Communications & Promotions Officer

Section 1: The Role

Cork County Council invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for inclusion on a panel for temporary vacancies in the post of Communications & Promotions Officer.

The role will involve managing and leading the Corporate Communications Team, which supports and enhances internal and external communications across all Council departments. You will contribute significantly to the Corporate Communications Strategy and its continuous development.

The Communications Team is responsible for:

• Media relations (public and press)

• Digital strategies (social media, websites)

• Campaign and content development

• Brand guidelines

• Publications and reports

• Data insights and audience engagement

The appointed officer must be a strong media and digital communications leader, capable of influencing and collaborating across a wide range of stakeholders, while delivering citizen-focused communications strategies.

Section 2: Duties and Responsibilities

Reporting to the Director of Corporate Services, you will lead a team delivering on Cork County Council’s communications priorities.

Core Duties Include:

Leading the development and execution of the Council’s communications strategy.

Contributing to strategic and policy decisions relating to communications.

Promoting and developing engagement and promotional strategies for Council projects.

Maximising use of digital platforms for public engagement.

Attending Severe Weather and crisis teams, leading emergency communications as needed.

Managing website content, functionality, and development.

Handling media engagement proactively and reactively.

Promoting consistent branding and identifying strategic PR opportunities.

Staying updated on communications trends and legislation.

Supporting organisation and promotion of corporate and civic events.

Staff management and supervision, where assigned.

Ensuring compliance with all applicable governance and HR policies.

Planning and prioritising work programmes.

Empowering and motivating team members.

Analysing and reporting on communications operations.

Evaluating communications outcomes and their impact.

Financial oversight, including budgeting and maximising funding opportunities.

Supporting policy and strategic plan implementation.

Building and maintaining relationships with external stakeholders, media, and elected reps.

Identifying areas for efficiency and value-for-money improvements.

Other duties as may arise in line with the role.

Section 3: Eligibility Criteria / Qualifications1. Character

Must be of good character; Garda vetting may apply.

2. Health

Must be medically fit to undertake and sustain duties.

3. Education, Training, Experience

Candidates must have:

• At least a pass (Grade D) in 5 Leaving Certificate subjects, including Irish and/or English and one business subject.

• And at least a Grade C in Higher Level papers in 3 subjects, or

• A comparable qualification or

• A third-level degree and

• Significant experience managing communications for a large organisation, including:

  • Media relations (print, radio, TV)

  • Social media and digital content

  • Team and resource management

  • Branding and public relations

  • Event planning and internal communications

Desirable:

• A qualification in communications or related discipline.

Section 4: Required Skills and CompetenciesEssential Skills:

• Experience managing internal and external communications.

• Experience with corporate social media/digital PR.

• Proven success in promotion and event management.

• Strong understanding of the local authority environment.

• High-level relationship building and influencing skills.

• Proven ability to handle multiple deadlines and demands.

• Experience in team management and development.

• Excellent written and verbal communication, including:

  • Messaging for various audiences

  • Press releases

  • Campaign development

  • Content creation aligned to brand identity

  • Analytical evaluation of communication outcomes

Section 5: Selection Process

• Candidates will be assessed on:

  • Knowledge & experience relevant to the role

  • Delivering results

  • Leading and motivating/managing performance

  • Communicating effectively

  • Personal effectiveness

• Shortlisting may be based on two or more competency areas.

• Candidates attending interview will complete a communications task with 30 minutes preparation.

Section 6: Salary

€59,417 – €77,243 per annum (including long service increments):

• €59,417

• €60,871

• €62,568

• €64,271

• €65,974

• €67,495

• €69,054

• €70,563 (max)

• €72,069 (1st LSI – after 3 years at max)

• €74,649 (2nd LSI – after 3 years at 1st LSI)

• €77,243 (final increment)

Entry point determined per relevant Circulars.

Section 7: Work Location

• Initial assignment: County Hall, Cork

• The successful candidate may be reassigned to any Council premises or department.

• Must have access to transport and hold a Class B driving licence.

Section 8: Working Hours

• 35 hours/week, with required flexibility for evening/weekend/emergency duties.

• All hours subject to the Organisation of Working Time Act, 1997 (as amended).

Section 9: Annual Leave

• 30 days/year (pro rata)

• Leave must be requested at least two weeks in advance.

• Leave governed by the Organisation of Working Time Act.