Senior Communications and Engagement Officer – Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service

12-month Fixed Term or Secondment considered

Benefits:
Salary: £38,626 – £43,693 per annum, Grade 5
Hours: Full Time – 37 hours per week
Location – Service Headquarters, Calcot, Reading
Excellent annual leave allowance of 28 days, flexible working, onsite gym, parking facilities and a Local Government Pension Scheme are available

An excellent opportunity has arisen within Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) for a Senior Communications and Engagement Officer to join the team on a 12-month fixed term contract or as a secondment opportunity.
You will be responsible for delivering a proactive and effective communications service in support of RBFRS’ strategic commitments and vision.

About you:
As the Senior Communications and Engagement Officer, you will be critical in delivering the Communications and Engagement Strategy Action Plan, driving change and improvements across the function. As part of the team, you will develop and participate in all communications activities, including working with stakeholders within and outside the organisation, while promoting high levels of engagement and advocacy to deliver a service which reflects contemporary best practice.

The key focus of this role (Key Responsibilities and Deliverables) is:
• Liaise with the media and manage queries and supporting requests for data, pictures and information in a timely manner.
• Lead the delivery of the Communications and Engagement Strategy Action Plan with other team members, colleagues and the Senior Leadership Team to plan, deliver and evaluate effective internal and external communications and engagement initiatives which support the corporate vision and objectives.
• Manage the RBFRS social media presence, including the sourcing and updating of content, monitoring of activity, evaluating impact and dealing with any customer enquiries.
• Act as the project manager for communication and engagement work streams of assigned strategic projects and programmes with other team members and colleagues from across the organisation.
• Provide professional guidance and advice on strategic communication and reputational matters to the Senior Leadership Team and develop communication strategies and plans accordingly.

Key role requirements (knowledge, skills and experience):
• A good understanding of communications and engagement theory and practice
• Prior experience managing people, ability to teach, coach and develop others
• A background of working within a communications/PR/journalism /internal communications role
• Knowledge of social media and web-based communications channels for business use
• Ability to make decisions within own area of responsibility, demonstrating strategic thinking skills
• A methodical approach with the ability to accurately undertake detailed work.