidates will be appointed on the minimum point of the salary scale (€82,290) and in accordance with Department of Finance guidelines. The rate of remuneration will not be subject to negotiation.

Incremental progression for this scale is in line with Government pay policy.

Salary Scale – Assistant Principal Officer (PPC)

Salary Point

€82,290 - €102,550

¹ After 3 years’ satisfactory service at the maximum.

² After 6 years’ satisfactory service at the maximum.

Entry will be at the first point of the scale. An exception may occur where an appointee has been serving elsewhere in the public service in an analogous grade and pay scale. In this case, the appointment may be assimilated to the nearest point of the advertised salary scale, with their incremental date adjusted accordingly.

Please note that the rate of remuneration may be adjusted from time to time in line with Government pay policy.