Public Relations Officer (MCG/IE 4)

JOB PURPOSE

Under the general direction of the Manager - Public Relations and the Director, Corporate Communications and Public Relations, the Public Relations Officer supports the implementation of the Ministry’s Public Relations Strategy by coordinating media engagement activities, assisting with stakeholder communications and facilitating effective external messaging in alignment with approved communication frameworks.

The role focuses on operational execution of public relations initiatives, ensuring accurate, timely and professional engagement with media and external stakeholders.

KEY OUTPUTS

• Press releases and media advisories drafted and disseminated in accordance with established protocols.
• Press conferences, interviews and media briefings coordinated successfully.
• Media enquiries logged, tracked and routed within agreed service standards.
• Stakeholder engagement activities supported effectively.
• Media monitoring logs compiled and maintained.
• PR activity reports prepared and submitted on schedule.

KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS

Media Coordination & Support

• Draft press releases, media advisories, fact sheets and briefing notes as directed.
• Coordinate logistics for press conferences, interviews and media briefings.
• Liaise with journalists and media houses regarding routine enquiries.
• Maintain and update media contact databases.
• Distribute approved media materials to relevant outlets.

Media Monitoring & Reporting

• Monitor print, broadcast and online media coverage relating to the Ministry.
• Compile daily or periodic media monitoring logs.
• Escalate emerging media issues to the Manager – Public Relations.
• Provide inputs for PR performance reports and analysis.

Stakeholder Engagement Support

• Assist in coordinating stakeholder engagement activities in support of Ministry initiatives.
• Support preparation and distribution of stakeholder communication materials.
• Follow up on stakeholder enquiries and correspondence as assigned.
• Provide logistical support for external outreach activities.

Crisis Communication Support

• Assist in preparing draft responses to media enquiries during sensitive or high-risk situations.
• Support urgent coordination of media engagements when required.
• Maintain accurate documentation of crisis-related communications.

Administrative & Documentation Support

• Maintain organised records of media enquiries, releases and coverage.
• Support preparation of monthly, quarterly and annual PR reports.
• Ensure communication materials are properly archived in accordance with record-keeping standards.

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

• Media materials are accurate, clear and aligned with approved messaging.
• Media engagements are coordinated professionally and within established timelines.
• Enquiries are responded to promptly and appropriately.
• Media monitoring logs are complete and submitted on schedule.
• Documentation is accurate and properly maintained.
• Professional conduct maintained in all interactions with media and stakeholders.

AUTHORITY

• Distributes approved media materials.
• Provides draft responses for review and approval by the Manager – Public Relations.
• Recommends improvements to media coordination processes.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Core

• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Sound professional judgment
• High level of integrity and discretion

Technical

• Knowledge of public relations principles and media operations
• Familiarity with Government communication protocols
• Basic understanding of crisis communication procedures
• Working knowledge of media monitoring tools
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations, Media/Communication Studies, Mass Communication, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of two (2) years’ in public relations, media coordination or communications.
• Experience in public sector communications is an asset.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE JOB

• Fast-paced, media-sensitive environment.
• Frequent interaction with journalists and external stakeholders.
• May be required to work outside normal office hours during major events or crisis situations.
• May be required to travel locally and overseas.