Job Overview:
We are looking for a Communications Assistant to join us on a fixed term (12 months; renewable subject to funding) basis to work across core UKCDR campaigns. The Communications Assistant will work closely with the Communications Manager to create communications content. They will assist in important communication activities around our work in areas such as data mapping, climate change, and equitable research partnerships. They will lead the production of compelling content: social media, videos, and publications on brand and on message. They will explore new ways of promoting UKCDR’s work, develop and manage our social media channels, assist with the management of our website, and develop links across our stakeholders. They will support organisation and implementation of UKCDR events as appropriate for in-person, online and hybrid engagement.
Key Responsibilities:
- Demonstrate the impact of ODA-funded research and innovation on the lives of people living in developing countries, as well as the benefits this brings back to the UK, so that people understand the value of the UK’s investment.
- Increase engagement with research and innovation communities in the UK and internationally to promote funding opportunities, celebrate success and facilitate new research partnerships
- Improve communication between members, stakeholders and the research community respectively to tell the joint narrative of UK’s funding efforts.
Person Specification:
Essential
- A first or upper second-class Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in communications or a subject relevant to the work of UKCDR;
- Experience of contributing to professional digital communications campaigns;
- Experience leading or contributing to targeted and relevant promotional materials;
- Outstanding writing and editorial skills, with the ability to review and summarise complex materials clearly and succinctly for a range of audiences;
- Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills and the ability to work alongside academic, research, administrative and support staff.
Desirable
- Interest in, and background knowledge of, issues related to international development research, the UK International Development Strategy
- Experience interviewing people for content creation, filming and/or editing video.
- Relevant technical know-how, including:
- Experience of using content management systems (e.g. WordPress, MailChimp) ;
- Experience managing social network accounts, including Twitter and LinkedIn;
- Some experience of using Photoshop, Canva or InDesign;
- Familiarity with Google Analytics and other communications monitoring tools;
- Audio and/or video editing software for the production of web-based materials.
We are committed to the professional development of our staff and will ensure that the successful candidate is provided with a range of experiences and opportunities during their time with us.