Senior Communications Officer

Job Summary We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Communications Officer to oversee and deliver a comprehensive public relations strategy, internal and external communications and collaborate with our Marketing officer to enhance the hospice's visibility and reputation. This new role will strengthen the connection between the hospice and its stakeholders, driving awareness, engagement and support for our mission. If you're friendly, reliable, and eager to contribute to our cause, we'd love to have you join our team! Main Duties of the Job Develop and execute a proactive PR strategy to raise awareness of Teesside Hospice across the region. Build and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets. Draft and distribute press releases, media kits, and statements. Oversee management of website content and function, maintaining and regularly reviewing to ensure constantly relevant and working efficiently and effectively. Act as a spokesperson for Teesside Hospice when required and provide guidance for senior staff and volunteers when appropriate as needed. Monitor media coverage and provide analysis and reports on the hospice's public profile. Craft compelling content for newsletters, reports, and external publications. Oversee the tone, consistency, and quality of all communications to ensure alignment with Teesside Hospice's brand values. Support campaign development with the Marketing Lead to amplify fundraising and awareness efforts. Ensure external stakeholders, including donors and partners, are effectively informed and engaged. Design and implement a robust internal communication strategy to keep staff and volunteers informed and motivated. Alongside the marketing officer and SMT create and distribute internal newsletters, announcements, and briefings. Collaborate with department heads to ensure consistent communication throughout the organisation. Collaborate with the marketing team to create compelling campaign materials and communication plans. Work closely with the Marketing officer to align communications and marketing strategies, ensuring cohesive messaging. Create and implement crisis communication plans/escalation processes, working with the senior management team to ensure swift and effective responses to sensitive situations. Act as the lead for communications during major incidents or organisational changes. Manage external suppliers and any freelance support as required. Work within an allocated budget reviewing and monitoring spend monthly, providing regular updates to the Director of Income Generation. Ensure all activities comply with relevant legal standards, ethical guidelines, and best practices. Maintain accurate records and reporting, adhering to data protection regulations and transparency requirements. Act as one of the key points of contact for communications and marketing-related inquiries and represent Teesside Hospice at external events and meetings. Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, externally and internally. Alongside the Director of Income Generation analyse performance to inform strategic decisions and identify areas for improvement. Work closely across all departments and alongside the marketing officer to develop and implement communication strategies. Ensure consistent and effective messaging across all campaigns and materials. Recruit, train, and manage volunteers to support communications and marketing activities, ensuring they are effectively utilized and engaged. Stay abreast of industry trends and best practices in communications, implementing new ideas and approaches to enhance fundraising and awareness raising efforts. Encourage a culture of innovation within the team, fostering creativity and continuous improvement. Person Specification Experience Essential Proven experience in a PR, media or communications role Track record of building and maintaining relationships with media and external stakeholders Knowledge of Teesside and local media landscape Desirable Experience in managing both internal and external communications Experience in the charity, healthcare or non-profit sector Knowledge of digital communications tools and platforms Qualifications Essential Commitment to staying current with industry trends and best practices Desirable Relevant communications, public relations, journalism or similar qualification Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions. Employer Details Employer name: Teesside Hospice Address: Teesside Hospice, 1 Northgate Road, Middlesbrough, Cleveland, TS5 5NW Employer's website:

https://www.teessidehospice.org

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