Full Fact, the independent factchecking organisation, is looking for our second Communications Officer. You might be a good all-rounder, or a quick learner who’s worked with volunteers or in online communications. You will have responsibility for supporter communications, on and offline, and for managing our network of experts.
Since we started in 2010, we’ve pioneered live-factchecking on BBC Question Time and LBC Radio, secured corrections from all major newspapers and parties, and our work has appeared in outlets ranging from the Today Programme to Buzzfeed. Good communication is essential to everything we do, and now more than ever since we have some big opportunities to make our mark this year: a referendum and a general election.
We’ll only be able to make the most of those opportunities with our supporters’ help, whether that’s individuals giving us small amounts each month, or top experts giving us advice and research assistance. You’ll be responsible for building and bringing together all of our support base to make as big a difference as possible.
You will need a good understanding of the political system and practical politics but you must be willing to commit to our politically neutral ethos and to be transparent about your own political background.
This is an exceptional opportunity for someone with great potential, a strong work ethic, imagination and initiative. We are developing quickly and we are looking for staff who will pitch in, who can grow with the organisation and take on new and varied responsibilities as our work evolves.
Main duties
- Build our online audience through responsive use of social media, search engine optimisation and online advertising;
- Increase the number of regular donors to Full Fact in line with an agreed target and manage individual donor relations;
- Recruit volunteers, ensure that Full Fact makes the most of people who are willing to help us, and ensure that they are recognised, appreciated and thanked;
- Engage with experts and partner organisations in pursuit of Full Fact’s aims to significantly increase our network of expert volunteers;
- Join in the debate and be an advocate for Full Fact;
- Practice and promote a working practice of two-way interaction with Full Fact users;
- Contribute flexibly to Full Fact’s campaigning and other work.
Experience and knowledge
The experience and knowledge needed for this role could come from lots of different experiences, in paid jobs, volunteering, or otherwise. We’re open to people who can do well in this role, whatever your background or experience. However, you will need the following:
Essential
- Proven strong organisational skills when juggling different priorities;
- Experience of, or clear ability to, reach both an expert and a non-specialist audience;
- Knowledge of Twitter and Facebook;
- Knowledge of current affairs and the political landscape;
- Experience of working successfully under pressure;
- Sensitivity to the political context we work in, willingness to commit to our politically neutral ethos and to be transparent about your political background.
Desirable
- Experience of working with volunteers;
- Experience of managing communities online;
- Knowledge of search engine optimisation and online advertising;
- Experience of working on a single issue campaign.
Contract type
Initially one year, full time, with the aim of a permanent appointment.