Communications Officer – Lost Woods of the Low Weald and Downs

The Communications Officer has a key role to play in planning and delivering communications for the Lost Woods of the Low Weald and Downs project. The Communications Officer will create and deliver the annual communications plan, working closely with partners to promote activities and events, write, edit, co-ordinate and publish content across various channels, including the website, social media, press, and print and online marketing materials. They will work with external suppliers to build and launch a new website, and plan and implement communications and marketing campaigns, while progressively improving organisational understanding of what works for different audiences. They will also look to maximise opportunities to promote NLHF’s funding and the support from National Lottery players.

The Role:

• Field enquiries from all stakeholders including journalists, politicians, partners and the general public including management of the Lost Woods email inbox.
• Create and distribute press releases and statements as needed.
• Work with partners to plan, create, manage and update communications channels including website, social media accounts, email, press etc.
• Plan and create multi-media communications materials and campaigns including films to support projects.
• Working with partners and designers, produce, edit and distribute updates and materials for external and internal audiences.
• Provide communications support for project partners and campaigns.
• Work with partners to promote and showcase project activities and events.
• Provide creative, editorial and operational support for communications projects and report on progress.
• Ensure National Lottery Heritage Fund /National Lottery Player support is promoted through project communications and report on results.
• Ensure consistent branding is used by all partners.
• Work with partners to develop positive relationships to successfully manage project-wide communications.
• Act as a brand champion for Lost Woods amongst internal and external stakeholders and partners.
• Support with project legacy opportunities, resources and distribution of assets.

The Candidate:

• Excellent digital skills, including managing social media and website pages and experience of content management systems.
• Proven ability to plan, write and edit copy for different audiences.
• Experience working with external suppliers such as designers, film makers and web developers.
• Able to work remotely, independently and as part of a geographically dispersed team.
• Able to work collaboratively across multiple internal and external teams.
• Experience working on previous partnership projects.
• Experience of handling media enquiries and generating regional press coverage.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills including excellent attention to detail and effective time management.
• Excellent proof reading, copywriting and editing skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with different teams and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrable experience of managing a diverse workload; being able to prioritise tasks and work under pressure.
• Experience working in the not-for-profit and/or environment/conservation/heritage sectors.
• Live within the Lost Woods project area or nearby in Sussex.
• A full driving licence and ability to undertake travel across the project area to undertake site visits and meetings.

Benefits & Wellbeing:

Joining our team means you’ll be a big part of tackling environmental and climate issues. We take good care of our staff, offering support and training opportunities. We also offer:

• Enhanced Employer Pension
• Life Assurance
• Flexible & Hybrid Working Options
• Generous Annual Leave
• Enhanced Parental Pay
• Employee Assistance Programme

About Us:

The Woodland Trust is the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity and is dedicated to creating a world where trees and woods thrive for both people and nature. Our mission involves engaging and inspiring individuals to contribute toward tackling the nature and climate crisis through the protection, restoration, and creation of essential woodland habitats.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion:

To achieve our vision of a world where woods and trees thrive for people and nature, we need to better reflect society and the communities we work in. All people, no matter their background, identity, ability, or circumstance, should benefit from trees.

People of colour and disabled people are currently under-represented across the environment and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we particularly encourage you to apply. Please contact us to discuss any additional support or adjustments you may need to complete your application.

Application Advice:

For fairness we keep our candidates’ personal details hidden from the hiring managers, we do not ask for your CV at application stage OR so they do not see your CV until shortlisting is completed. Make sure that you answer the Application Questions to show your relevant skills and passion for the role.

Acceptable Use Policy – Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We understand that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support their job applications-for example, to help structure or edit written responses. We welcome the use of AI in this way, particularly where it helps improve accessibility, such as for neurodivergent applicants. However, we ask that any information submitted reflects your own experience, skills and understanding. During interviews, candidates are expected to respond independently without the use of AI tools. If you require any adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please contact [email protected].

First Stage Interviews will be held on 13/3/26 via Microsoft Teams.