Communications Officer - ORK09746

Orkney Islands Council; Kirkwall; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional local authority in Kirkwall is seeking a Communications Officer to enhance public engagement and storytelling. This role involves managing media relations, creating digital content, and developing communication strategies that align with the Council’s objectives. The ideal candidate should have strong communications skills, a relevant qualification or equivalent experience, and be able to navigate fast-paced environments with ease.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to produce high-quality written and digital content.
• Experience in a communications, PR, or media environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and stakeholder management.

Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of the Communications Strategy.
• Create and deliver high-quality campaigns and content.
• Coordinate and implement communication plans.

Skills

Communications expertise

Creative content production

Media relations

Stakeholder communications

Digital content

Education

SCQF level 6/7 qualification or 3 years relevant experience

Job description

Advert

CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S SERVICE

Communications

Communications Officer

35 hours per week

Permanent

£34,320 - £36,985 / £18.81 - £20.27 per hour (including Distant Islands Allowance)

Are you a communications professional with a passion for public service and impactful storytelling? Join our dedicated and hard-working team and help shape the voice of the Council across internal and external platforms.

As a Communications Officer, you’ll play a central role in supporting the delivery of Orkney Islands Council’s Communications Strategy. Reporting to the Communications Manager, you will provide expert guidance on media relations, stakeholder communications, digital content and marketing.

You will collaborate with senior managers, elected members, and external partners to create and deliver high-quality campaigns and content that increases understanding of the Council’s work, enhances our reputation, and connects with key audiences.

We’re looking for someone with communications expertise, that has experience in a communications, PR, or media environment with a clear understanding of a range of communication methods including written and digital content. You'll have excellent creative content skills - proven ability to produce high-quality written and digital content for use across print, website and social media.

Thinking strategically you'll develop, coordinate and implement communication plans for projects, campaigns and services. Gaining stakeholder confidence with excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to advise and support elected members and senior managers on all aspects of communications.

Demonstrating adaptability and initiative you'll be flexible team player able to manage competing priorities and respond to local, regional or national media inquiries with accuracy and professionalism.

Requirements

• Applicants must hold a qualification at SCQF level 6/7 i.e., SVQ3, National Certificate, Foundation Apprenticeship, Advanced Higher, Scottish Baccalaureate, HNC, Certificate of Higher Education or must have a minimum of 3 years' previous relevant experience.
• This post is subject to Level 1 Disclosure Scotland clearance.

Prospective applicants are invited to discuss the post by contacting Kirsty Groundwater, Communications Team Leader on 07818 508323 or by email [e-mail]

Closing Date: 23:59 on Sunday 19 October 2025

Note: Interview expenses are not payable for this post.