Communications Officer for SNP Parliamentary Group

The SNP Parliamentary Group of MSPs is looking to employ a full-time Communications Officer with immediate effect.

Location: Holyrood

Hours: Full-time; 35 hours

Salary: £31,451 per annum

Desirable candidates will have experience of actively promoting news stories and setting media agenda, as well as experience of using online media to communicate key messages and target new audiences. Applicants should have a firm knowledge of current Scottish politics at all levels, the Scottish Parliamentary system and the Scottish media.

Responsibilities

• Producing materials that effectively convey the Group’s aims to the general public and media
  • Keeping up to date with current media developments
  • Building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders, SNP Groups, Ministers and Cabinet Secretaries
  • Producing high quality press briefings, speeches, presentations and written materials

• Identifying potential media opportunities and acting as media contact
  • Organising and arranging interviews and press conferences as specified
  • Identifying forthcoming events, in turn promoting the Group’s work
  • Developing creative new engagement methods for social media accounts
  • Representing the Group in dealing with media and providing statements where appropriate

• Following all media outlets to capture relevant developments as they happen
  • Maintaining information systems to support communications

Requirements

• Have an interest in politics with the confidence to make representations in a media-related capacity
• Be capable in monitoring media developments and sourcing information from a range of channels
• Have the ability to foster good working relationships with confidence to understand how the media world operates
• Be creative in designing and communicating over a range of formats on different media platforms
• Have flexibility using relevant IT skills and writing styles, covering both traditional and newer forms of media
• Be a quick learner with the ability to multitask and work within tight timescales
• Have excellent communications skills, with accurate attention to detail and the ability to work effectively with colleagues

For any questions about the role please contact [email protected]

To apply, click on "send CV" and upload your CV and supporting statement, explaining your suitability for the position, as one document. When you've clicked "send CV" use the text box to provide wording for the covering email.

Applicants may also wish to include with their CVs any examples of their experience including press releases, articles and/or coverage obtained.

Closing date: 5pm on Friday 9 June