JOB DESCRIPTION Job Title: Communications Officer Reports to: Senior Information and Media Relations Officer Main Duties The Communications Officer reports to the Senior Information and Media Relations Officer, developing and implementing communications for internal and external audiences, including staff, stakeholders and partners, media, members of the public, which contribute to the overall achievement of the Offices vision and strategic objectives. The post involves communicating the work of the office proactively via traditional and digital media and managing reactive media communications, as well as wider engagement with key partners and stakeholders. Key Responsibilities To act as a first point of contact for information requests from members of the public and for media enquiries, developing and issuing timely, accurate, approved responses and official media statements. To produce concise, accurate media releases which distil and reflect the investigative work of the office, and are effective in attracting and securing media attention. To contribute to the development of effective media relations, to monitor media coverage, and to identify emerging media issues. To provide occasional on call media cover, as and when required, for critical incidents. To produce tailored and engaging content for target audiences across corporate communications channels, including digital platforms (website, intranet and social media networking sites), maintaining a consistent tone of voice, branding and messaging. To contribute to the development and management of digital media platforms. To provide communications advice as appropriate to senior leaders and colleagues. To contribute to the development and implementation of effective communications and engagement activities, with external and internal partners and stakeholders. To assist with the preparation and procurement of corporate literature and promotional items. To have responsibility for all records held, created or used as part of the business, including corporate and administrative records whether paper-based or electronic and also including emails, in line with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and the Law Enforcement Directive as well as the Data Protection Act 2018. To comply with Section 75 duties of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 by having due regard to the need to promote equality of opportunity between: Persons of different religious beliefs, political opinion, racial group, age, marital status or sexual orientation; Men and women generally; Persons with a disability and persons without; Persons with dependants and persons without. Any other relevant duties appropriate to the grade as may be required within the Information and Communication Unit. Essential Criteria A degree level qualification and a minimum of 2 years experience gained in a public information/communications or journalism/news environment. OR In the absence of the educational qualification a minimum of 5 years experience gained in a public information/communications or journalism/news environment. Desirable Criteria Previous experience of management of digital platforms, including social media channels, a website or intranet. Experience of summarising reports or other detailed documents in media article or press release form. Experience of working in a sensitive public information/communications environment.