“New Executive must reboot economic policy” says Trade NI

(Left to Right): Stephen Kelly, CEO, Manufacturing NI, Sinead McLaughlin MLA, Colin Neill, CEO, Hospitality Ulster, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA, and Glyn Roberts, CEO Retail NI at Trade NI’s ‘Northern Ireland Economy – What Now?’ at The Long Gallery, Stormont.

Trade NI, the alliance between Hospitality Ulster, Manufacturing NI and Retail NI held the first major business event, ‘Northern Ireland Economy – What Now?’ at the Long Gallery, Stormont today.

The event was held to highlight the urgent and pressing issues felt by the business community, following the restoration of the Assembly, including the need to boost the Northern Ireland economy.

Addressed by the Chair and Vice Chair of the Economy Committee, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA and Sinead McLaughlin MLA, this was the first major policy presentation by the business groups to the newly restored Assembly.

MLAs and business leaders from across Northern Ireland were reminded of the key strategies that are required to rejuvenate the economy and to realise the global investment opportunities that exist for Northern Ireland, as laid out in Trade NI’s Vision 2030 document.  

The progressive economic proposals set out the key policy priorities, which have the potential to create 65,000 jobs and to ensure Northern Ireland has a developed economy. 

Trade NI, made up of the three largest sectors of industry and the majority of businesses in Northern Ireland, employing around 300,000 people collectively, stressed that the restored Executive must set out to:

• increase the productivity of the NI workforce;

• reduce the regulatory burden on businesses;

• increase the skills base;

• deliver a clear economic strategy for Northern Ireland. 

The reception at Parliament Buildings followed on from a series of high-level political engagements in September last year, which included the launch of Vision 2030 in Westminster with an audience including the Secretary of State and MPs from across the UK and a reception with the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson.  

In a joint statement, the representatives of Trade NI, Colin Neill (Hospitality Ulster), Stephen Kelly (Manufacturing NI) and Glyn Roberts (Retail NI) said: 

“Today at the NI Assembly, Trade NI has launched its big, bold, radical ten-year plan for the future of the Northern Ireland economy which we believe can provide the policy direction for the new Executive Programme for Government. We must break the cycle of limited economic growth and allow for potential investment to flow into Northern Ireland.” 

“The high cost of doing business in Northern Ireland, such as business rates must be immediately addressed by this Executive. It is a scandal that businesses in Northern Ireland pay the highest rates in the UK.”

“Our Vision 2030 document sets out a plan to reboot the Northern Ireland economy and for the potential to create 65,000 new jobs.”

“Providing an environment where business can thrive, and grow is imperative to the strength of our economy. Reducing the cost of doing business, reforming business rates, investing in our infrastructure, developing skills, increasing our productivity and finding innovative new ways of stimulating investment, revitalising our high streets and creating an economy, which can deliver for working families.”

“The new Executive Programme for Government needs to be more than just a deal between five parties and instead should also include the key partners in the economy, such as business, trade unions, local councils and the voluntary sector. We shouldn’t be seen as just consultees, but as essential partners in the delivery of prosperity for Northern Ireland.”

 Chair of the Economy Committee, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA said: 

“We welcome the Vision 2030 document as it represents the basis for engagement between the Executive and the business community on their concerns and priorities following the restoration of the Assembly under ‘New Decade, New Approach’ document.”

“Vision 2030 puts forward range of policies and proposals on key issues which aim to improve productivity and support economic growth.”

“The Committee for the Economy looks forward to engaging with Trade NI on the issues outlined in Vision 2030 and to develop the economic potential of the North.” 

Sinead McLaughlin MLA, Deputy Chair of the Economy Committee added:

“Trade NI is to be commended for developing this suite of economic ideas for the Executive to draw on as it shapes the next Programme for Government. Vision 2030 reflects the business community’s desire to hit the ground running and bring forward a number of ideas immediately.”

“At its meeting last week, the Economy Committee discussed how the regional economy encompasses all of Northern Ireland and any economic policies must be balanced for the whole region. Areas outside of Belfast like the North West also have vibrant retail, manufacturing sectors to sustain and grow.”

“The Economy Committee has highlighted that there are only two years left of this sitting Assembly, and we must use that to make an impact.”

Irish News Column from Colin Neill, Chief Executive of Hospitality Ulster: Tax on hard work and investment could put many out of business

Colin Neill, Chief Executive of Hospitality Ulster

Let’s be very clear. Businesses in the hospitality sector here are often the focal point of our cities, towns and villages. They tie the high street together; they are the central meeting places of many rural communities; the toast of the advertising campaigns of our tourist bodies; often referenced in speeches by our politicians when overseas; and on top of that, contributes £1.2billion a year to the economy.  

However, at the turn of the year the sector was served up a body blow on rates.

The recent Rates Reval and the subsequent published Draft List of Values in the Non-Domestic Rates revaluation by the Land and Property Services showed an expected sharp hike in rates for many businesses in the sector and put them in a precarious position.

The way business rates are calculated for the hospitality sector are completely out of kilter with other businesses and are a significant financial burden on top of ever-increasing costs that are squeezing margins and threatening to put many out of business.

The reality of all this is that some premises have seen their valuations increase by £100,000 or more, with one bar seeing its valuation increase from £28,000 to £251,000 - a nine-fold increase. Around 60 pubs have seen their NAV double or more as a result of the revaluation. We must ask, on what planet is this a sustainable way to calculate non-domestic rates in a sector that contributes so much annually to the economy?

The challenge by us at Hospitality Ulster to fix the antiquated system is due to the fact that the rating system is based on a ‘receipts and expenditure model’ to obtain a fictional rentable value, which is calculated from turnover - unlike other non-domestic rates calculations, which are based on actual rental value.

We continue to pay the highest business rates in the UK and are getting very little in terms of support.

We believe each of our members should contribute fairly to the non-domestic rating system, however when these costs are unfair or excessive it can have a very real impact on the ability of a business to continue as a going concern, leading to wider economic consequences.

Next week we will meet with the Department of Finance to raise the sector’s grave concerns about the methodology and the expected hike in rates. We will press the case with the Minister to make the changes necessary before it’s too late. We need to have a serious and urgent look at how a remedy can be brought forward in Northern Ireland as we enter a critical phase that could see some in the hospitality sector simply collapse under the strain of rising costs.

No longer can the hospitality sector be taken for granted. The irony is that hard work and investment is the very thing that could put many out of business. The Executive and Assembly has it within its gift to sort this and we call on them to sort it now.

Lisa Bryson, Partner, Employment and Immigration, Eversheds Sutherland offers advice to employers on Coronavirus

Lisa Bryson Partner, Employment and Immigration, Eversheds Sutherland Belfast

The rapid spread of the ‘Wuhan Coronavirus’ is now a global concern with the World Health Organization declaring a global emergency. You may be thinking that this will not have any effect here and I really hope you are right. However, at the time of writing, two cases have been confirmed in the UK. This is the reality we face, and businesses should be mindful of this.

Northern Ireland is closely linked to China. The Chinese community makes up the largest minority ethnic group in Northern Ireland and the business connections between the two countries are constantly evolving.

Ultimately, the world is a much smaller place and employers should consider what steps are necessary to protect their workforce, who they have a duty of care towards.

So, what are the key issues? These range from assessing the risks faced by staff whilst at work, and developing measures to control these while complying with the relevant laws and guidance; identifying how much flexibility in working arrangements is required to ensure business continuity and what special measures are needed to protect vulnerable employees.

Additional steps could include conducting a risk assessment to identify the likelihood of staff contracting the Coronavirus whilst at work and the appropriate measures to control that risk.

Businesses with global operations and staff who travel internationally on a regular basis will need to undertake a more detailed risk assessment than businesses whose employees are solely placed in Northern Ireland. By undertaking this assessment and regularly reviewing guidance, employers will be able to respond in a proportionate manner.

Another consideration for employers may include reviewing workplace policies such as office and personal hygiene, social distancing and the use of protective equipment.

Businesses might also need to adapt working arrangements to improve operational resilience in case of staff absences or demand for products or services. Initially, employers should assess the rights to require staff to work flexibly, redeploying them to different locations or asking them to perform alternative duties.

While it is hoped the virus will not spread further, if it does, employers should consider what special measures are required to protect vulnerable staff including those with impaired immunity, who are pregnant or those working abroad.

If staff seek additional flexibility or are indeed quarantined due to the effects of Coronavirus, businesses may owe contractual or statutory duties to accommodate these. In this instance, the employer’s ability to take action may depend on the extent to which it has implemented effective measures to address the risks posed. It is crucial that employers always behave in a proportionate, reasonable and consistent manner.

There are a lot of issues for companies to consider and the key is to plan ahead and show leadership at a critical time.

If this planning is effective, business will be well prepared to support staff and to maximise its resilience. Furthermore, by keeping abreast of government guidance, implementing contingency planning and adapting accordingly, the worst case scenarios can be avoided.

Manufacturing NI launches annual Leadership 'Anchor High' Summit

Frankie Devlin, KPMG, Joan Mulvihill, Siemens, Nigel Birney, Willis Towers Watson, Stephen Kelly, Manufacturing NI, John Mathers, Barclays, Mary Meehan, Manufacturing NI, Brian Dolaghan, Invest NI, and Harry Weir, Willis Towers Watson.

Manufacturing NI has launched the 2020 Leadership ‘Anchor High’ Summit taking place on 10th and 11th March at the Lough Erne Resort in Fermanagh.

The summit is the flagship event in the latest initiative from Manufacturing NI - Manufacturing Month 2020 – which has been backed by leading sponsors such as KPMG, Siemens, Willis Towers Watson, Barclays, and Invest NI.

