COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER (Ref: 26C)
Location: LMC HEADQUARTERSReports to: HEAD OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONSPost Holder: MATERNITY COVER 11 MONTHS, FIXED TERM CONTRACTSalary: £37,694 to £38,990Date: January 2027
LMC wishes to appoint a communications manager to cover maternity leave. This position will be appointed on a full-time fixed term contract of 11 months duration. Extension of this contract by increments of one month may be considered subject to business need, mutual agreement and satisfactory performance.
1. Job Purpose
Reporting to the Head of Marketing and Communications we are looking for a self-motivated individual to strategically develop and lead the communications output of LMC to boost the reputation of the organisation and its work for the beef and lamb industry and to boost engagement with key stakeholders. The Communications Manager role supports the implementation of LMCs Strategic Plan and supports the work of the Chief Executive, Senior Managers and the Board of the Commission.
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3. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
A. COMMUNICATIONS:
Oversee the implementation of all internal and external communications for LMC, ensuring messages are consistent and engaging.
Implement and develop LMCs Internal and External Stakeholder Communications Plan
Develop and implement a social media strategy to maintain and grow LMCs corporate and consumer facing social media channels. This will include development of assets using relevant software.
Manage a dedicated communication budget.
Work closely with colleagues in LMCs Market Intelligence, Quality Assurance and Sustainability departments as well as LMCs Senior Management Team to co-ordinate communications output and develop synergies.
Draft and edit communications copy such as press releases, social media posts and articles for publication.
Manage and maintain LMCs websites.
Ensure our levy payers are aware of the return on investment that LMCs activities achieve.
Assist in organising and coordinating LMC events such as conferences, shows and promotions and manage real-time communications output prior to, during and immediately following the events.
Set up, maintain and update databases of communication information and media lists.
Develop good working relationships with external stakeholders, particularly relevant media professionals to ensure opportunities arise for regular LMC participation in print and broadcast media.
Maintain LMC press relations on local and national level through delivery of a calendar of press partnerships
Facilitate effective internal and external communications.
B. Other Work Areas
Working with the Head of Marketing and Communications and wider team to facilitate the delivery and operation of projects / initiatives arising out of business plan activities.
Working on the facilitation of other projects / initiatives which may arise from ongoing development work with industry.
To perform other duties as required by line manager
4. Planning and Organising
Given the nature of the role, it is of critical importance that the job holder manages time effectively in order to meet deadlines associated with the role, particularly media deadlines. Considerable self-motivation and a confident yet flexible approach will be needed to ensure that Communication Services develop in line with industry and customer expectations.
5. Internal and External Relationships
Internal: – Senior Management. All other staff.
External: – Relevant Professional bodies and stakeholder representative organisations, DAERA, Ulster Farmers Union, Northern Ireland Meat Exporters Association, British Retail Consortium, Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board, Quality Meat Scotland, Meat Promotion Wales, Guild of Agricultural Journalists, Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment.
6. Knowledge, Skills and Experience Needed
Essential Criteria
Minimum 2nd class (first division) honours degree (or equivalent) in communications, public relations or relevant discipline.
Minimum 2 years related business experience in communications or relevant discipline.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and design creativity; displaying strong attention to detail.
Proven ability to execute communication strategies and manage communications campaigns from inception to completion, including scheduling, budgeting, and performance evaluation.
Access to a form of transport
Desirable Criteria
Experience managing budgets and contributing to business plans through implementation of a measurable communications strategy.
Proficiency in digital content creation, including familiarity with the principles around video editing, graphic design, and content management systems.
Strong ability to work collaboratively within the marketing and communications team and wider LMC organisation, ensuring seamless alignment of communication strategies with business objectives and supporting integrated campaigns.
Personal Qualities
Excellent time management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
Excellent organisational skills and ability to horizon scan for prospective opportunities.
Can work on own initiative.
Drive, determination and flexibility.
Confident with well-developed interpersonal skills.
Can maintain confidentiality.
Honest, trustworthy and reliable.
7. Environmental/ Physical Conditions
Hybrid office / home working arrangements are currently in place.
Flexible working arrangements can be considered within the scope of LMCs Flexible Working Policy
Occasional travel will be required (mostly within Northern Ireland) and access to a form of transport is required to fulfill the requirements of the role.
8. Outline terms & Conditions
Full-time permanent (37.5hrs per week) normally 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday
20 (under review) days annual leave (pro rata) + 12 public and privilege leave days.
Defined Benefit Pension Scheme- Northern Ireland Local Government Pension Scheme (NILGOSC)
Company sick pay scheme (after a qualifying period)
Salary £37,694 to £38,990
Excellent training and personal development opportunities.
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