Communications Officer

Job purpose

To support the delivery of the Commissioner’s engagement, consultation and communication activities, including responding to media issues, to protect and enhance the reputation of the Commissioner. Ensure that news and information reaches the right audiences in the most effective and impactful way delivering a cohesive approach to the production of publications and delivery of marketing campaigns and events.

Main responsibilities

• Support the Head of Communications and Engagement in the development, delivery, monitoring and review of the Commissioner’s communication strategies and plans, ensuring that all activity undertaken is in line with in the Police and Crime Plan.
• Provide a proactive and reactive communication service and ensure media requests are effectively triaged; reputational issues prioritised; and communications approaches developed accordingly to address issues and minimise reputational damage.
• Identify emerging issues to enable the Commissioner to respond in an effective and timely manner, maintain a forward plan calendar and plan editorial content to support a proactive communications agenda.
• Support the Head of Communications and Engagement in developing a proactive programme of editorial content, to provide greater awareness of the work of the Commissioner and to provide reassurance and increased satisfaction in policing.
• Develop and deliver an effective multi-media communications service and maximise the use of audio and visual opportunities, developing innovative ways of communication.
• Assist in the effective evaluation of the Commissioner’s communications activities. Provide a watching brief of activity, reputation risk and ‘radar issues’ that may influence the Commissioner’s messages.
• Attend engagement, consultation and communication events, ensuring the Commissioner is represented in a professional manner.
• Manage the Commissioner’s website and other media platforms, ensuring all information is accurate and published in the Commissioner’s agreed corporate style and promotes the delivery of the Police and Crime Plan.
• Support the Commissioner at events and meetings as required including the production of appropriate briefings.
• Support staff within the OPCC in the production of presentations to be given by the Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner and the Chief Executive to ensure clarity of message and corporate style.
• To maintain an awareness of the activities across the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, anticipating demand, highlighting risks and providing support and assistance as necessary to ensure the office delivers the Commissioner’s agenda.