Senior Communications and Engagement Officer

Senior Communications and Engagement Officer - Higher Executive Officer (HEO) - Ombudsman for Children's Office About Your New Employer

Champion for children's rights in Ireland: The OCO is an independent statutory body with a direct impact on children's lives and welfare nationwide.

Dynamic, mission-driven team: Join a dedicated staff of 44, with a close-knit Communications team, fostering collaboration, professional development, and positive culture.

Positive societal impact: Influence public understanding, policy, and real outcomes for children by amplifying the work of a highly respected public office.

About Your New Job

• Develop, deliver, and support proactive and reactive media strategies, working closely with the Head of Communications and Public Affairs.
• Draft and review all press material, including statements, news releases, and briefings, ensuring clear and impactful messaging.
• Identify strategic media opportunities and key stakeholders, build relationships with journalists, and represent the OCO at high-profile events.
• Monitor external environments (media, political, children's rights), contributing insights for strategy and policy development.
• Lead creative campaigns, internal and external communications, and manage key OCO projects to maximize visibility and engagement.
• Line-manage and mentor the Communications Project Officer, foster team collaboration, and drive an engaging staff culture.

What Skills You Need

• Minimum Level 8 NFQ qualification in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or related (or 5-6 years' relevant experience if no qualification).
• At least 3-4 years' experience in communications, media relations, or a similar field.
• Proven expertise in media campaign development, strong writing/creative skills, and an ability to translate complex issues into relatable content.
• Demonstrable experience managing projects, stakeholder engagement, and working in fast-paced environments.
• Strong judgment, networking, and interpersonal skills-with a genuine commitment to children's rights and public service excellence.

What's on Offer

• Salary: Starting at €60,029 (HEO scale; higher with service).
• Extensive annual leave: 29 days plus all public holidays.
• Flexible working schemes (flexitime, time off in lieu), bike-to-work and tax saver travel schemes.
• Training and development, well-being initiatives, and a supportive, collaborative work culture.
• Permanent contract, public service pension, and long-term career progression opportunities.

What's Next

The closing date is 19/08/2026 (12:00 noon).

Apply now via the OCO application portal, where you'll find the application form and full information booklet.

For confidential queries, contact Jane Sharkey at 1 or .