Interim Media & Communications Officer

Interim Media & Communications Officer Duration: 2 months initially Rate: Depending on experience (Umbrella, Inside IR35) Predominantly Remote (Potential for ad-hoc onsite attendance)

We are supporting a local authority with the appointment of an experienced Media & Communications Officer on an initial two-month interim contract.

The council is seeking a communications professional with a strong background in local government media relations. This role requires someone who has been directly responsible for managing relationships with journalists and handling media enquiries within a council environment.

Key Requirements: Significant and recent media relations experience gained within a local authority Experience working within place-based council services, such as planning, housing, regeneration, economic development, environmental services, licensing or corporate communications Proven track record of handling press enquiries, drafting media statements and managing reputational issues in a politically sensitive environment Established experience building and maintaining relationships with local, regional and trade journalists while working for a council Ability to identify proactive media opportunities and secure positive coverage for council initiatives and services Experience advising senior officers and elected members on media handling and communications approaches Strong understanding of the political and reputational challenges facing local government Experience managing social media channels and creating engaging digital content Ability to develop and deliver communications campaigns across multiple channels Flexible approach to occasional onsite attendance for media activity, filming, interviews or key communications projects

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on communications professional with a strong local government media background who can quickly integrate into a busy team and provide immediate support across press relations, stakeholder communications and corporate communications activity.