Public Relations Officer (MCG/IE 3)

Job Purpose

Under the direction of the Director, Public Relations and Corporate Communications, the Public Relations Officer provides administrative and communication services to assist in ensuring Media coverage and exposure for the activities and programmes of the Ministry, its Departments and Agencies, as well as the dissemination of timely information to stakeholders and the general public, particularly through new media platforms. 

Key Responsibilities

Technical/Professional: 

• Assists in providing full Media coverage for the Ministry; 
• Assists in organizing Media interviews for the Honourable Minister and Permanent Secretary; 
• Assists with arrangements for Press Conferences/Briefings and Official Signing Ceremonies; 
• Assists with the research and drafting of Speeches, Press Releases and Statements. Maintains copies of all Speeches, Statements and Press Releases to facilitate the Media and the Ministry and the general public; 
• Establishes and maintains liaison with the Jamaica Information Service, in respect of the Ministry’s Media coverage; 
• Arranges meetings with the Media and other groups, as directed; 
• Assists in the planning and implementation of the Ministry’s Communications and Public Relations programmes; 
• Monitors all print, electronic and new media (including Websites, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram) for matters relating to the Ministry, its Departments and Agencies, and brings pertinent issues to the attention of Director, Public Relations and Corporate Communications, and keeps proper records/clippings of such reports; 
• Designs and places advertisements in the media or any other outlet, as directed;
• Assists in editing of Publications; 
• Secures and dispatches official documents and information on the Ministry, as required;
• Provides support in designing Business Cards, Letterheads, other presentations and photo services; 
• Establishes and updates Ministry’s presence on all new Media platforms, including website, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram; 
• Performs other related duties that may be assigned from time to time. 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

Technical: 

• In-depth knowledge of Mass Communication techniques 
• Excellent skills and experience in new media 
• Customer and quality focus 
• Proficiency in use of Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant computer applications and systems 

Core: 

• Good oral and written communication skills 
• Good problem solving and decision making 
• Teamwork and cooperation 
• Initiative 
• Integrity 
• Adaptability 
• Interpersonal skills 
• Ability to manage external relationships 

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• An Undergraduate Degree in Mass Communications or its equivalent, from a recognised Institution; 
• Two (2) years’ experience in Public Relations and Corporate Communications; OR 
• Diploma in Mass Communications/Journalism from a recognised institution;
• Four (4) years’ experience in Corporate Communications, Public Relations, Advertising or the Media. 

Special Conditions Associated with the Job

• There can be high pressure when deadlines are to be met; 
• Will be required to travel locally and overseas; 
• Extended working hours are expected to include weekends and Public Holidays.

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.