Job Description

This opportunity is only open to applicants who are currently 'Priority Movers'. Applications from individuals not currently on the Priority Mover list will be rejected and not considered.

The International Communications Manager (Media) leads on development and delivery of the International Media Engagement Strategy in line with the SG International Strategy and International Communications Framework. They are responsible for proactive engagement with global media outlets and supporting International Network staff to build a positive narrative around Scotland.

The Directorate for Culture and External Affairs (DCEA) brings together the Scottish Government’s work on Culture, External Affairs, Population and Migration, International Climate Change, and International Development. The Directorate leads on engaging at home and internationally to enhance Scotland’s reputation and increase sustainable economic growth, pursue our interests around the world and strengthen our international relationships and partnerships.

The International Communications and Brand Scotland Policy team sits within the International Strategy and Reputation division, which aims to strengthen Scotland’s international impact. The team communicates with international audiences to develop Scotland’s reputation as a great place to live, work, study, visit and do business through:

• Shaping and delivering international-facing messaging in line with Scotland’s International Strategy and the International Communications Framework
• Supporting the Scottish Government’s International Network of offices to provide in-country advocacy including around Scotland’s Global Moments
• Strategic digital engagement across multiple channels and creation of tailored social media content
• Engaging with and monitoring international media to shape narratives and maximise key opportunities
• Providing strategic communications advice for international ministerial travel and international-facing events
• Working with Marketing colleagues and the wider Brand Scotland Partnership – including ownership of the Brand Scotland policy – to share a unified and values-driven messaging on Scotland

Role and responsibilities

• Continued development and delivery of the International Media Engagement Strategy, overseeing regular international media intelligence gathering to shape and inform our communications activity and providing advice and support to the International Network to build media engagement in-country
• Work with DCEA policy and SG News to build a positive narrative that explains the nature of SG’s international work and manage and maintain key lines e.g. International Narrative
• Strategy and delivery of international-facing media to support upcoming Global Moments and Major Events.
• Support International Network offices with in-country communications, and work closely with officials, central Communications and stakeholders to plan, deliver and evaluate activity around ministerial visits.
• Develop and deliver media training for International Network and DCEA staff
• Provide additional support for digital and social media activity as required
• Line management of one member of staff (B1)

Working pattern

This role is a temporary position with an expected commitment of 12 months.

How to Apply

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B3 employees.

Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).

Selection Process

All candidates will be invited to an informal discussion with the Hiring Manager.

Informal discussion dates tbc.

Further Information

If you have specific questions about the role, please contact cj.cook@gov.scot

Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.