Job Title

The Communications Officer will play a pivotal role in providing communications expertise across the organisation for both internal and external audiencesThe role is key to maintaining and enhancing our reputation with all stakeholders, including staff, members of the public and the media. The post holder will be responsible for leading a broad range of communications activities, including the management of communications channels, projects, events and campaigns.A proactive attitude and the ability to build positive relationships with teams and individuals is essential.Play a leading role in developing, implementing and evaluating the communications strategy for the organisation.Provide effective communications advice and support across a range of communications activities, public relations, branding, advertising and corporate guidanceLead the development of communication tools, guidelines, protocols and policies, putting these into actionLead in anticipating and responding to media enquiries in line with the trusts media policy, and within deadlines; write statements and brief journalists on key reputational issues. Support internal spokespeople at all levels of the organisation, including Trust Board members and other senior managers.Research, write and issue media releases/photo calls and articles for core internal and external publications and newsletters within set deadlinesDownload the job description for the full list of duties.At SHSC, we prioritise the well-being and safety of both our service users and employees. It is our policy and a condition of employment that all employees must join the DBS Update Service. This service carries an annual fee, which employees are responsible for paying up front. However, employees may claim this cost back through the Trust's Employee Expenses Reimbursement Policy. For those requiring a Basic DBS check, it is necessary to register for a DBS Online Account.Person SpecificationOur valuesHere at Sheffield Health and Social Care NHS Foundation Trust, your values are as important as the skills and competencies you bring with you and will learn here.At The Heart Of Our Organisation Are The Values That Guide How We Work And Interact With Others. As a Communications Officer, You Will Be Expected To Demonstrate These Values In Your Day-to-day Work:We are respectful and kindWe treat everyone with dignity and compassion, creating a positive and supportive environment.This Means:You communicate with empathy, professionalism, and courtesy.You value the perspectives and contributions of others.You are mindful of how your actions and words affect those around you.You challenge disrespectful behaviour and promote a culture of kindness.We are inclusiveWe embrace diversity and ensure everyone has equal access to opportunities and services.This Means:You actively consider and respond to the diverse needs of your audiences.You create accessible and inclusive communications.You involve others in decisions that affect them.You celebrate difference and promote equity in all aspects of your work.We work togetherWe collaborate to achieve the best outcomes for our communities and colleagues.This Means:You build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.You share knowledge and support others to succeed.You contribute to a team culture that values openness and trust.You recognise and celebrate collective achievements.We keep improvingWe are committed to learning, innovation, and delivering high-quality services.This Means:You seek feedback and use it to improve your work.You are proactive in finding new and better ways to communicateYou take responsibility for your development and performanceYou support others to grow and succeedQualifications, Knowledge, Skills And ExperienceAssessed via Application and InterviewQualifications & TrainingEducated to degree level in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing or a related field, or equivalent experienceA Level English or equivalentHigh level of competency in Microsoft Office and publishing softwareKnowledge & ExperienceStrong understanding of communications, public relations, media relations, and marketing communication techniques and proceduresExperience in writing and editing content for a range of audiences and channelsExperience managing eventsExperience working with the media and liaising with journalistsUnderstanding of design, branding, and print processesExperience working both independently and collaboratively across organisational boundariesAbility to manage multiple priorities, including urgent and unanticipated requestsCommunication & Interpersonal SkillsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsAbility to convey complex or sensitive information clearly and persuasivelySkilled in influencing, negotiating, and briefing staff and media contactsConfident in providing specialist communications advice and training to colleaguesAble to build effective relationships and work as part of a teamAnalytical & Judgement SkillsAbility to analyse and evaluate communication activities and recommend improvementsSkilled in interpreting audience needs and tailoring content accordinglyCreative and lateral thinker with strong problem-solving abilitiesAble to assess and respond to media enquiries appropriatelyPlanning & Organisational SkillsProven ability to plan, develop and implement a wide range of communication activitiesStrong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise under pressureExperience arranging meetings, events, press conferences and photo opportunitiesExperience of managing budgets and contracts for communications services and materialsDigital & Technical SkillsProficient in using digital tools including website content management systems, social media platforms, Canva, and analytics tools such as Google AnalyticsExperience managing multiple corporate social media accountsCompetency in Adobe Creative Cloud (desirable)Understanding of web software and accessibility standards (desirable)Other RequirementsAbility to travel within Sheffield and occasionally to regional or national meetingsFlexible and responsive to changing priorities and urgent requestsLNKD1_UKTJ#J-18808-Ljbffr