Senior Communications Officer
GCHQ’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) invites applications for a Senior Communications Officer to join its external communications team. In this role you will work across the press office and social media functions to deliver proactive communications, manage emerging stories and media enquiries, craft press releases, brief journalists on breaking incidents, and support the public conversation on cyber‑security issues.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the planning and delivery of communication strategies on high‑profile cyber threats, including protection of the UK’s critical national infrastructure.
* Collaborate with internal and Whitehall stakeholders to maximise effectiveness and manage risk.
* Produce compelling press releases, reactive statements, and assets for social media channels.
* Brief journalists on breaking news and high‑profile incidents during press duty rota periods.
* Analyse media coverage, identify communication opportunities and risks, and provide political and public‑relations judgement.
* Travel to UK sites as required and occasional international travel.
Required Qualifications & Experience
* Proven experience in government communications, journalism, or public relations with a record of effective written work.
* Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
* Experience producing social media content that supports organisational and brand objectives.
* Organisation and project‑management skills, managing multiple projects to tight deadlines.
* Calm under pressure and able to maintain high standards in a fast‑paced environment.
* Political awareness and sound judgement in identifying communication opportunities and risks.
Competencies (Level 3)
* Seeing the Big Picture– Demonstrates understanding of broad organisational context.
* Communicating and Influencing– Persuasive communication that resonates with diverse audiences.
* Working Collaboratively– Builds effective working relationships across teams.
* Making Effective Decisions– Decides wisely under pressure with insight into outcomes.
Benefits
* Starter salary £55,758 per annum (includes £2,758 concessionary payment); London allowance £6,250 if based in London.
* 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 days after 5 years; additional 10.5 days public/privilege holidays.
* Employee performance recognition scheme.
* Interest‑free season ticket loan and cycle‑to‑work scheme.
* Gym, restaurant and on‑site coffee bars (availability varies by location).
* Paid parental and adoption leave.
* Pension: Civil Service pension plan.
Equal Opportunities
GCHQ welcomes applications from all backgrounds and strives to build a workforce that reflects the diversity of society. We are committed to ensuring a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants receive an interview, and we support applicants from under‑represented groups.
Location & Working Hours
Based in London, Manchester or Cheltenham – applicants must live within a commutable distance to one of these sites. The role involves required travel to other UK sites and occasional international travel. You will additionally work outside core business hours as part of the press duty rota.
Closing Date
24 June 2026 at 23:55
Note
Applications can only be launched from within the UK.
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