Communications and Business Manager

FUNCTION:	Communications and Business Manager
GRADE:	A2, according to the scales of the Co-ordinated Organisations.
REFERENCE NO:	VN14-12
LOCATION:	ECMWF Headquarters at Shinfield Park, near Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom.
ENVIRONMENT:	The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) is an international organisation supported by 34 States*. ECMWF's principal objectives are the development of numerical methods for medium-range, monthly and seasonal weather forecasting; the preparation, on a regular basis, of these weather forecasts for distribution to the meteorological services of the Member States; scientific and technical research directed to the improvement of these forecasts; and the collection and storage of appropriate meteorological data. Satellite and in situ observations provide the information for up-to-date global analyses and reanalyses of the atmosphere, ocean and surface. For details see: www.ecmwf.int
THE ROLE:	The Communications Section, part of the Administration Department, has an increasingly important role to play in helping the Centre to achieve its  strategic objectives. Its remit covers both internal and external communications. The Section leads on news and media, running effective events, stakeholder engagement, publishing, communicating with ECMWF's own diverse workforce and on all aspects of digital communication. This is an exciting time to be joining the team. ECMWF is looking for an individual with at least 5 to 7 years' experience in a communications team, ready to make the next step in their career within a small but high-performing unit. Overall purpose The Communications and Business Manager will have a pivotal role to play in shaping the newly created Communications Section. The role has a dual aspect. The successful candidate will be expected to have experience in several elements of the communications mix, but also to be ready to lead on the business management of the whole Section. Working closely with the Head of Communications and the rest of the team, the post holder will ensure the team is supporting the organisation with a sharp, integrated, and innovative communications focus and maximising the impact of its work.
MAIN DUTIES:	The key responsibilities for this role are: devising and implementing communications plans, including audience segmentation, message calendar development, channels management and evaluation techniques; planning and managing publications, and supporting events; ensuring the organisation's communications strategy closely aligns with strategic priorities, continuously monitoring and adjusting it to reflect changes in stakeholders' requirements and technical developments; leading associated services, namely the Library, Copy-writing and Translation, ensuring that they respect budgets and deadlines and meet ECMWF standards; performing the role of a head of office, managing external contracts, and line managing some of the team; playing a central role in business planning in the Communications Section; setting up strong monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure the Communications Section can measure the effectiveness of internal and external communications channels and campaigns, understand trends and attitudes, and understand how best to prioritise engagement with stakeholders. These duties are neither exclusive nor exhaustive and the post holder may have to carry out other duties as required by the service. Generic responsibilities To work in accordance with ECMWF's policies, procedures and values. To contribute to organisational development initiatives as required. To monitor the progress of actions as required, reporting any slippage against timescales. To demonstrate a positive commitment to equality and diversity.
QUALIFICATIONS:	A university education to degree standard or equivalent is required. The dual aspect of this role is paramount to the development of this new team and the role will suit an individual that is passionate about both great communications and business management. The person Minimum of 5 years' experience in all communications channels, including print publications and events; understanding and experience of media relations desirable but not essential Client-focused, able to understand stakeholders' needs, and manage expectations Good writing skills and interest in the news agenda on climate and weather Experience in project and programme management Proven ability and willingness to work at strategic, tactical and operational levels as dictated by circumstances and sometimes tight deadlines Willingness to work in a multicultural environment  Team player Intellectually flexible and willing to adapt to fast-evolving priorities The working languages of ECMWF are English, French, and German. Candidates must be fluent (written and oral) in English and some knowledge of one of the other working languages would be desirable. Interviews will be conducted in English. ECMWF has an Equal Opportunities Policy and applications from all suitably qualified candidates are welcome. Staff are usually recruited from among nationals of the Member States and Co-operating States. However, applications from highly qualified candidates who come from other countries will be considered.
REMUNERATION:	The successful candidate will be recruited at the A2 grade and the annual basic salary will be £52,822 net of tax. This position is assigned to the employment category STF-C as defined in the Staff Regulations. Full details of salary scales and allowances are available on the ECMWF website at www.ecmwf.int/en/about/jobs, including the Centre's Staff Regulations regarding the terms and conditions of employment.
STARTING DATE:	As soon as possible.
LENGTH OF CONTRACT:	Maximum of four years for initial contract, with the possibility of renewal.
APPLICATIONS:	Application forms can be downloaded from ECMWF's website: www.ecmwf.int/en/about/jobs
CLOSING DATE:	Completed applications for this post must reach the HR Section of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts at the above address not later than Monday 21 July 2014.