This role requires an experienced communications professional who is a talented copy writer and who demonstrates high standards and accuracy across their work.

The role holder will lead on internal game communications, focusing on two-way communications between the RFU and key stakeholders. The primary focus of the role will be to drive player affiliation/registration through clear and engaging communications which explain the process and its benefits. The role holder will be responsible for developing the narrative and managing communications relating to the Platform for Rugby, Game Management System (GMS), data management and digital data content strategy.

Alongside being an integral member of the communications team, the role holder will work closely with a range of subject matter experts (SMEs) and stakeholders, including the Technology, Insights, CRM and Rugby Development teams, as well as Community Game Board (CGB) Constituent Body (CB) and club representatives. A key part of the job will be to ensure that those involved in playing, managing and running the community game are provided with timely, useful and engaging information to support them.

Accountabilities:

  • Develop and implement the communications plan to support the roll out of the Platform for Rugby and affiliation/registration processes.
  • Lead on communications relating to the RFU’s digital data content transformation strategy.
  • Provide content for and post on a variety of communication channels including Facebook, Twitter, web, email (working with the CRM team), Articulate and online portals.
  • Work alongside the Platform For Rugby engagement lead to manage and provide information to a range of GMS User Groups.
  • Liaise with Rugby Development Heads of Function to create 3-monthly communications plans covering the range of activity within the community game.
  • Publish and manage the operational delivery of the community communications calendar for internal staff, CGB and CB reference.
  • Provide advice to SMEs on messaging, tone and narratives relating to communication updates from their specialist areas, ensuring information is communicated efficiently and appropriately to different audiences.
  • Draft, edit, proof-read key communications from the RFU to stakeholders, including RFU Council Members, CGB members, clubs, CB, schools, universities and players.
  • Communication updates include, but are not limited to, player welfare and training programmes, governance and regulation information, grant applications, club webinars, competition updates and facilities information. 
  • Actively collaborate with colleagues to contribute to the development and delivery of the current strategic, business and operational plans.
  • Act as an ambassador for, and promote the best interests of the RFU, including the promotion of the RFU core values and BACK culture.
  • Undertake such other duties as may be required from time to time as are consistent with the responsibilities of the post and the needs of the organization.

Person Specification

The skills and attributes outlined in this description are not exhaustive and we welcome candidates who can bring different relevant experiences to the role

Qualifications, skills & experience:

Essential:

  • A proven track record in a similar customer-focused communications role, demonstrating an ability to disseminate information quickly, accurately and effectively.
  • Excellent written and proof-reading skills, high standards and a keen eye for detail.
  • Ability to process a significant amount of information quickly and to distil this information into concise, easy to understand summaries for players, administrators and volunteers.
  • Autonomous, comfortable working independently, as well as collaborating with the wider team.
  • Expertise in delivering the right message and engaging content at the right time, tailored to the relevant audience (for example, RFU Council Members, Constituent Body representatives, club volunteers, coaches, referees, players.)
  • A team player who is personable and collaborative.
  • An organised, forward planner with proven time management and prioritisation skills.
  • Ability to multi-task and meet tight deadlines when required in a fast-paced environment.
  • Committed to driving forward inclusion in your role and day-to-day behaviours.

Desired:

  • Knowledge of online technology and database management systems, ideally in a sporting context.
  • A good understanding of the structure of the community game in rugby union in England.
  • A sound knowledge of rugby union.
  • A passion for digital content and data and the benefits it can provide to support the growth of rugby union in this country.
  • An ability to develop and maintain partnerships internally and externally with the ability to influence upwards and with peers.
  • Knowledge of Photoshop or Canva and competency in video editing an advantage.

Additional Information:

  • All role holders must maintain an appropriate standard of confidentiality. Any disclosures of confidential information (including personal information kept on computer or other media) made unlawfully outside the proper course of duty will be treated as a serious disciplinary offence
  • The role description, person specification, job level and job title may be subject to change at the discretion of the RFU and under business developments. Any changes will be communicated to the role holder as appropriate
  • If you are a trans candidate applying for a job that requires a DBS check, please reach out to recruitment@rfu.com or directly to our safeguarding team (safeguarding@rfu.com) to use the confidential sensitive application route. This will provide applicants with the choice not to have any gender or name information disclosed on their DBS certificate.
  • During your application, we will ask questions about your identity. This information is considered highly confidential and will not be seen by hiring managers. You can find out more about why we ask these questions here.
  • Please submit an ANONYMISED CV as part of your application.


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