Communications Officer - Communications and Public Affairs Division

Reference: 130400466
Location: London, UK | Salary: £56,621 per annum gross
Closing Date: 3 Jun 2013

Job summary

The Communications Officer supports the implementation of the Commonwealth Secretariat’s strategic communications strategy, which involves proactive media outreach and a range of public affairs activities. S/he will be expected to provide input on and execute communications proposals identified in CPAD’s strategic communications strategy in support of the Commonwealth Secretariat’s Strategic Plan.

This role additionally requires the post holder to support the division’s multi-media outputs, notably the development of quality audio-visual material. Demonstrable experience in the multi-media field is thus essential

The post holder is responsible for:

· Managing communications for one or more of the Secretariat’s thematic work areas. In this role, the officer advises programme divisions on media strategy and takes the lead in framing the communications and profile of the assigned area.

· Contributing to media strategy development and engagement ahead of and during official visits by the Commonwealth Secretary-General to member countries. The Communications Officer may also be called on to accompany the Secretary-General or senior officials on official missions with the objective of providing on-the-ground communications support.

· Collating and re-writing technical and official documents in a media-friendly and informative manner;

· Identifying multimedia opportunities and contributing to social media outputs to highlight the work of the Commonwealth Secretariat.

· Developing and maintaining contact with key journalists on Commonwealth matters.

· Coordinating and supervising press conferences, media briefings and interviews.

· Drafting statements and other materials to ensure that Commonwealth values are conveyed consistently and coherently.

· Writing and editing press releases, briefing papers and occasionally, speeches.

· Contributing to the content of the Commonwealth Secretariat website by providing text, photographs, and audio-visual material.

· Identifying and facilitating key media slots for senior management and directors to articulate Commonwealth messages.

· Working as part of a team to identify publicity and news angles for Commonwealth Secretariat programmes and projects.

· Any other duties that may be assigned by the CPAD Director or Deputy Director.

Qualifications and Work Experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in communications, journalism media studies, international affairs or any other appropriate field.

Desirable:

Master’s degree or equivalent in journalism or any other relevant field.

Experience

At least six years of experience as a reporter or correspondent in a media organisation.

Competency in audio-visual or print journalism.

Desirable:

Experience in covering political, parliamentary, social or economic issues; appreciation and knowledge of international and or diplomatic issues; experience as a press officer or involvement in news management; event management.

About the Communications and Public Affairs Division

The Communications and Public Affairs Division (CPAD) is primarily responsible for raising the public profile of the Commonwealth in line with the Secretariat’s Strategic Plan. Our principle audiences are member governments, accredited Commonwealth organisations, partner organisations, civil society groups, young people, and the general public. The Communications and Public Affairs Division does this mainly through strategic communications, including proactive media outreach, and a range of public relations activities.