Overview
To implement and drive the Communications Team strategy and deliver the outputs of the operational plan and day-to-day functions. To develop and implement external communications campaigns to support the University’s media and communication objectives. The main purpose of this role is to support and promote University research, education and partnerships to media outlets and external stakeholders locally, nationally and internationally. The role holder will be the port of call for journalist queries and for staff seeking advice on communications issues and utilise best practice in communications to maximise the University’s reputation across all channels.
Details
Grade and Salary: Grade 6, £31,236 - £36,636 per annum
FTE and working pattern: 1FTE, 35hrs per week, Monday - Friday - Flexible working options available
Holiday Entitlement: 33 days annual leave plus 9 buildings closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday)
Organisation Name: Marketing, Recruitment, Admissions and Communications (MRAC)
Purpose of Role
To implement and drive the Communications Team strategy and deliver the outputs of the operational plan and day-to-day functions. To develop and implement external communications campaigns to support the University’s media and communication objectives. The main purpose of this role is to support and promote University research, education and partnerships to media outlets and external stakeholders locally, nationally and internationally. The role holder will be the port of call for journalist queries and for staff seeking advice on communications issues and utilise best practice in communications to maximise the University’s reputation across all channels.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
* Manage relationships with the media and stakeholders effectively to proactively promote the University and safeguard its reputation
* Develop content to maximise the reach, influence and levels of engagement with strategically important stories
* Work with the Corporate Communications Manager and the wider Communication Team to strategically plan and promote the University research, education and business activities to external stakeholders
* Work proactively with press and communication colleagues, academics, and professional services staff to identify and promote stories on the University’s strategic priorities
* Place University stories in the regional, trade, national and international media as well as supporting social media content and campaigns
* Produce regular media, social media and external communication reports to develop and enhance the overall communications strategy
* Develop strong relationships with key journalists, social media contacts and external stakeholders relating to the University’s external communications strategy
* Respond to incoming media calls about University activities and arranging media interviews for academics and university staff
* Manage and log incoming media enquiries across a diverse range of subjects
* Work in collaboration with communications and marketing colleagues in our Dubai and Malaysia campuses
* Contribute to other University public relation activities as required e.g. events, speeches, presentations, publications, internal communications, website and social media content, logistics for video shoots, budget monitoring, administrative tasks such as planning and writing reports, institutional submissions to national and international awards
* Perform other reasonable duties as required by the University
Education, Qualifications & Experience
These are the criteria on which the short-listing and recruitment selection will be based.
* University Degree or equivalent relevant experience
* Prior experience of working in a press office, public affairs team or similar environment
* Evidence of creating media strategies and communications campaign plans
* Experience and passion for creating a range of written content
* Experience of working with content management systems
* Experience of working in a team and leading on own initiative
* Knowledge of industry best practices
* Excellent written and oral communication skills
* Ability to translate key messages into a compelling narrative
* Ability to work autonomously and effectively under pressure and to deadlines
* Ability to make decisions and prioritise workloads and requests on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis
* Ability to think creatively and to communicate creative ideas to others
* Excellent attention to detail and quality of work
* Ability to work across teams
* A ‘can do’ attitude and a great problem solver
* Ability to influence colleagues both upwards and laterally
* Experience of using digital platforms (web, social media) to amplify coverage
* The ability to use edit web pages using a content management system
* Sound organisational skills
* Ability to use MS ‘Office’ applications
1.Professional qualifications in media, public relations or public affairs
2.Knowledge of Higher Education
3.Experience of writing stories for national and particularly international media
4. Experience of creating digital and social media content including video
About our School/Directorate and Team
The Marketing, Student Recruitment, Admissions and Communications Group is at the heart of attracting, engaging, and delivering exceptional student and stakeholder experiences. From award-winning marketing campaigns to local and global student recruitment initiatives, and communications that put Heriot-Watt on the global stage, our Group delivers professional services that support the University’s strategic ambitions.
Seniority level
* Associate
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Marketing and Education
Industries
* Marketing Services and Technology, Information and Media
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