PR and Comms Officer

An exciting role within the University of Hertfordshire’s press office, we are looking for a talented PR and Comms Officer with a great sense for a news story, a cool head for handling reactive media enquiries and a flair for writing. The University’s PR and Comms team is the focus of all press and media activity that comes in or goes out from the institution and is directly responsible for enhancing the reputation of the University with external stakeholders.

Main duties and responsibilities

The PR and Comms Officer will research, write, edit and issue press releases, case studies and feature articles with a particular focus on the University’s research and enterprise activities as well as contribute to the delivery of the PR and Communications strategy, in line with the University’s strategic aims and direction. You will also be expected to plan, develop and implement PR and Comms plans for specific campaigns and news releases; identify and organise media events, PR opportunities (i.e. broadcast and photo opportunities) and media interviews - ensuring key messages are clearly communicated - and provide media support for press events and activities, including press conferences, exhibitions and press tours

Skills and experience

A hub for all media communications, you will have proven experience in a PR or journalism role. You will be able to respond to media enquiries quickly and sensitively maintaining a cool, calm head; spot opportunities to place comments by academic experts on breaking news stories; write clear and accurate copy and press releases. You will be able to support and deliver effective media campaigns and be keen to develop excellent relationships with key media contacts. You’ll also be comfortable supporting public affairs, publications and web content work, know how to communicate with key stakeholders professionally and have good IT skills.

You will further bring to this role strong interpersonal skills and the confidence to build, sustain and manager a wide range of stakeholder’s relationships within the University. You will also be a team player, have a kind and considerate attitude to your colleagues and be committed to the provision of high quality, professional service.

Qualifications required

You will be educated with a minimum of a degree or equivalent, or proven experience.

Please view the job description and person specification for a full list of the duties and essential criteria. Please attach a personal statement showing clearly how your skills and experience match the Person Specification.

We regret that we are unable to offer UKVI sponsorship for this post; applicants will either hold UK Right to Work or demonstrate access to UK Right to Work before an offer is made.

Contact Details/Informal Enquiries: If you have any further questions about this, or wish to informally discuss the position, please contact PR and Communications Manager Vicky Trendall by emailing v.trendall@herts.ac.uk

Interview date: To be advised

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