Applications have now closed.
Job description
Working at the heart of the UK’s official statistics system, this is a unique opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment across a variety of contemporary statistical and policy issues.
As Communications Officer, you’ll be part of the UK Statistics Authority’s Central Policy Secretariat (CPS) team which supports the leadership of the UK Statistics Authority, the Board, the National Statistician, the Second Permanent Secretary, and the three Deputy National Statisticians, to fulfil their objectives.
You will see first-hand how some of government’s most senior leaders prioritise their work, perform under pressure and deliver the strategic aims of the organisation. The skill and insight you gain will develop how you think and serve you for the rest of your career.
The role
The CPS provides support to the Authority Chair and Board. This role will support the Authority to deliver the collective mission of the UK’s official statistics system: to provide high quality data and analysis to inform the UK, improve lives and build the future.
You will be the main press officer for the Authority, handling enquiries from the media and proactively arranging media opportunities. You will be a member of a small private office, working together to provide the Chair and Chief of Staff everything they need to do their jobs effectively. As well as communications duties, you will deputise for the Private Secretary to the Chair.
To be successful in this role you will need to be highly organised with the ability to work independently and manage competing priorities in a fast paced working environment.
Apply before 11:55 pm on Tuesday 15th September 2020
Specific responsibilities:
- Oversee timely and accurate responses to all media enquiries. Provide out of hours cover and media monitoring on a rota basis.
- Write news releases and, working with the Digital Communications Officer, prepare content for our blog, social media and other digital channels.
- Develop and maintain positive relationships with key journalists, bloggers and media producers.
- Assist in the preparation and maintenance of lines to take, statements and daily media summaries.
- Working with the Private Secretary and Executive Assistant, to provide excellent private office support to the Chair and Chief of Staff. Preparing papers, briefing and other necessary information in advance of meetings. Working with colleagues across a wide variety of teams to provide insight into key issues.
- Developing and maintaining a high-level understanding of the issues across the UK Statistics Authority and an understanding of statistics in Government and society.
Person specification
Essential:
- Experience of handling press queries. You should display the required Government Communication Service competencies at Information Officer (IO) level, including a strong command of the disciplines required for Press and Media specialists.
- The ability to communicate, both written and verbally, using the appropriate styles to maximise understanding and impact.
- Proven ability to focus on delivery of outcomes, be proactive, work under pressure, respond quickly and decisively to changing circumstances and tight deadlines.
- An interest in the role of statistics and evidence in society.
Desirable:
- Experience of providing private office support or similar.
- Experience of prioritising, forward planning and supporting others.
About us
The UK Statistics Authority is an independent body at arm’s length from government, which reports directly to the UK Parliament, the Scottish Parliament, the Welsh Parliament and the Northern Ireland Assembly.
The Statistics and Registration Service Act 2007 established the Authority with the statutory objective of “promoting and safeguarding the production and publication of official statistics that serve the public good”. The public good includes:
- Informing the public about social and economic matters;
- Assisting in the development and evaluation of public policy; and
- Regulating quality and publicly challenging the misuse of statistics.
How to apply
For more information and application details please visit the Civil Service Jobs website.
Please add your CV and use your personal statement to evidence your experience against the essential criteria found within the job description. Your personal statement cannot be more than 1200 words.
Contact point for applicants
Ross Tivey – ross.tivey@statistics.gov.uk – 020 7592 8644
HR – ONS.Resourcing@ons.gov.uk