Role based in Brussels or Newcastle-upon-Tyne with frequent travel between Brussels, Newcastle and Strasbourg

Background to the role

Jude Kirton-Darling and Paul Brannen, Labour MEPs for the North East of England, are looking for a motivated and experienced Head of Communications to assist them in their work in both the European Parliament and the North East region.

for more information visit our website www.northeastlabour.eu/join-our-team 

Main task and responsibilities

• Responsibility for developing an overall communications strategy for Jude and Paul, including website, press releases, social media channels, videos, publications and newsletters
• Lead and coordinate the development of campaigns related to Jude and Paul’s committee work and wider work
• Support the team to update and further develop content and formats of communication of Jude and Paul’s work
• Develop and maintain, media contacts in Brussels, the North East and nationally in the UK
• Liaise with external partners where necessary e.g. website designers, agencies
• Keep in close working contact with the European Parliamentary Labour Party media operation, the Labour North regional media operation and where necessary the national Labour Party media operation

Required qualifications

• A minimum of 2 years of practical experience in working in communications e.g. managing websites, social media channels, drafting and editing press releases, developing newsletters supporting teams in improving their communications
• A strong news sense and a keen interest in current affairs especially politics
• Excellent management and coordination skills, ability to work under pressure
• Independent and pro-active attitude, strong sense of ownership for assigned areas of responsibility
• Ability to work creatively with social media tools
• Strong team work skills and the ability to work with various colleagues on various projects
• Excellent communications skills, native or near-native English speaker; excellent writing and editing skills
• Knowledge of and experience of political communications
• Knowledge of website CMS and design programmes (PhotoShop/InDesign) an asset
• Photography and videography skills an asset
• In sympathy with the aims and objectives of the Labour Party