View Vacancy - Deputy Head of Communications
The British Embassy, Israel has vacancy for a Deputy Head of Communications, Grade – B3 (L).
Overview of the role:
This is an excellent opportunity for a dynamic, eloquent and highly-motivated individual to play a key role in the Embassy’s media work. Reporting to the Head of Communications, the Deputy Head of Communications will be the Embassy’s key contact with both the Israeli and international media. The job-holder will liaise with the media on issues like British policy, as well as help drive forward an ambitious programme of public events. The successful candidate will play a key part in the implementation of the Embassy’s comms strategy for UK Israel bilateral relations and take a leading role in promoting the UK’s prosperity agenda and overall perception during the process of Brexit.
Main Responsibilities:
• Establish and maintain close contacts with a wide range of Israeli and UK journalists and commentators
• Arrange interviews and identify speaking opportunities for Embassy and other British officials
• Draft and issue press releases and statements on UK policies and Embassy activities
• Ensure wide ranging and positive media coverage for official visits and events
• Develop and oversee the implementation of the Embassy’s comms strategy for UK Israel bilateral relations in Tech, Science and Trade
• Occasionally draft op-eds, messages and speeches for the Ambassador
• Play an active role in managing the Embassy’s digital presence, including the website and social media channels
• Oversee the production of daily Israeli press summaries for senior UK policy makers
• Line management of a prosperity Communications Officer
Key Competencies:
• Leading and Communicating - Effectiveness in this area is about leading from the front and communicating with clarity, conviction and enthusiasm. It’s about supporting principles of fairness of opportunity for all and a dedication to a diverse range of citizens.
• Seeing the Big Picture - Having an in-depth understanding and knowledge of how your role fits with and supports organisational objectives and the wider public needs. Focussing your contribution on the activities which will meet Embassy goals and deliver the greatest value.
• Collaborating and Partnering - People skilled in this area create and maintain positive, professional and trusting working relationships with a wide range of people within and outside the Civil Service to help get business done.
• Delivering at Pace - Effectiveness in this area means focusing on delivering timely performance with energy and taking responsibility and accountability for quality outcomes.
• Making Effective Decisions - Effectiveness in this area is about being objective; using sound judgment, evidence and knowledge to provide accurate, expert and professional advice.
• Managing a Quality Service - Effectiveness in this area is about being organised to deliver service objectives and striving to improve the quality of service, taking account of diverse customer needs and requirements.
Essential:
• Fluent written and verbal communication skills in Hebrew and English.
• BA required (preferably in communications or a related field)
• At least three years of relevant experience, such as working with media in a PR company, or other related communications positions
• Experience in social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn)
• Knowledge of and contacts in the Israeli press including in the financial media
• Creativity, flexibility and excellent communications skills
• Proven organisational and administrative skills
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast paced environment
• Motivation and enthusiasm to work as part of a small, agile, ambitious team
• Good IT skills, including the ability to quickly learn new programmes
Desirable:
• Experience in writing speeches and op-eds
• Familiarity with the UK media based in Israel and Jewish media in the UK
• Strategic awareness of UK-Israel relations and the role of the British Embassy in delivering UK objectives
Working Hours and Remuneration:
The Embassy aims to offer an attractive working environment and remuneration package for this role, including the non-negotiable salary of NIS 11,283 per month plus social benefits. The initial contract will be for one year, with a six-month probationary period. Parking facilities are not provided or paid for by the embassy.
No accommodation or relocation expenses are payable in connection with this position.
Working hours are Monday to Thursday 8:00-16:00 and Friday 8:00-13:30, flexibility will be required including evening events, some travel locally and occasional travel to the UK. Provisional start date is end of September 2018.
Eligibility:
If you are selected for this position, we will be able to employ you as long as you:
• Receive the appropriate level of security clearance;
• Candidates must be able to work legally in Israel.
To Apply:
Interested candidates must attach the following documents when applying online.
1. An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
2. Please provide examples of performance in each competency on the motivation section of the online application form.
3. A covering letter (no more than 1 page of A4) stating why you feel you have the necessary skills to perform well in the above role.
** (Applications that do not include the above stated information will be rejected).
All applications must be received before 23:55 (Local Time) on 20 August 2018.
Applications received after the stated deadline will not be considered.
Due to the large amount of applications we receive only those shortlisted for assessment/interview will be contacted.
The selection process will include a written exercise, an interview, with a possibility of additional screening process. The start date mentioned in the advert is an assumed start date and the successful candidate will be required to undergo security vetting procedures. Any offer of employment will be subject to the candidate achieving suitable clearances and reference checks.
Staff recruited locally by the British Embassy are subject to terms and conditions of service according to local labour law.
The British Embassy Tel Aviv is an equal opportunities employer, dedicated to inclusivity, a diverse workforce and valuing difference.
This opportunity is closed to applications.
