Communications Officer (COS Available) at SECamb

Location: United Kingdom
Salary: £37,338 to £44,962 per annum
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Pattern: Full-time
Certificate of Sponsorship: Available

Job Summary

South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECamb) is looking for an experienced Communications Officer to join its Corporate Communications Team. This role is ideal for a passionate PR and media specialist with strong content creation skills, a keen news sense, and experience in proactive and reactive media management.

As a Communications Officer, you will provide strategic communication support, develop engaging content, and advise senior stakeholders on complex communication challenges. The role involves internal and external communication management, social media content creation, campaign execution, and brand reputation management.

This is a hybrid role, requiring occasional travel to SECamb sites in Surrey and the headquarters in Crawley.

Key Responsibilities

1. Media Relations & Public Relations

Manage routine media enquiries, responding with accurate and timely information.
Develop compelling press releases, articles, and official statements to promote SECamb’s initiatives.
Identify and leverage positive media opportunities to enhance the Trust’s reputation.
Monitor and address media coverage to ensure SECamb’s public image remains positive.

2. Internal & External Communications

Plan, implement, and evaluate communication strategies for various Trust campaigns.
Develop and manage digital content, ensuring consistency across all communication channels.
Work closely with operational teams in Surrey and Sussex to improve internal communications.
Liaise directly with patients, service users, and stakeholders to promote SECamb’s work.

3. Social Media & Digital Content Creation

Create engaging social media posts, utilizing graphic design and video tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, Final Cut Pro).
Manage and optimize SECamb’s digital presence across social media platforms.
Track and analyze digital engagement metrics to refine communication strategies.

4. Campaign Management & Crisis Communication

Support the execution of internal and external communication campaigns.
Provide strategic crisis communication support, ensuring clear and effective messaging.
Develop communication materials, including newsletters, reports, and presentations.

5. Stakeholder & Community Engagement

Represent SECamb at internal and external meetings, providing expert communication insights.
Support community engagement initiatives and events to foster positive relationships.
Work closely with healthcare partners, local authorities, and the public to promote awareness.

Required Qualifications & Skills

1. Educational Background & Certification

A degree in Communications, PR, Journalism, or Marketing (or equivalent experience).
A full UK driving license (as travel is required).

2. Core Skills & Competencies

Strong writing and editorial skills, with the ability to create tailored content.
Expertise in media relations and press management.
Proficiency in graphic design and video editing tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, Final Cut Pro).
Excellent photography skills for capturing engaging visuals.
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple communication projects.
Strong interpersonal skills for stakeholder engagement and crisis communication.

3. Experience Requirements

18+ months of experience in a Communications, Journalism, or PR role.
Proven ability to develop and execute effective communication strategies.
Significant experience in social media management and digital content creation.
Experience working with healthcare or public sector organizations is a plus.

Why Join SECamb?

Competitive Salary: Earn between £37,338 – £44,962 per year.
NHS Benefits: Access to the NHS Pension Scheme and other NHS employment perks.
Generous Leave Policy: Enjoy a minimum of 27 days of annual leave, increasing with service.
Professional Development: Access to training and career advancement opportunities.
Wellbeing & Discounts: Benefit from award-winning Wellbeing services, occupational health support, and exclusive NHS discounts.
Salary Sacrifice Schemes: Get access to affordable car and cycle purchase options.

Additional Information

1. Criminal Background Check

This role requires a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, in accordance with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975.

2. Certificate of Sponsorship (COS)

Applications from job seekers who require Skilled Worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome. Applicants must meet UK Visas and Immigration eligibility requirements.

How to Apply

If you have a passion for communications, a talent for storytelling, and a drive to make an impact in healthcare PR, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Apply Here to join SECamb’s Corporate Communications Team and be a part of an organization that makes a difference.