Work for Sharon!
Sharon is recruiting for a:
Press, Media and Publicity Manager
This is a new post for Sharon Bowles, Liberal Democrat MEP for South East England and Chair of the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee in the European Parliament.
The person will work primarily from the UK in her constituency office in Berkhamsted. They will be the lead person in contact with media on behalf of Sharon Bowles MEP. This will at times require liaison with the Brussels office with regard to information on specialist financial matters. It is envisaged that story and issue research will be a substantial part of the job as well as disseminating the end product.
The post is envisaged as being full time, but nearly full time/family friendly times will be considered. Some evening and weekend work will be necessary in particular for major events, party conferences and when needed to accompany Sharon Bowles on visits. Driving will be necessary on some occasions. There may be occasions when attendance at Brussels or Strasbourg is required.
The individual should have experience in a similar post or in journalism or other media. General awareness about both UK and EU politics is an advantage and will need to be developed.
Objectives:
Increase the UK profile of Sharon Bowles in national, regional and specialist media. This will include a program of monitoring and research of local media to define and develop a strategy for each sub-area taking into account the level and nature of other Liberal Democrat activity in the locality.
Establish additional techniques for communication including sound and video clips, and for assisting or instructing other members of staff as may be needed to achieve delivery.
Coordinate with other media and information staff within the region and in particular with those working for or jointly for the other Liberal Democrat MEP in the South East.
Contribute within the wider team to the development of information and campaigning themes for general pursuit within the office including engaging with the national party staff as appropriate for the delivery of issues with a European aspect.
Research positive media response messages to Eurosceptic propaganda.
Person specification:
An ability to make decisions in a high profile and high-pressure working environment.
A good team player.
Excellent interpersonal skills and telephone manner: an able communicator with the confidence to interact with politicians, the media, and staff.
An ability to explain a complex issue in a clear and accessible way.
Sympathy with the principles, aims and objectives of the Liberal Democrats.
Applications (CV and covering letter) should be sent to office@sharonbowles.org.uk by noon on September 30th 2009. Interviews will take place in London on Friday October 9th 2009.