What we need:
Our client, a busy local authority in the South East, is looking for a Engagement officer to work with their Major schemes delivery team, an excellent team working on a number of high profile schemes in the region, including the Transforming cities Fund (TCF) work in Southampton and Portsmouth.
 
What you will do:
This role presents an exciting opportunity to assist with the delivery of these transport schemes which are aimed at reducing reliance on car travel and increasing and improving infrastructure for public transport and cycling and walking.
The role sits within the Major Schemes Delivery Team and focuses on strong delivery communication skills to maintain high levels of public and political engagement, as well as high satisfaction ratings.
The Engagement Officer is required to take on this varied and responsible position in our friendly team and be a valued part of a highly reputable organisation. The successful candidate will assist in developing and maintaining effective close working relationships with internal contacts and external agencies, including Portsmouth City Council, Southampton City Council, police, transport operators, along with local stakeholders including district/borough/town/parish councils, schools, residents, business community and charities. Job
 
What you will need to succeed:
A willingness to be flexible and adaptable to undertake a variety of different engagement tasks
An ability to reliably follow
Ability to demonstrate a confident communication style
Ability to work effectively within project teams and to plan and align engagement activities across projects;
Ability to deal confidently and diplomatically at all levels with staff, elected members and the public
Portrays a positive and flexible approach to teamwork and demonstrates ability to work on own initiative
 
Activities will include:
Regular construction site meetings, team meetings taking minutes where necessary.
Assist with setting up and attendance at any public exhibitions, presentations, surgeries, meetings etc. that may be arranged prior and during the construction period.
Carry out customer liaison duties as required.
 
Detailed Responsibilities:
Support the planning, preparation and delivery of public and Member consultations and exhibitions events. Attend committee meetings, public meetings, and workshops.
Provide advice and actively engage with project stakeholders and reply to correspondence.
Maintain an awareness of Corporate and Departmental Equalities & Inclusion and Health & Safety procedures and apply them to the day-to-day job requirements
 
Essential Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
Interpersonal skills
Attention to detail
Client-facing skills with political awareness and sensitivity, understanding of corporate policies and strategies
Highly motivated with positive and constructive manner
Emotionally intelligent by adjusting style and approach to suit audience
A confident communicator
GCSE passes at grade C or above in Maths and English (or equivalent) Excellent communications skills both written and oral
Good IT skills and confident in using Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel and Sharepoint Desirable Qualifications,
 
Knowledge, Skills and Experience - Educated to degree level (or equivalent)
Significant demonstrable industry experience
 
Working conditions for the role: - Main work environment: Home and office based with site visits
Personal protective equipment: head, eyes body, feet and hands (hard hat, reflective clothing, safety boots, gloves, ear defenders and safety glasses)
Manual handling of exhibition stands and material on an ad-hoc basis
Display screen equipment: desktop PC and laptop
Role holder may be exposed to confidential information
Driving: pool vehicle and own vehicle for work purposes