Public Relations Officer [MCG/IE 3]

OVERVIEW

The successful candidate is responsible for creating, managing, and implementing Public Relations initiatives within the Department of Correctional Services. The candidate will also represent the Department's policies, programs, services, and activities to internal and external stakeholders, including the public, acting as a point of contact and ensuring clear and consistent communication. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Technical/Professional: 

• Establishes social media presence (e.g. Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, etc.), and manages the Department’s online platforms daily, including initiating/curating and posting relevant content, monitoring and responding to users, engaging in dialogues and answering questions where appropriate, capturing customer’s online reviews, monitoring online ratings and responding accordingly, identifying threats and opportunities in customer generated content concerning the Department, and addressing/reporting notable threats. 
• Assists with the preparation of speeches and messages for the Director, Corporate Communications and Public Relations and other focal persons within the Department. 
• Assists with organizing press briefings, receptions, conferences and other special events on behalf of the Department. 
• Provides response to request for information by the mass media and/or the general public in compliance with the Access to Information Act.
• Develops communication initiatives for radio, television and print media in consultation with the Government information agencies. 
• Manages and updates content on the Department’s website and intranet, ensuring that information is accurate, current, accessible and consistent with approved communications and branding standards. 
• Enhances and maintain a positive corporate image of the organization to the public. 
• Establishes and maintain professional and effective working relationships with representatives of the media. 
• Prepares and disseminates information to the media, public and private organizations and the general public. 
• Develops the Department’s newsletters and other publications. Produces and maintains an events calendar that includes a schedule of the Department’s related events. 
• Generates ideas, develops concepts and writes copy for information and promotional material. 
• Liaises with external suppliers of Communications and Public Relations products and services. 
• Contributes to internal communication channels. 

Other Responsibilities: 

• The incumbent may, from time to time, be assigned duties not specifically outlined within the job description but are within the capacity, qualifications and experience normally expected from a person occupying this position. 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Knowledge of advertising, editing and publishing 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills 
• Excellent time management skills 
• Good interpersonal skills 
• Good customer relations and quality focus skills 
• Good judgment, planning and organizing skills 
• Knowledge of relevant computer applications 
• Keen attention to detail 
• Teamwork and cooperation 
• Ability to cope well under pressured working conditions and to meet deadlines 
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office suite computer applications 

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE

• First Degree in Mass Communication/Public Relation from a recognized institution; 
• At least three years as a Communications Practitioner with research experience; 
• Evidence of continuing professional development. 

SPECIAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE JOB

• Exposure to high-risk environment within Correctional Facilities and their environs. 
• May be required to work beyond normal working hours and away from office. 
• Pressured working conditions with numerous critical deadlines.
• May be required to work on weekends and public holidays.
• Prolonged use of computer. 
• Normal office conditions. 

We thank all applicants for their interest in this career opportunity. However, please note, only short-listed candidates will be contacted. 

The Department wishes to assure applicants that your personal data will be used for the purposes of recruitment and selection exercise related to career opportunities within the Department.