Communications Officer

Salary: SO1, SCP 25-27; £35,235 - £37,035 per annum Main Purpose of Job: The postholder will be responsible for the day-to-day delivery of the Council’s communications functions, providing advice and guidance to officers and Elected Members.

Summary of Responsibilities: Media • Research, prepare and manage both proactive and reactive media releases / statement and queries and act as a point of contact for the media on any issues ensuring that a positive working relationship is developed and maintained across the local, regional and national media. • Assist in the implementation of the various corporate Strategies including, Marketing and Communications, Consultation and Engagement Framework and adhere to the Communication’s Protocol. • Assist in the development of internal communication channels including the upgrading and ongoing development of the staff intranet as a ‘go to’ source for information. • Provide communications support to Elected Members, Chief Executive, Senior Management Team, Heads of Service and other staff as required, including the preparation of media statements and media responses. • Support the various Council Services in PR and media requirements including attend Council events, taking photographs and producing press releases and as required. • Research and prepare official speeches as required • Ensure that the Council’s website and intranet are effective communication and information tools for the public, Elected Members and staff.

Marketing • Develop and implement corporate communications campaigns (online and offline) for internal and external audiences, evaluate effectiveness, identify improvements and report to management. • Manage day to day operation of Council corporate social media accounts and respond to queries as appropriate. • Create engaging, effective, accessible and clear communication materials (text and visual) in-house for digital and print communications from concept to design and sign off, or with external support on occasion, for internal and external audiences, including elected members. • Work alongside Directorate officers to assist in developing and implementing marketing and communications campaigns for internal and external audiences, including elected members, evaluate effectiveness, identify improvements and report to management. • Provide advice and support on the Council’s visual identity and written guidelines to Council officers to ensure that the Council’s communications are clear, compliant with standards, accessible and easy for people to understand. • Proof-read a range of Council marketing and communications materials, including but not limited to magazines, newsletters, leaflets, e-zines and strategies to ensure all documents are free from spelling / grammatical errors or are corrected as appropriate. • Undertake analysis of online communications using various online analytic tools to evaluate effectiveness and improve performance. • Ensure the Council website is kept is up to date and that information is accurate and accessible. • Research and collate evidence to support marketing decision making within the marketing and communications team to improve overall effectiveness and performance. • Take forward new (online and offline) marketing tools, creating engaging content for a range of audiences and evaluate effectiveness. • Develop and manage relationships with service managers and officers to ensure successful delivery of targets and outcomes. • Support the Council’s internal marketing forum

General • Comply with all the Council’s policies and procedures including the Employee Code of Conduct and Employee and Councillor Working Relationship Protocol. • Promote the Council’s Equal Opportunities policies and avoid all forms of discrimination as both an employer and service provider. • Implement all Financial and Procurement policies and procedures. • Undertake the duties of the post at all times in a manner that enhances and promotes the positive image of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.

The postholder will be expected to be flexible and adaptable to meet the changing needs and requirements of the organisation. The above list should not be seen as an exhaustive list of duties, and the postholder will be expected to undertake other relevant duties, as required. Essential Criteria: Applications are invited from applicants who meet the following criteria: A third level qualification in a relevant discipline, i.e. Communications, Marketing, Business Studies or equivalent and 1 year’s relevant experience**.

In the absence of the above qualification, a minimum of 2 years’ relevant experience** in a public relations, communications or marketing role. **Relevant experience must include evidence of: a) Preparation of press releases, newsletters etc b) Liaising with local, regional and national media relations c) Implementation of a Communications/PR/Marketing Plan d) Use of social media channels e) Undertaking research to compile media responses, press releases, letters, reports or correspondence Proficiency in the use of I.T. – including Microsoft Office Packages and design specific packages such as Canva, Adobe Illustrator Experience of communications activities in both written/press and digital/social media