Head, Communications

Situation in Organisation

N+1 Reporting to the Corporate Communications Manager

N+2 Chief Administration & Personnel Officer

N+3 CEO

Accountabilities

The Head of Communications is accountable to develop and execute the company communications strategy and deliver the agreed Corporate Communications department objectives.

This role will lead the Communications team and deputise for the Corporate Communications Manager when required.

Job Dimensions

The Head of Communications is responsible for shaping and driving the internal and external voice of NOC, building an engaging image of the organisation by developing a steady flow of strategic content; positioning leadership; an enhancing the organisational culture, whilst promoting the organisational values and its people. This role is primarily (90%) focused on internal audiences.

The Head of Communications must maintain an effective level of literacy on business activities, midrange plans, its culture and the local energy sector.

The role requires the candidate to develop a broad network at all levels of the organisation and the know-how to reach a range of audiences using strategic content and communication.

Activities

1. Develop and provide strategic direction and leadership of the corporate communications strategy, processes and procedures in alignment with the company strategy and strategic priorities.
2. Provide support, advice and guidance to leaders on the manner in which messages and key activities are communicated to ensure consistency and clarity.
3. Develop a balanced mix of communication channels for communicating internally and externally, including the company intranet and website. Creating a strong flow of people-centred content to drive engagement and understanding amongst all audiences.
4. Contribute to increasing employee engagement through comprehensive communications plans to underpin employee engagement activity.
5. Evaluate the effectiveness of communication channels, content and processes to assess whether they are meeting the needs of the business, leadership and employees – acting on information to drive improvement.
6. Drive leadership visibility and positively position all ManCom members within the company.
7. Proactively develop and maintain a strong communications collaborative partnering model, ensuring detailed communication plans are in place for all internal partners and external activity.
8. Effectively manage all incoming media enquiries and seek opportunities for proactive press releases and coverage.
9. Manage a media monitoring process, keeping all executives informed of NOC and energy sector media coverage
10. Play an instrumental role in the timely delivery of the company Annual and Sustainability reports.
11. Maintain oversight and development of internal and external messaging and narrative to protect and enhance the NOC brand.
12. Contribute engaging content to the social media calendar.
13. Lead the communications team, ensuring high quality service provision through providing clear strategic direction and priorities.
14. Manage, motivate, coach and develop the team to agreed individual objectives and develop a culture of continuous improvement. With a particular focus on developing and upskilling national team members.
15. Work collaboratively with the Corporate Communication Manager to ensure the effective delivery of the Corporate Communications Strategy, alongside tactical day-to-day requirements.
16. Expertly prepare for and manage communications risks and opportunities; being ready to respond quickly and confidently during times of crisis and emergency.
17. Demonstrate leadership through personal high standards of quality and service, aligned to company values.
18. Approve budget spend with a DOA of USD50k.
19. Ensure a cost effective and sustainable approach in all activities.
20. Methodical in approach, strong planning skills
21. Establish strong interpersonal business relationships to facilitate work activities
22. Highly responsive, proactive and ability to see the bigger picture impact
23. Exceptional written, verbal and organisational skills.
24. Ability to work well and calmly under pressure across all disciplines in a large and complex organisation.

Competencies

Education

Degree in B.A/B.S in Business Administration, Marketing, journalism and Communications or studying towards a Master’s degree qualification in a similar discipline.

Certification

Experience

1. Over 10 years of experience in similar role, energy sector experience an advantage
2. A respected leader, with experience building and inspiring teams, coaching and developing team members
3. Experience building relationships with, advising and partnering with C-Suite executives
4. Proven track record in Communications
5. Experience in crisis communication
6. Excellent verbal and written skills in English. Arabic would be advantageous.
7. Self-motivated and committed to produce high quality work
8. Ability to work in a diverse multicultural environment