Publications Officer

About us

At Hillingdon we’re proud of our commitment of ‘Putting our residents first’, ensuring they’re at the heart of everything we do! We want to attract talented individuals like yourself who share our aspirations for the borough and can support us to deliver exceptional services for Hillingdon.

With an ambitious strategy we pride ourselves on delivering services that improve the lives of all our residents, businesses, and partners. Embarking on a journey of continuous improvement, we’ve set an agenda to ensure the provision of; safer communities, a thriving local economy, a greener more sustainable environment, whilst increasing our digital capabilities.

Working at London’s second largest borough can be tough, particularly with government reforms, budget restrictions, and political attention – but it’s enough to keep us busy and ensures no two days are the same!

What does a Publications Officer do at Hillingdon?

Reporting into the Publications and Internal Communications Manager, you will be a key player in the Corporate Communications team and support the production of the council's printed and digital publications.

You will ensure the delivery of high quality, engaging and cost-effective publications that are representative of the council and its brand, and inform residents about the work the council does and the services it provides.

These include Hillingdon People (our flagship bi-monthly residents' magazine), various staff e-newsletters, residents' e-newsletters and a range of printed marketing leaflets and brochures.

A nose for a good news story is essential and you will have frequent contact with officers from services across the council, elected members, residents and partners.

Whether your background is in the private or public sector, this role is your opportunity to join a large local authority during an interesting and challenging time.

About you

You will have relevant experience as a journalist, PR professional or in producing marketing materials.

Well-developed researching, interviewing, writing and editing skills are a must, as is an understanding of print and distribution processes and digital communications.

You will be experienced in writing quality, engaging and newsworthy articles, features, newsletters and marketing copy on a range of subjects for a variety of audiences, as well as editing work supplied by others.

A knowledge of design and print layouts is also essential, and you will be able to brief photographers and use photographs creatively.

You need to be able to follow schedules, meet deadlines and work on multiple projects simultaneously.

We are looking for someone who can work on their own initiative with minimal supervision and is able to work as part of the wider team.

What we offer

We value our employees and are committed to ensuring that they enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding career with us. We understand that a happy and motivated workforce is essential for the success of our organisation. That is why we offer a wide range of employee benefits to enhance your work-life balance, financial wellbeing, health, and professional development.
Here’s a comprehensive overview of the fantastic benefits we provide:
Work Life Balance

• Flexible Working Hours – We recognise the importance of flexibility in managing your work and personal life.
• 36 Hour Week – Enjoy a standard 36-hour workweek for all full time staff.
• Generous Holiday Entitlement – You will receive a minimum of 26 days annual leave each year, in addition to bank holidays. This entitlement increases to a maximum 37 days after 10 years of service.

Health & Wellbeing

• Hillingdon Sport Leisure – Stay active and healthy with discounts at council owned leisure centres and swimming pools across the borough.
• Cycle Purchase Scheme – Promote eco-friendly commuting with our cycle purchase scheme.
• Discount on Golf Fees – Enjoy up to 30% discounts on green fees at council owned golf courses.
• Financial Benefits – Secure your future with access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and membership to the Credit Union
• Vivup Benefits – Access a variety of offers and discounts through our Vivup Benefits.
• Eye Care – We contribute towards eye tests and lenses for Display Screen Equipment
• Mental Health Support – Our mental health first aiders are trained to identify, understand, and help employees experiencing mental health issues.
• Support and Counselling Services – Access free 24-hour confidential advice and counselling as well as a legal advice service for you and your immediate family.

Commute with Ease

• Travel Support – Make your daily commute easier with our season ticket loans and free car parking. We also provide bicycle parking, lockers, and showers at the Civic Centre.

Equity, Diversity and Equality Statement

At the London Borough of Hillingdon, we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We value the unique perspectives and experiences of all individuals, and we believe that our workforce should reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

We strive to ensure that our recruitment process is free from discrimination and bias, and we are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to applicants with disabilities. We recognise the value of a diverse workforce and encourage applications from candidates from underrepresented groups.

Join us in building a workplace where diversity is not only embraced but also celebrated, and where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to our organisation's success.

Additional Information

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. Applicants should be aware that the post will only be offered to successful candidates subject to an Enhanced DBS check as well as other employment clearances.

Due to an expected high volume of applications, we could close this role early, we therefore recommend you apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.