Water sector regulator Ofwat is looking for a Head of Media Relations who will “play a key part of Ofwat’s crisis communications response” to lead its 16-strong communications team.
Ofwat is currently advertising the role, which has a salary range of £55,031 - £70,000 – according to the job advertisement on Ofwat’s LinkedIn page, to date 79 people have applied for the position.
The regulator describes its own role as:
“to help the sector build trust and confidence with customers, the environment and wider society: keeping water flowing, bills affordable and helping ensure the health of our rivers and waterways. We push hard to improve day-to-day water company performance for customers, including on leakage, sewer flooding and customer service. We drive the sector to take a longer-term view and to take steps now to protect and enhance the environment, using digital and data innovations and making sure our water supplies are secure for future generations."
The job description requirements state:
“With your expert knowledge, you will provide considered, sound advice on media handling to protect and strengthen Ofwat’s reputation. You will work within a dynamic communications environment where stories move at rapid pace, and you will play a key part of Ofwat’s crisis communications response.”
The Head of Media Relations will be expected to:
- Oversee and lead Ofwat’s media relations, identifying and delivering impactful media engagement and building relationships with key journalists and outlets.
- Provide advice and support to Ofwat’s senior leaders, including Chair and CEO.
- Support Ofwat's CEO and Chair with positioning advice and preparation for speeches.
- Design and implement media and engagement plans that maximise Ofwat’s impact and influence.
To be successful in the role the advertisements says applicants will need the following essential attributes, experience, skills and knowledge:
- Extensive experience managing media relations for high profile organisations within a dynamic environment.
- Experience of building effective relationships with external contacts and confidently briefing media at all levels to ensure accurate and informed reporting.
- Previous experience working with senior leaders and the ability to create clarity and influence stakeholders.
- Experience of developing and delivering proactive communications strategies that enhance the reputation of an organisation, as part of an integrated communications function.
- Experience of delivering communications in a policy-led organisation.
- Knowledge and sound understanding of digital, broadcast and print media, and an ability to quickly spot issues that will be of media interest.
- Ability to rapidly brief on complex issues
The recruitment process is being handled externally by Ellwood Atfield which acting as an employment agency advisor to Ofwat on the appointment. Deadline to submit applications for the position is 12.00 noon on 16th January 2024.
Applications for the role should be made through via the Ellwood Atfield website - click here for more information
Click here to download the appication pack
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