Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.

Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovate environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.

Are you a creative communicator with a passion for public service and media engagement? Southend Council is seeking a dynamic Corporate Communications & Media Officer to join our Strategic Communications team in a full time, 12 months fixed term capacity.

As a key member of the corporate communications team, you will help deliver the Council’s Corporate Communications Strategy, lead multi-channel campaigns, and act as a first point of contact for media enquiries.

The position will require you to have 10% on call expectation (1 in 3 weeks on call).

You’ll provide strategic advice on corporate communications, support proactive and reactive media activity, and help shape the public narrative around the Council’s services and priorities.

Key Responsibilities

•  Lead and deliver compelling media campaigns across various channels (including video content).
• Provide strategic communications advice to colleagues and councillors.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships across the organisation and partners, that enhances the reputation of the council, its corporate priorities and projects

To be shortlisted for this position, it is essential that you hold a relevant Level 4 qualification or have equivalent experience in communications, PR, or journalism.

You will have a strong understanding of local government services and communications strategies along with excellent writing skills, with experience producing content for various platforms.

have the ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and think creatively.

Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative working style.

Competence in Microsoft Office and flexibility to work occasional evenings/weekends.

When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.

If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.

If you would like a copy the Job Description, please Click here

Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to.

The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.