Advert CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S SERVICE Communications Communications Officer 35 hours per week Permanent £34,320 - £36,985 / £18.81 - £20.27 per hour (including Distant Islands Allowance) Are you a communications professional with a passion for public service and impactful storytelling? Join our dedicated and hard-working team and help shape the voice of the Council across internal and external platforms. As a Communications Officer, you’ll play a central role in supporting the delivery of Orkney Islands Council’s Communications Strategy. Reporting to the Communications Manager, you will provide expert guidance on media relations, stakeholder communications, digital content and marketing. You will collaborate with senior managers, elected members, and external partners to create and deliver high-quality campaigns and content that increases understanding of the Council’s work, enhances our reputation, and connects with key audiences. We’re looking for someone with communications expertise, that has experience in a communications, PR, or media environment with a clear understanding of a range of communication methods including written and digital content. You'll have excellent creative content skills - proven ability to produce high-quality written and digital content for use across print, website and social media. Thinking strategically you'll develop, coordinate and implement communication plans for projects, campaigns and services. Gaining stakeholder confidence with excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to advise and support elected members and senior managers on all aspects of communications. Demonstrating adaptability and initiative you'll be flexible team player able to manage competing priorities and respond to local, regional or national media inquiries with accuracy and professionalism. Applicants must hold a qualification at SCQF level 6/7 i.e., SVQ3, National Certificate, Foundation Apprenticeship, Advanced Higher, Scottish Baccalaureate, HNC, Certificate of Higher Education or must have a minimum of 3 years' previous relevant experience. This post is subject to Level 1 Disclosure Scotland clearance. Prospective applicants are invited to discuss the post by contacting Kirsty Groundwater, Communications Team Leader on 07818 508323 or by email Kirsty.Groundwater@orkney.gov.uk Closing Date: 23:59 on Sunday 19 October 2025 Please note that interview expenses are not payable for this post.