Our Client is looking to cover a short term absence in the months of July and August, we are seeking a Press Officer to work within their communications section. This is a key role ensuring the organisation responds to incoming press queries, monitors news channels and coordinates interview requests and briefing materials.

* €34,531 - €51,270 / €18.97 - €28.17 per hour

* This role will be for 8 weeks / paid every week through Reed Ireland

** The role is likely to be remote based for the duration of the contract.

Key responsibilities include:

• Answering phone calls from journalists, responding to their questions and working with other sections to draft and respond to queries.
• Drafting and circulating the daily media digest by reviewing all daily news sources and our press monitoring service to ensure all pertinent stories are included and issuing this email first thing every morning.
• Proofreading and drafting media statements as required.
• Coordinate press engagements (campaigns, interviews, advertising etc.)
• Providing general administrative and secretarial support to the Assistant General Secretary(AGS)/ Director of Communications (photocopying, scanning, correspondence, diary, travel arrangements etc.)
• Diary management: Arranging meetings (booking rooms, checking participants availability) also to have access Officials’ diaries to confirm availability/book in appointments
• Acting as key point of contact for media coordinators, working with these key volunteers to promote messages in local print and broadcast media.
• Undertaking research as required to support the work of the communications team in drafting speeches, position statements, media releases, rebuttals and other communication materials.

Competencies:

• Understanding of our objectives and have a strong knowledge of the trade union and education sector within which the organisation operates
• Ability to work as part of a team in a co-operative and constructive manner
• Ability to work to tight deadlines
• Ability to negotiate competitive business quotes
• Strong inter-personal and communication skills
• Strong IT skills and to be proficient in the use of the appropriate computer applications
• Excellent writing skills including with ability to properly structure written documentation
• Excellent organisational and administrative skills including the capacity to prioritise
• Maintain very high standards and demonstrate a strong work ethic
• Ability to act on own initiative as appropriate and to keep well informed and up to-date about matters relevant to the section
• Deal with our members and other section contacts in a professional and effective manner.
• Demonstrate efficiency, reliability, flexibility and attention to detail
• Exercise sound judgement in all aspects of the work