Communications and Public Affairs Officer

The Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) is a network of individuals and organisations committed to improving the lives and prospects of Commonwealth citizens across the world. Through youth empowerment, education, and high-level advocacy, the Society champions the importance of literacy, equality and inclusion, the environment, and connected communities across the Commonwealth’s 56 member nations. The Society’s unique position within the Commonwealth family allows it to play a pivotal role in convening and connecting the Commonwealth’s political and diplomatic representatives, as well as industry, civil society, academic and business leaders, on a wide range of issues. Founded in 1868, the RCS is non-partisan, independent of governments and relies on public generosity to achieve its mission.

Role Summary:

The Communications and Public Affairs Officer will lead strategic communications and advocacy efforts to elevate RCS programmes and strengthen engagement with stakeholders across the Commonwealth. This includes delivering communications for flagship initiatives such as The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition, the Commonwealth Clean Oceans Plastics Campaign, and the Commonwealth Day Service, while also managing public affairs activities and partnerships, including collaboration with Commonwealth stakeholders such as the APPG for the Commonwealth, Commonwealth civil society, and youth networks.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Communications:

• Develop and execute integrated communication and marketing strategies across digital and print platforms.
• Manage and maintain the RCS website, ensuring timely updates, accuracy, and engaging content across all pages.
• Create and manage content for RCS social media channels (Twitter/X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn).
• Draft, edit, and publish press releases, media briefings, and official statements.
• Draft, update, and edit website content, including news articles, blogs, and event pages.
• Coordinate and produce the Society’s newsletter, including writing content, sourcing images,
• and maintaining mailing lists.
• Design virtual assets using Canva and other tools to support campaigns and communications.
• Create and edit video content for digital campaigns, event promotion, and storytelling across platforms.
• Explore emerging communication platforms and technologies.
• Experiment with creative content formats (e.g., videos, infographics, interactive polls).
• Monitor and evaluate media engagement to assess the effectiveness of communications strategies.
• Manage the transition of the RCS International Network from Workplace to WhatsApp
• Communities and LinkedIn, including setup, user support, and policy guidance. Coordinate and maintain these groups to ensure effective information sharing and engagement.

Events and Campaigns:

• Plan and deliver communications support and logistics for key events and campaigns, including:
• Commonwealth Day Service of Celebration at Westminster Abbey
• The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition
• Commonwealth Clean Oceans Plastics Campaign
• High Commissioners’ Banquet
• Commonwealth Youth Gender & Equality Network
• Provide administrative and promotional support across event organisation, briefing preparation, stakeholder correspondence, invitation management, RSVP coordination, and guest liaison.

Public Affairs:

• Support the Society’s engagement with the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for the Commonwealth, including meeting organisation, briefing preparation, and stakeholder correspondence.
• Assist with the planning and delivery of public affairs events and receptions, including guest lists, talking points, identification of speakers, and stakeholder engagement.
• Draft briefing notes, speeches, and correspondence for senior staff and trustees.
• Help build and maintain relationships with Commonwealth stakeholders aligned with RCS objectives.

Other:

• Support the delivery of communications strategies across departments and contribute to wider RCS activities as required.
• Attend and represent the RCS at relevant events and networking opportunities.