This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced communications and external affairs leader with a successful track record in a fast-moving, issue-rich environment.
We’re looking for someone with high energy, confidence and enthusiasm; a great networker who gets things done. The post holder will be an inspiring leader and a natural project manager who can apply their skills and strategic vision for communications to support the successful delivery of the organisation’s wider objectives.
Leading a team of nine people and reporting to the Director of Strategy, the Head of Communications and External Affairs will lead all aspects of the OGA’s internal and external communications, and stakeholder relations activity. The role will involve very close working with, and providing advice and counsel to, the Chief Executive and senior Leadership Team.
Taking into account the rapidly shifting external landscape, the successful candidate will be expected to develop and implement a new communication strategy that will re-position the organisation and support the successful delivery of its goals.
Working with industry and across government, the Head of Communications and External Affairs will help protect and enhance the organisation’s reputation, ensuring our stakeholders are engaged and understand our work.
Core areas of responsibility include media relations, internal communications, stakeholder relations, digital and social media, events and publications, speeches and presentations and managing the development of the brand. The post holder will set clear objectives, drawing on strong personal networks to maximise the positive impact of the organisation’s work, protecting and enhancing its reputation.
The post holder should ideally bring strong connections to the types of stakeholders we need to engage with. A proven track record of quickly establishing vital relationships is essential.
Ideally, this person should have their finger on the pulse of the media landscape and political environment and have strong understanding of industry issues and interests. The post holder should be politically astute and be able to work proactively and independently to identify opportunities.
The successful candidate must have substantial previous experience in a broad range of communications disciplines, be a strategic thinker and self-starter.
We’re ideally looking for experience from a background which could include corporate communications, media relations, public affairs, policy or stakeholder engagement. A background in energy would also be highly desirable.
The post holder should be focused, highly motivated and have outstanding influencing, presentation and written skills.
Unless otherwise stated consideration will be given to requests to work on a part time or job share basis. Flexible working hours can also be considered.
The OGA’s plan for hybrid working includes an expectation for staff to spend broadly 40% of their time in the office as a minimum.