Head of Corporate Affairs Job ref: HCA03/25 Job type: Permanent Location: NIAO Salary: £69,115 to £77,016 per annum Closing date: Friday 21 Mar 2025, 09:00 Job Summary Reference: HCA 03-25 Salary Scale: £69,115 to £77,016 per annum Location: Hybrid (regular attendance required at NIAO Belfast headquarters and Parliament Buildings) Contract: Permanent, Full-Time (37 hours per week) We welcome applications for part-time hours (minimum 30 hours per week, pro-rata salary). In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a highly attractive and comprehensive benefits package, including: Hybrid and flexible working Generous annual leave plus 12 public/privilege holidays Family-friendly benefits, including enhanced paid sick leave, maternity, and shared parental leave Salary sacrifice provisions (Cycle to Work, Childcare vouchers, AVCs) Generous NICS pension scheme provision Free on-site car parking with EV charging points On-site gym and an active sports and social calendar Payment of professional fees and extensive staff learning and development opportunities Employer-supported volunteering Employee assistance programme and wellbeing hub ESSENTIAL CRITERIA At the closing date for applications, you will be required to demonstrate: Hold a relevant third-level degree (QCF Level 6) or equivalent qualification in an area related to the role such as communications, law, politics, or business; OR Hold current membership of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR). Technical Competence At least 5 years experience in a field related to the role, such as public affairs, corporate or strategic communications, or within a communications environment and demonstrate strong writing and editing skills with the ability to write robust media material, correspondence, briefings, presentations, and reports. Knowledge/Experience Demonstrate experience and understanding of the political context in which the NI Audit Office operates and ability to identify and mitigate reputational risks. Resource Planning A proven track record of successfully driving and delivering a significant programme of work against challenging deadlines. Leadership Skills Evidence of a proven ability to develop, motivate, and lead teams. Communication Skills Demonstrate the ability to build good working relationships with an excellent stakeholder relations track record, including media. Applicants must either: Possess a full UK driving licence (or equivalent) and have access to a car OR Have access to a form of transport that will enable you to meet the mobility needs of the post. More information on the role and key responsibilities can be found in the Role Profile. All job offers are subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks, including background checks. The successful candidate will be required to demonstrate in pre-employment checks that they have the Right To Work in the UK. NIAO is an Equal Opportunities Employer and welcomes applications from diverse backgrounds. Skills: Public Affairs Communications Public Relations