Communication Officer (Part-time)
AKU Society
Hours
Part-time 30 hours per week
Salary
£22,000 per year
About the Organisation
AKU Society is a pioneering patient support group and registered UK charity, run by patients, relatives, scientists, and doctors, to support patients and families affected by the rare and degenerative genetic disease called alkaptonuria (AKU). We are leading the way in demonstrating how rare disease patients can be empowered to take control of their condition and actively drive forward their healthcare, in partnership with medical professionals. Our mission is to transform the lives of AKU patients; through patient support, community building, and medical research.
About the role
You will play a vital role in shaping the voice of the AKU Society, raising awareness about AKU, and engaging with our diverse community of patients, families, researchers, and partners. Working remotely, you will collaborate closely with our small team to deliver impactful communications across digital, social, and print platforms.
Responsibilities
Content Creation & Management:
- Develop and manage engaging content for the AKU Society’s website, social media channels, newsletters, and other communication platforms.
- Write patient stories, blog posts, press releases, and updates on research and events.
Social Media & Campaigns:
- Plan and execute social media campaigns to raise awareness about AKU and the society’s activities.
- Monitor and respond to engagement on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Collaborate with patients and their families to share their experiences and insights.
- Build relationships with partners, researchers, and media outlets to amplify the charity’s message.
Event Support:
- Assist in the promotion and communication of events such as workshops, conferences, and fundraising initiatives.
- Support the creation of materials like event programs and presentations.
Fundraising Communications & Administration:
- Create compelling fundraising content, including appeals, donor updates, and thank-you messages.
- Support the administration of fundraising campaigns, including donor tracking and acknowledgment.
- Manage all aspects of the AKU Society contact database (licensed by eTapestry).
- Assist with research into and applications to trusts and foundations
Monitoring & Reporting:
- Track the performance of communication activities and provide regular reports on impact and engagement.
- Use analytics tools to measure and improve the effectiveness of campaigns.
Brand Management:
- Ensure all communications align with the AKU Society’s mission, values, and branding.
- Update and maintain consistency in messaging across all platforms.
Skills, Competencies & Experience
Qualifications & Experience:
- Proven experience in a communications, marketing, or related role, preferably in a charity or nonprofit setting.
- Knowledge of fundraising communications is desirable.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences.
- Strong knowledge of social media platforms and digital marketing strategies.
- Experience with content management systems and email marketing tools (Mailchimp).
- Familiarity with design tools (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) is a plus.
- Interest in healthcare, rare diseases, or patient advocacy is desirable.
Skills and Competencies:
- Creative and innovative thinker with an eye for impactful storytelling.
- Organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Proactive, self-motivated, and comfortable working independently in a remote setting.
- Strong interpersonal skills and empathy for the challenges faced by AKU patients.
Required Qualifications
- Undergraduate Degree
Compensation & Benefits
- Pension Contribution of 4%
- 25 days Annual Leave
- Plus 8 day bank holiday
Working locations
- Remotely working in Cambridge UK
How to apply
- Send an email to [email protected] with a CV and a cover letter by 27th January 2025 at 5 PM.
Interviews
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview