External Relations Officer

The Talent Set are delighted to partner with a fantastic college to appoint an External Communications Officer. This is a pivotal role, responsible for providing external communications expertise across the organisation. You will initiate, develop, and manage communication channels, create compelling content, provide expert advice, and continually improve the service to ensure effective engagement with a wide range of media and external audiences. The role will be central to crafting and delivering key messages that grow and protect the external reputation of the college.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work with stakeholders to develop engaging news and announcements for external communications channels and media.
• Support the delivery of stories, news, and journalistic content that enhances visibility and engagement with external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with students, staff, employers, and departments to create powerful content showcasing the college community.
• Support crisis communications for external audiences.
• Devise and deliver external communications plans and campaigns and generating a strong pipeline of positive stories and content
• Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists and key media across print, broadcast, digital, and new platforms.
• Lead in the development of the colleges press office and manage press interviews, enquiries, and briefings.
• Contribute to public affairs activity, including preparing briefings and background summaries for senior leaders.
• Provide additional communications and administrative support across the team as required.

Person Specification:

• Proven experience in external communications, media relations, PR or journalism.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with the ability to tailor messaging to different audiences.
• Confident in handling press enquiries and managing external relationships.
• Experience in developing and delivering communications strategies and campaigns.
• Ability to work under pressure, including supporting crisis communications.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build credibility with stakeholders at all levels.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, equality of opportunity, and best practice in communications within the education or public sector (desirable).

What s on Offer:

• A fantastic opportunity to work within a well-regarded college, playing a key role in shaping and protecting its external reputation.
• A collaborative, supportive environment where your expertise will make a visible impact.
• Opportunities for professional development and progression.

The successful candidate will be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, ensuring this is embedded in all aspects of the role.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity

The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, sexual orientation, disability, age, or gender. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.