Social Media Senior Press Officer

Description:

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is seeking a Social Media Senior Press Officer to join its high-performing Press Office in Westminster, London. This dynamic position focuses on managing and enhancing the department’s presence across digital and traditional media platforms, ensuring impactful communication of government policies and initiatives.

As a senior member of the Press Office team, you will be responsible for responding swiftly to breaking news, crafting engaging social media content, and coordinating media relations across television, print, and online channels. You will serve as a key communication strategist, helping to shape DWP’s public voice, while also mentoring colleagues in best practices for digital communications.

The role involves approximately 80% core press office work and 20% capability building, fostering social media excellence within the department.

Key Responsibilities:

Core Press Office Work (80%)

• Respond rapidly to breaking news across all social media platforms.

• Create accessible, engaging digital content explaining complex government policies clearly.

• Monitor public sentiment and media trends to anticipate emerging issues.

• Develop and execute social media campaigns for key government announcements and ministerial events.

• Maintain consistent messaging across departmental social media accounts.

• Collaborate with journalists and media stakeholders through digital channels.

• Participate in daily press briefings, planning meetings, and media response coordination.

• Join out-of-hours media duty rota (evenings/weekends, with allowance).

Capability Building (20%)

• Mentor and coach colleagues in effective social media communication.

• Share best practices through live collaboration and team sessions.

• Develop templates, style guides, and internal resources for digital communications.

• Liaise with the Government Communication Service (GCS) Digital team for formal training and tools.

Person Specification:

Essential Criteria:

• Proven experience managing social media in a fast-paced press or news setting.

• Strong understanding of media cycles, digital engagement, and political communications.

• Excellent writing and editing skills with adaptability for different audiences.

• Skilled in briefing senior officials and collaborating with high-profile stakeholders.

• Knowledge of accessibility standards and inclusive communications.

• Familiarity with Civil Service propriety and government communications guidelines.

Behaviours and Technical Skills:

Behaviours assessed during selection:

• Leadership

• Communicating and Influencing

• Delivering at Pace

Technical Skills:

• Insight

• Ideas

• Implementation

• Impact

Benefits and Perks:

• Annual salary of £55,807 plus £16,167 employer pension contribution.

• Flexible working options: job sharing, compressed hours, and hybrid model.

• Minimum 23 days annual leave, increasing with service, plus 9 public and privilege holidays.

• Funded professional development, coaching, and mentoring.

• Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support.

• Cycle-to-work scheme, travel loan options, and staff discounts.

• Family-friendly policies, including enhanced maternity and shared parental leave.

• Inclusion in Civil Service professional networks such as Women’s Network and Disability Network.

Application Process:

• Written Sift: Evaluation of CV and personal statement (up to 750 words).

• Interview: 45–60 minutes, face-to-face, assessing behaviours, strengths, and technical skills.

• Timeline:

  • Shortlisting begins week of 10th November 2025.

  • Interviews commence week of 1st December 2025.

• Candidates will also complete a short scenario-based exercise during the interview.

Note: Applicants must undergo a criminal record check and baseline personnel security clearance before appointment.

Eligibility and Working Conditions:

• Open to UK nationals, Republic of Ireland citizens, Commonwealth nationals with work rights, and EU/EEA citizens with settled/pre-settled status.

• Role is part of the Civil Service Great Place to Work for Veterans initiative.

• Hybrid working requires 60% of contracted hours in office.

• Visa sponsorship may be available, subject to DWP and Home Office policies — contact visa.sponsorship@dwp.gov.uk for guidance.