Location
City Hall, Royal Docks, Kamal Chunchie Way, London, E16 1ZE

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£48,427 per annum

About the Role
The London Assembly scrutinises the Mayor's activities by questioning the Mayor about their decisions and investigates issues important to London. The Assembly consists of 25 Members elected every four years, supported by the Secretariat which facilitates their work. The Communications Team promotes the Assembly's work through press office, social media, publicity, and events. The London Assembly Labour Group supports the 11 Labour Assembly Members in representing constituents, scrutinising the Mayor's work, and championing Londoners' needs.

As Senior Press Officer, you will be part of the Press Office, working closely with the Group Manager and the Leader of the Labour Group to lead media engagement. You will task manage the Communications Officer and Digital Communications Officer, strategise key messages, plan story ideas, and oversee the production of traditional and social media content to promote the work of Assembly Members.

This role involves a combination of proactive media story generation and reactive responses to breaking news. Typical daily activities include leading team catch-ups to plan press coverage, meeting Assembly Members to develop press plans, editing local newspaper articles, and liaising with journalists to pitch stories and arrange interviews.

Experience
- Demonstrable research skills with the ability to quickly grasp information from diverse sources on a wide range of policy topics.
- Proven experience of policy briefing within a political or public sector organisation.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, including producing various document styles for different audiences under tight deadlines.
- Experience producing media-specific information and briefings for interviews.
- Experience working directly with high-profile individuals in pressured environments, handling confidential and sensitive issues.
- Ability to operate effectively within a politically complex organisation with strong political awareness.
- Knowledge of media handling techniques and experience designing and delivering communications plans for elected politicians.
- Proficiency in using the latest information and communication technologies related to media, including designing or commissioning leaflets, newsletters, and other documents.

About You
Organised and proactive with excellent leadership skills to manage a small communications team. You are confident in media engagement and able to work effectively under pressure. You have a strong understanding of political communications and the ability to build relationships with journalists and stakeholders.

Qualifications
No specific qualifications are stated; however, relevant experience in political communications or media relations is essential.