The Western Development Commission (WDC) is a statutory body whose role is to promote the social and economic development of the western region of Ireland. The WDC works with a range of stakeholders to support sustainable and inclusive growth in the region and has a strong track record of delivering impactful initiatives and programmes. The WDC are committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment where employees can thrive and make a difference.
Purpose of position:
Reporting to the Head of Communications, the Communications Officer will support the delivery of WDC’s communications, public relations, and digital engagement objectives. Working closely with the Head of Communications and wider teams, they will help communicate the organisation’s strategy, projects, and initiatives across multiple platforms and to a variety of stakeholders. This is a key role in maintaining the WDC’s visibility and public engagement, ensuring alignment with our five-year strategy and supporting the delivery of communications campaigns for both internal and external audiences.
Key responsibilities:
Digital Communications and Marketing
- Manage and implement the social media content calendar across key platforms (Twitter/X, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram).
- Create and curate content for digital channels; monitor performance and engagement metrics.
- Support the delivery of digital advertising campaigns as required.
- Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders.
Internal Communications
- Draft and distribute internal newsletters including communications from the CEO.
- Create and analyse staff surveys and feedback forms.
- Assist with the organisation of internal events, staff wellbeing days, and all-staff meetings.
Website Management
- Update and maintain content across WDC and Connected Hubs websites (WordPress CMS).
- Support the delivery of a website optimisation project aligned with SEO and Google AdWords standards.
- Liaise with the external web agency to resolve issues and implement updates.
Brand and Design Support
- Act as brand ambassador for WDC, ensuring consistent use of logos, templates, and visual identity.
- Support the development of branded materials including reports, presentations, and promotional assets.
- Liaise with graphic design agencies for larger design and print projects.
Events and Campaigns
- Provide logistical support for WDC-hosted and attended events (physical and virtual).
- Assist in the planning, promotion, and delivery of public outreach campaigns and launches.
Administrative and Reporting
- Support budget tracking, financial drawdowns, and payment processing.
- Assist in compiling reports, filing records, and maintaining databases.
- Provide general administrative support to the communications team.
Stakeholder Engagement
- Engage with key stakeholders and partners on projects such as ConnectedHubs.ie.
- Contribute to the preparation of press releases, stakeholder newsletters, and media briefings.
- Maintain the WDC’s image bank (PhotoShelter CMS) and respond to image requests.
Eligibility Criteria and Experience:
Essential:
Applicants must by the closing date of application have the following:
- Proven experience in communications, digital marketing, or public relations.
- Strong content creation and writing skills for digital and traditional media.
- Proficiency in managing websites (preferably WordPress) and social media platforms.
- Excellent organisational and multitasking skills.
- Experience working collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders.
- Competence in standard office software and content management tools.
Desirable:
The following requirements are desirable:
- Experience working in a public sector or not-for-profit environment
- Familiarity with communications strategy implementation and campaign management
- Understanding of regional development issues or working with rural stakeholders
- Proven experience of working remotely is advantageous
Key Competencies:
For effective performance at this level, the candidate will need to demonstrate that they possess the key competencies for effective performance at Executive Officer level:
- People Management
- Analysis & Decision Making
- Delivery of Results
- Interpersonal & Communication Skills
- Specialist Knowledge, Expertise & Self Development
- Drive & Commitment to Public Service Values
Conditions:
The appointment will be for a full-time, fixed-term contract of one year, subject to a probationary period as specified in the employment contract. All appointments are subject to the Western Development Commission Act 1998 and staff must agree to the WDC Code of Business Conduct under the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies. Due to the nature of this role, the successful candidate will hold a full driving license and have access to transport as this post will involve travel nationally in support of the seven county Western Region.
As part as of the application process, you will be required to submit the follow documentation:
- A comprehensive CV detailed as relevant to the position (no longer than three pages);
- A short cover letter/ personal statement (no more than one page) outlining why you wish to be considered for the post and where you believe your skills and experience meet the requirements for the position.
For more information on this role, please contact Sarah Flynn.
sarah.flynn@collinsmcnicholas.ie
353 719108060