Communications Officer

VANRATH are delighted to be assisting our client, a large Public Sector Organisation with the recruitment of a Communications Officer to join their team based in Belfast Location to be agreed with candidate at one of the four main offices, Belfast, Armagh, Omagh or Antrim. Hybrid role with working from home and also travel to events, photo-ops, filming etc. Hourly rate of pay £24.89 Hours - 36hours Overview The Senior Communications and Media Officer will work as part of a team to provide a modern, professional and high-quality communications and media service, aligned with the Communications Strategy and organisational priorities.

A key focus of the role will be providing clear, practical and timely communications support and advice to schools, working closely with the Controlled Schools Unit. The postholder will work closely with the Directorates, senior leaders and project teams to support key priorities, manage emerging issues and build confidence in the businesses work. As part of the press and media function, the postholder will provide a timely, open and responsive approach to media enquiries, including complex and high-profile issues.

They will develop effective relationships with journalists and ensure that public communications are clear, accurate and consistent. About the role The postholder will develop, implement and evaluate evidence-based communications strategies for key projects and campaigns, providing schools, families, children and young people, and other stakeholders with engaging, accurate and helpful information.

Responsibilities include:

Strategic Communications Planning Support the delivery and ongoing development of the Communications Strategy. Develop communications plans for assigned Directorates or Programmes, with clear priorities, targets and outcomes. Provide strategic communications advice to senior leaders on planned activity and complex or high-profile issues. Work flexibly across the Communications Team to support key projects and emerging priorities. Monitor media, social media and political developments affecting schools.

Support for Schools Provide practical communications and media advice to schools on planned and emerging issues, working closely as appropriate with the Controlled Schools Unit. Develop and deliver communications and media training for principals, teachers and governors. Support schools with official openings and other key events. Provide communications support during critical and emergency incidents. Media Relations Work as part of a team to provide an open, timely and proactive media service.

Identify opportunities for positive local and national media coverage. Manage complex and high-profile media enquiries, ensuring responses are clear, accurate and transparent. Draft news releases, statements, key messages and Q&As, and arrange briefings and interviews. Monitor and analyse media coverage and provide media training to key staff. Participate in the on-call rota as required. Digital Communications Develop digital and social media plans for projects and initiatives.

Produce engaging content across the digital channels. Review performance data to improve reach and engagement. Where appropriate, provide advice and support to staff and schools in relation to misinformation, offensive content and online abuse. Support the development of social media strategy and policies. Campaigns and Communications Strategies Develop, deliver and evaluate communications strategies and campaigns for major projects and initiatives.

Build strong relationships with schools, families, staff, young people and sectoral partners. Lead communications for key events and deliver the annual publicity programme. Produce and update content for stakeholder…