Public Relations / IT Manager

Manchester College of Skills & Training Limited (MCST) seeks a skilled Communications Officer to serve as a strategic and creative lead in public relations, communications, and media management. This position is ideal for candidates with experience in Account Management (PR), Communications Management (PR), Public Relations Consulting, Social Media Management, or Press Relations who can drive impactful, audience-focused communication Role Highlights In this role, you will co-lead with a senior communications professional to create, deliver, and manage public relations and communications strategies for MCST. You'll work closely with internal teams, city stakeholders, and media contacts to advance the organization's public profile and engagement, contributing to the success of a range of city-wide initiatives.,

• Strategic Communications and Media Relations: Lead public relations and communications campaigns that engage key audiences across digital, print, and media channels. Build relationships with thought leaders, influencers, and media contacts to enhance MCST's visibility and reputation.
• Stakeholder and Press Engagement: Act as a primary contact for media enquiries, cultivating productive relationships with journalists and responding accurately and promptly to media needs. Work with internal and external stakeholders to maximize MCST's influence within Manchester and beyond.
• Content Creation and Social Media Management: Develop and manage engaging social media content, newsletters, e-bulletins, website updates, and press releases that resonate with diverse audiences. Proficient use of content management systems, social media tools, and media software is key.
• Data-Driven Evaluation: Employ analytics and evaluation tools to assess campaign performance and audience engagement. Provide performance reports to inform ongoing and future strategies, supporting evidence-based decision-making.
• Best Practices and Compliance: Ensure all communications activities comply with current industry standards, data use regulations, and best practices. Proactively enhance MCST's communications framework to achieve public relations excellence.
  
  Relevant Qualification: Degree or equivalent qualification in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, or a related field.
• Experience in Public Sector Communications: Experience in roles such as PR Account Manager, Communications Manager (Public Relations), Press Officer, or Social Media Manager, preferably within the public sector, is essential.
• Digital Communications Leadership: Demonstrated success in planning and executing digital-first PR campaigns and creating content that speaks to target audiences.
Technical Skills and Knowledge:
• Office365 & SharePoint: Proficient with Office365 and SharePoint for document management and collaboration.
• Media and Campaign Tools: Skilled in using email campaign management, social media scheduling, media monitoring, and image and video editing tools.
Core Competencies:
• Creative Problem Solving: Able to identify and leverage opportunities to improve PR strategies and meet organizational goals.
• Influence and Collaboration: A natural collaborator, skilled at building strong relationships with team members, senior leaders, and external stakeholders.
• Data-Driven and Analytical: Comfortable using analytics to drive campaign decisions and produce insights that guide communication planning.