Communications Officer

The School of Geography and the Environment (SoGE) are seeking a motivated individual to work with the Information and Communications (Info & Comms) team as they promote and build the global reputation of SoGE as an innovator and world-leader in geographical and environmental research and as a centre for world-class, multidisciplinary teaching, that tackles global issues and contributes effectively to economic, cultural and social advances. The SoGE Info & Comms team deliver and support communications for the academic department of the School of Geography and the Environment and one of SoGE’s research centres: The Transport Studies Unit (TSU), while working closely with communications staff in the other two research centres housed in SoGE: The Environmental Change Institute (ECI) and the Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment (SSEE). You will be responsible for delivering our communications and media relations activities across both internal and external communications channels, such as our websites and social media platforms. You will provide professional advice and support to colleagues, and contribute to the implementation of our communications strategy by engaging in wider communication activities and campaigns where possible. You will work alongside members of the Info & Comms team and develop your skills in these areas. The post holder will report to the Senior Communications Officer. They should possess good technical abilities and be a confident and engaging communicator. They must have the ability to convey complex academic information to non-technical audiences. They will need to be comfortable communicating effectively with people at all levels of our diverse department, including senior academics and undergraduate students. Additionally, they will need to engage with external audiences such as journalists, prospective students, our partners, and the public. Good organizational skills and self-motivation are required, as well as a positive attitude towards working closely with others in a small team. The successful candidate should possess a graduate degree or demonstrate equivalent professional experience. Demonstrable experience in digital communications, media relations or journalism. Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills and the ability to work alongside academic, research, administrative and support staff within the School and beyond. You will have excellent writing and editorial skills, with the ability to summarise and review complex scientific material clearly and succinctly for a range of audiences. Commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion. This appointment is full-time and permanent. Applications are particularly welcome and encouraged from women candidates and black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford. SoGE is committed to equality and values diversity. Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 31 January 2024, interview will take place week commencing 12 February 2024.