Communications Manager

Position description

Science Europe is looking for a highly motivated individual to take responsibility of its Communications. The role aims to create, implement, and oversee communications activities, both internal and external, that effectively promote the mission, vision, values and work of the organisation.

THE ASSOCIATION:

Science Europe is a membership association of major public European Research Funding Organisations (RFOs) and Research Performing Organisations (RPOs) from 30 countries. Based in Brussels, the association promotes the collective interests of Member Organisations through advocacy work on European and global levels. Science Europe supports its members in their missions to fund and perform research and innovation by offering a first-class platform for collaboration. Science Europe contributes to the development of robust research policies in Europe and to the European Research Area through engagement with key partners.

THE POSITION:

Reporting to the Secretary General, the holder of this position will assume overall responsibilities in developing and implementing the communications strategy based on Science Europe Strategy Plan, and working with and for Science Europe’s Member Organisations.

The main objective of this position is to enhance internal membership communication and flow of information, promote the work of Science Europe and improve science communication at national, European, and international levels.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee and define internal and external communications strategies and workplans in line with the Science Europe Strategy Plan;
• Implement the communications strategy to a high degree of quality and in a way that promotes messages and activities reflecting the values of Science Europe and its Member Organisations;
• Oversee and monitor the production of Science Europe’s communication material and assess their effectiveness in line with the Science Europe Strategy Plan.
• Develop and maintain a network of relevant media contacts across Europe and globally;
• Coordinate activities to improve science communication with the internal network of communication experts from Science Europe’s Member Organisations, in particular with the Working Group on Communication;
• Coordinate administration related to Science Europe’s communications activity, including quality assurance, managing external providers, project development and implementation.

Qualifications

Qualifications and experience:

• University graduate in a relevant field (communications, public relations, journalism or similar);
• Minimum 8 years of relevant work experience in the area of communications;
• Strong experience in developing and implementing communications strategies;
• Experience in working in a policy, advocacy, or science communication;
• Good network of communications and press contacts from an EU context;
• Demonstrated experience with relevant communications channels such as website management, media relations, social media animation, corporate communication, as well as event organisation;
• Previous experience working in and/or a solid understanding of an international membership organisation or association;
• Ability to coordinate a Working Group;
• Native-level writing and editing skills in English;
• Demonstrated knowledge of different IT and web tools.

Skills and competences:

• Expert written, visual, and verbal skills;
• Strategic thinking: able to identify the right target audiences and define communication specific goals that contribute to overall aims;
• Strong inter-personal, external networking, and negotiation skills;
• Expert at information gathering and analysis: ability to synthesise data and ideas into simple, concise, and meaningful messages;
• Strong organisational skills: the ability to manage time efficiently and to work to deadlines;
• Team-oriented and able to work collaboratively with colleagues towards a common goal;
• Able to work independently and without supervision when required;
• Capacity to deliver high-quality results under pressure;
• Pro-active, flexible and ‘hands on’ approach to work;
• Ability to multi-task.

WHAT WE OFFER:

A 3-year full-time contract as well as a competitive salary with the possibility to become permanent at the end of that period. The salary offered will depend on level and number of years of relevant experience. We also offer benefits such as meal vouchers, 13th month (additional salary payment in December), medical and hospital insurance, group insurance for pension and extra vacation days.

Please note that Science Europe is established under Belgian law, and that employment is within the Belgian tax and social security system.

Application instructions

You can apply by sending your CV and a cover letter (in English) specifying ‘Communications Manager’ in the title.

Your cover letter (maximum one page) should outline your suitability and motivation for the position. Please also include with your application the names and contact details of two people (ideally a current or former line manager or supervisor) who could provide references. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

The deadline for applications is 24 September 2023. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

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