The central work of a Public Affairs Officer is to help represent the Church and its mission to key external audiences, including media, community leaders, government officials, and other stakeholders. The role involves building and maintaining relationships that foster understanding, goodwill, and collaboration. The Public Affairs Officer will actively support Church and Area leaders by providing expertise in public affairs, media engagement, and political outreach.
The role includes developing and disseminating content to raise awareness of the Church’s contributions and responding to media enquiries. The Public Affairs Officer will also support the Church’s engagement with government bodies and policymakers to strengthen relationships and ensure the Church’s voice is heard on relevant public issues. Additionally, the position involves organising impactful events and training local members and leadership in public affairs best practices.
1. Support the Public Affairs manager in building and maintaining relationships with journalists, editors, and other media representatives. Draft and distribute press releases, manage media enquiries, and facilitate media interviews with Church leaders.
2. Monitor political developments and legislation relevant to the Church’s mission, values, and programmes. Provide briefings and recommendations to Church leadership on government and public policy matters. Assist in building relationships with government officials, policymakers, and political stakeholders to promote the Church’s interests and contributions.
3. Assist in building and maintaining relationships with community leaders, interfaith organisations, and government representatives.
4. Plan, organise, and execute public affairs events such as community service initiatives, open houses, and interfaith forums.
5. Track media coverage, analyse public opinion trends, and prepare reports for senior team members.
6. Assist in training church volunteers throughout the Europe North Area on key public affairs responsibilities, including, media relations and political outreach.
7. University degree in public relations, communications or related field.
8. A minimum of three years’ experience (preferred five) in public relations, communications, politics, or a related field.
9. English proficiency, excellent written, spoken and interpersonal skills.
10. Awareness of media and political landscape.
11. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to craft clear and compelling narratives.
12. Ability to work under pressure, ensuring consistent and professional messaging in fast-paced situations.
13. Persuasive and resilient to handle pressure, criticism, and crises.
14. Experience working with professional media, government and business leaders.
15. Knowledge of Church policies, procedures and doctrines.
16. Familiarity with Church organisation and priesthood governance, event planning and management.