About Us: Join our dynamic team at a large public sector organization in South Belfast and make a significant impact in the world of sports communications and public affairs. We are seeking a talented and motivated Staff Officer to support and deliver our communications and public affairs initiatives, including PR, marketing, advocacy, and more. This role is instrumental in telling the compelling story of the power of sport to change lives, influencing key stakeholders in government, media, strategic partners, and the wider public.

Job Title: Staff Officer – Communications and Public Affairs

Location: South Belfast,

Duration: 3 Months

Rate of Pay: £17.09 per hour

Start Date: ASAP

Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Thursday 08:30 – 17:00, Friday 08:30 – 16:30

Key Responsibilities:

Communications:

• Develop and maintain a robust communications hub with expertise in PR, advocacy, marketing, and digital and social media skills.
• Implement and execute our communications plan, tailoring messages to diverse stakeholder groups.
• Proactively manage our strategic stakeholder plan, remaining innovative and responsive to sector needs.
• Cultivate strong relationships with the media to ensure our views are effectively communicated.
• Collaborate with PR officers of sports organizations to represent our brand effectively.
• Lead our social media strategy, creating engaging content and building relationships with key influencers.
• Plan and execute targeted news stories and features across various communication channels.
• Collaborate with the Sports Directorate teams to promote their work and programs.
• Work closely with the Policy & Insights Team to implement public affairs strategies.
• Develop a range of communication materials that present a unified and positive image for our organization.
• Create communication messages aligned with the corporate plan for key leadership meetings.

Corporate Management:

• Assist in resource management to ensure alignment with corporate objectives.
• Manage individual and team performance and ensure compliance with organizational policies.
• Monitor, report, and evaluate projects and programs.

Essential Criteria:

• Relevant degree or equivalent 3rd level qualification in PR, Marketing, Communications, Journalism, or related discipline.
• Minimum of one year’s full-time experience in a press office, PR agency, editorial team, or similar communications environment with media relations activity.
• Demonstrable experience in creating various media and communication products for diverse audiences, including social media and digital platforms.
• Strong knowledge of current communication practices, including positioning, timing, and targeting of news stories.
• Building networks with media outlets and individuals to influence positive news stories.
• Forging and maintaining strong partnerships and working relationships with organizations.
• Exceptional communication and influencing skills with the ability to simplify complex concepts into effective messages.

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience working within a sporting environment.
• Chartered member of CIPR or CIM.

Application Process: If you meet the essential criteria and are excited to contribute to the power of sport, we invite you to apply for this exciting role. Successful applicants will be required to complete an AccessNI check.

Please submit your CV via the provided link or email it to aidan.drain@therecruitmentco.uk

Join us in promoting the transformative power of sports and communication. Apply now and be part of our dynamic team in South Belfast!