Communications Executive
Christchurch Square, Dublin 8
Why work at Barnardos?
Are you a purpose-driven communicator passionate about making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families across Ireland? At Barnardos, we believe that childhood lasts a lifetime—and our communications team play a vital role in amplifying the voices of those we support and the impact of our services.
As trauma-informed specialists, our core purpose is to help children overcome adversity by embedding a trauma-informed ethos into everything we do. As a Communications Executive, you’ll be at the heart of telling these stories, shaping public understanding, and driving engagement with our mission.
What we can offer you:
We value the creativity and strategic thinking you bring to the role. That’s why we’ve built the support structures and collaborative environment needed to help you thrive and make a meaningful impact. You’ll also benefit from:
- A competitive salary that reflects your experience and expertise
- Generous annual leave entitlements plus discretionary company days
- Employee pension scheme with employer contribution / Company Sick Pay Scheme
- Access to regular trauma-informed support, supervision, and professional development opportunities
- Tax saver and bike-to-work schemes
- Access to our Employee Assistance and Wellbeing Programme for you and your immediate family
Please note, this is a 1 year fixed term contract – Finishing approx. Jan 2027 (30 hours per week – over 5 days – Monday – Friday).
What’s the Role and Service?
As a Communications Executive, you will play a key role within the communications team in building the Barnardos brand, raising Barnardos’ profile and increasing awareness, understanding and support for our work with children and families. The role also involves supporting an inclusive internal communications culture.
What will my day to day look like?
- Barnardos strategy – Implement Barnardos’ communications strategy, in consultation with the Communications Manager.
- Press office – lead the press office Monday – Friday, answer and direct all media queries with the support of the Communications Manager, draft media materials and responses, report on coverage analysis, identify and action news opportunities, building and maintaining relationships with key journalists; monitoring the external communications environment; promoting activities across Barnardos to target audiences; participation on a crisis communications team should an incident arise
- Brand profile –oversee central clearing house for written communication materials produced in Barnardos to ensure consistent messaging and house-style.
- Profile building – work with communications manager in the recruitment and development of media relationships.
- Project co-ordination – implement specific projects, to include the development and production of communication tools, the co-ordination of launches and events, and development of communications programmes and campaigns.
- Publications – production of key corporate and cross organisational materials including the Annual Report.
- Internal communications – support a communications culture that accommodates an up, down and across communications flow. Source and develop content for newsletters and Intranet.
- Ambassador relationships in line with the organisation strategy.
- Media training and support for spokespeople, identifying opportunities and pitching.
- Media evaluation and reporting for campaigns and awareness.
- Any other duties as required from time to time
What experience do I need?
- Minimum three years’ experience in communications or journalism.
- A mix of public awareness, corporate and consumer communications experience is desirable.
- Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills.
- Project management expertise with ability to work on multiple projects, meet deadlines and secure results.
- An effective negotiator, skilled diplomat and a team player.
- Ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities and maintain a professional approach.
- Ability to work on own initiative and consult where appropriate.
- Highly creative
Do I need a qualification?
- Third level degree or equivalent professional qualification.
- IT literate. Web technology and content management knowledge would be an advantage.
Additional information:
Full driving licence and access to the use of a suitably insured car essential.
Link to job description: Communications Executive.pdf
Barnardos is an equal opportunity employer.We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.
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Application Procedure
Download your application form
Shortlisting will apply (please note, CVs are not accepted on their own, candidates must complete and submit our application form through Barnardos website).
Candidates who are moved to the 2nd stage of our Recruitment process are required to complete a medical questionnaire and the E-Vetting process. References will also be taken up at this stage.
Vacancy Details
LOCATION
Christchurch Square, Dublin 8
Employment Type
1 year, Specific purpose - Mat leave contract - Approx Jan 2027 - 30 hours over 5 days (Mon - Fri)
Salary
€40,104.74-€56,016.30(Full time 37hrs) €32,517.35-€45,418.62(Pro-rated 30hrs)
Contact Person
Closing Date
Interview Date
TBC