Press Secretary (MCG/IE 6)

Job Purpose

The incumbent creates and implements the communications strategies based on policies related to the functions of The Governor-General. He or she manages and directs the operations of the Public Relations Unit, while liaising with the Special Advisor to The Governor-General and the Senior Executive Assistant to The Governor-General. 

The incumbent ensures appropriate coverage and exposure of The Governor-General’s activities, consistent with the requirements of The Constitution, and the responsibilities of the Office of The Governor-General (“the Office”). 
He or she is responsible for speaking to, and interacting with the media, stakeholders and special interest groups on behalf of the Office, as well as preparing and overseeing the writing of speeches, messages, public statements, fact sheets, press releases, other types of written materials and organizing events such as press conferences. 

The incumbent develops and maintains working relationships with members of the media and serves as liaison between them. He or she responds to questions from the media and the general public, while co-ordinating the distribution of information from the Office. 

The Press Secretary achieves the above by being supportive of “a culture of excellence through people performance and partnerships”, coupled with staff motivation and commitment, as well as high levels of accountability and responsibility. 

Key Responsibilities

Management/Administrative: 

• Convenes periodic meetings with direct reports to discuss upcoming events and assigned responsibilities; 
• Prepares schedules and relevant information related to assigned tasks and projects;
• Ensures that policies are respected and all procedures are carried out according to established standards and in line with best practices. 

Technical/Professional: 

• Reviews, in consultation with the Governor-General’s Secretary, Deputy Governor-General’s Secretary (Private), Special Advisor and the Public Relations Officer, the effectiveness of existing strategies to disseminate information on the activities of The Governor-General in Jamaica and abroad; 
• Prepares and manages the annual Strategic/Business Plan, Operational Plan and Budget of the Public Relations Unit; 
• Leads in shaping the overall communications procedures in realization of these strategies and policies, especially with regard to the role and function of The Governor-General’s activities and responsibilities; 
• Develops a stakeholder community programme for The Governor-General;
• Articulates The Governor-General’s Agenda to the media, stakeholders and special interest groups; 
• Co-ordinates the implementation of public and media relations programmes for The Governor-General, targeting special interest groups; 
• Develops and implements proactive media strategies to support the policies of the Office of The Governor-General; 
• Prepares speeches, messages, broadcasts, public statements, fact sheets, brochures, booklets and written materials and submits to the Governor-General’s Secretary for approval; 
• Co-ordinates the distribution of information, press releases and other pertinent information, internally and externally; 
• Acts as media liaison. Plans and organizes news conferences, media briefings and other activities. Informs the media and the wider public regarding the affairs and initiatives of The Governor-General; 
• Monitors, analyses and reports on media publicity in relation to The Governor-General and those programmes and initiatives with which The Governor-General is closely identified; 
• Conceptualizes the direction, tone and content of material posted on the King’s House’s Website and on Social Media. Ensures that the appropriate approvals are obtained prior to material being uploaded; 
• Reviews the opinions and comments expressed by the general public on the image of the Office of the Governor-General and The Governor-General; brings them to his/her attention and advises on appropriate responses when required; 
• Develops communication protocols to manage crises, emergencies and unforeseen events; 
• Performs any other job-related functions as assigned by the Governor General’s Secretary. 

Departmental Human Resource: 

• Provides leadership, while adhering to the Vision and Mission of the Office, motivates staff towards achieving goals and, at the same time, encourages a team approach;
• Provides direction, support and control to direct report, and ensures appropriate training so that tasks can be carried out to the required standards; 
• Manages the welfare and development of direct report through the timely preparation of performance appraisals, with appropriate feedback; 
• Ensures that direct report is aware of, and adheres to the King’s House Standing Orders, GOJ Staff Orders, policies and other related procedures and regulations; 
• Guides and monitors activities, approves Work Plans and ensures that proper working conditions exist for staff; 
• Serves as a working member of the Public Relations Committee and any other related Committee.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

• Knowledge of the Jamaican Public Service and familiarity with the characteristics of its governance and management 
• Thorough knowledge and understanding of related Government of Jamaica policies
• Solid knowledge in the use of all types of media, including print, electronic and social media 
• Sound knowledge of the Jamaican media landscape in order to understand influences and keep abreast of changes and trends 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills 
• Problem-solving skills, with attention to details 
• Strong work ethics 
• Networking skills; knows the media players 
• Able to work independently and as part of a team 
• Strategic planner 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and related software 
• Possess developed leadership qualities, is highly organized and shows initiative
• Able to think quickly, use sound judgement and make decisions rationally and decisively
• Excellent interpersonal skills and able to interact professionally with all types and levels of persons 
• Confident and shows respect when dealing with internal and external customers
• Calm and flexible, able to work through emergencies 

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• Post Graduate Degree in Mass Communication or equivalent from a recognized tertiary institution, with five (5) years’ experience in Public Relations and/or Journalism, OR an Undergraduate Degree in Mass Communication or equivalent from a recognized tertiary institution, with seven (7) years of progressively responsible Journalism and/or Public Relations experience; 
• Training and experience in project management and project delivery; 
• Training in an area of Human Resource Management (desirable, but not mandatory). 

Special Conditions Associated with the Job

• The Press Secretary is expected to lead by example and take a non-traditional approach to working hours. This means that he or she can work ten to twelve-hour days, on weekends and public holidays, due to the requirements of the Office; 
• There may be pressure when managing the deliverables and other requirements of the position; 
• Travelling is required across the fourteen (14) parishes of Jamaica. 

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.