Job Title: Senior Communications Manager - Public Affairs
Location: Hybrid | Dublin & Cork
Contract Type: 12-Month Fixed Term Contract
About the Role:
Morgan McKinley is working with a FMCG company who are looking to hire a Senior Public Affairs & Communications Manager in either Dublin or Cork on a 12 month contract, starting in August.
As Senior Public Affairs & Communications Manager your role is to lead public affairs and external communications strategies that build reputation, shape policy engagement, and support corporate objectives across Ireland. This is a high-impact role focused on navigating the political landscape, managing key stakeholder relationships, and delivering thoughtful, strategic communication.
The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of Irish government and policy environments, coupled with the ability to influence, advise, and manage across senior levels of business and public institutions.
Key Responsibilities:
Public Affairs Strategy & Execution
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Design and implement a public affairs strategy that aligns with the company's commercial and corporate priorities.
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Advise senior executives on policy developments, regulatory risks, and political engagement.
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Lead strategic public affairs initiatives, often managing multiple high-profile projects simultaneously.
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Foster and maintain strong working relationships with government departments, public agencies, trade associations, and policy stakeholders.
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Monitor political, legislative, and regulatory developments, offering timely insights and recommendations.
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Coordinate with external consultancies, manage agency relationships, and oversee relevant budgets.
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Develop policy positions on key legislative topics and ensure alignment across business units.
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Prepare briefing documents, consultation responses, and stakeholder messaging.
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Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver integrated communications and advocacy campaigns.
Corporate Communications
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Lead corporate messaging and brand positioning efforts, especially during high-impact moments.
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Support issue management and deliver clear, timely responses to media or stakeholder inquiries.
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Draft and manage media statements, internal announcements, and public-facing communications.
Skills & Experience
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5+ years' experience in communications, public affairs, government relations, or a related field.
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Strong working knowledge of Irish political systems and legislative processes.
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Proven ability to engage with senior-level stakeholders across government and business.
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Experience in media relations, including handling sensitive or crisis-related communications.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex topics.
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Confident managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Qualifications
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Bachelor's degree in Communications, Political Science, Public Affairs, Journalism, or a related field.
Desirable
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Background in retail, food, or consumer goods industries.
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Experience working in or with highly regulated environments.
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Demonstrated success in delivering high-quality outcomes under pressure.