The ‘Anchor High’ two-day summit will include a host of speakers which will include pioneering leaders with experience of industry such as:

• Liam McCaffrey, Chief Executive, Quinn Industrial Holdings

• Tom Hughes, Commercial Director, GT Exhaust

• Sarah Black-Smith, Head of Factory Operations, Siemens

• Professor Paul Maropoulos, Director, Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre of Northern Ireland

• Lee Collinson, National Head of Manufacturing, Transport and Logistics, Barclays

Attendees will expect to be challenged, inspired and have their mindset transformed through a series of insightful keynotes and reflective sessions, gaining insight into new workforce planning and models of operation that will redefine manufacturing. 

In attendance will also be several support organisations to promote live funding and collaborative opportunities. 

Chief Executive of Manufacturing NI, Stephen Kelly said:  

“After the uncertainty of Brexit, I think what's important for business leaders is just to get back to what you're there for and what the essence of your business is about.  Our summit will give manufacturing leaders the chance to explore and to share best practice, build relationships with others facing or beating similar challenges from workforce planning to culture, leadership and diversity. It’s a chance to challenge themselves and others just like them.

“Manufacturers around the globe are transforming thanks to new technological advances and shifting sales channels which are reshaping the competitive landscape.  Delegates will hear about these opportunities from real company case-studies and industry experts.” 

For more information or to book a place, please visit www.anchorhighsummit.com.  Early booking is advisable as places are restricted. 

Brown O’Connor Communications Weekly Look Ahead / Week Commencing 3 February 2020

Forward Look

• Foyle MLA, Raymond McCartney will step down from the Assembly. A selection convention to replace the Sinn Féin MLA will take place on Saturday. Possible replacements include outgoing MEP Martina Anderson, former MP Elisha McCallion and Fiachra McGuinness, son of the late Martin McGuinness.

• A legislative programme will be brought forward to the Assembly before 11 February. Some bills will relate to the issues highlighted in the ‘New Decade, New Approach’ document – as yet, they are still to be allocated to relevant government departments.

• The Budget Bill is to be brought in front of the Assembly in February. The UK Budget takes place on 11 March.

• 11 Bills are expected to begin their legislative passage through the Assembly, before the Summer.

• The post Assembly hiatus Programme for Government, is presently being formed. The Programme for Government team will be headed up by Chris Stewart with work needing to be done to translate the ‘New Decade, New Approach’ issues into the Programme. Ministers are currently inputting into this process and a multi-year budget is being formed according to Head of Civil Service, David Sterling.

• The process to replace Tim Losty, Head of the Northern Ireland Bureau in Beijing, is underway. Tim remains in post at present.

• The proposed Brexit Sub-Committee set up by The Executive Office will meet on Tuesday 4 February. This will be chaired by the First and Deputy First Minister. All Executive parties will be represented and a range of business and trade bodies will be called to give evidence and work with the Committee.

• It has also been highlighted that work is underway to re-establish meetings with the British-Irish Council and the North-South Ministerial Council.

• The First and the Deputy First Minister are expected to give oral evidence to the Committee for the Executive Office next week.

• The timeline to replace David Sterling, Head of the Civil Service has yet to begin. It is understood that no timeline has been agreed but that the First and Deputy First Minister will begin to shape the process soon, ahead of Sterling’s planned departure in August 2020.

• Jim Allister’s Private Member’s Bill entitled “Functioning of Government (Misc Provisions) Bill will be introduced in the Assembly on Monday 3 February. Second Stage Debate is expected in the next few weeks.

• The Commission on Flags, Identity, Culture and Tradition is set to meet in early March.

• Justice Minister Naomi Long is expected to bring domestic abuse legislation through the Assembly.

• Health Minister Robin Swann has said that the recommendations of the Hyponatremia Inquiry should be advanced. The department expects to have detailed policy proposals in relation to duty of candour and openness by the end of March 2020, which could be issued thereafter for public consultation.

• Richard Morgan has been named as the new presenter of BBC Radio Ulster programme, Inside Business.

• Trade NI will hold a lunchtime reception entitled - ‘Northern Ireland Economy – What Now?’ - in the Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings at 12 noon on Tuesday 4 February. Please RSVP if you would like to attend.

• Northern Ireland Questions in the House of Commons will take place on Wednesday 5 February at 11.30am.

• The Irish General Election will take place on Saturday 8 February.

• The Hospitality Ulster Top 100 Businesses Awards will take place on Wednesday 19 February in the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

• The 2020 Local Government Conference delivered by NILGA will take place on 20 February in the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Other Stories This Week

• Finance Minister Conor Murphy allocated over £40 million as part of the January monitoring round.

• The Migration Advisory Committee has reported back on its recommendations for immigration post-Brexit. Business leaders in Northern Ireland have expressed disappointment at the failure to recommend a unique salary threshold for Northern Ireland.

• Translink announced the purchase of three hydrogen-fuelled buses from Wrightbus. The £4 million investment is a first step towards investing in zero-carbon technology to combat climate change and improve air quality.

• The Department for the Economy announced extensions to the terms of office of board members of the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland. The tenures of Hilary Singleton, Billy Graham, John Kane and Maynard Mawhinney have been extended until September 2020.

• Michel Barnier visited Belfast this week. He met with Deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Economy Minister Diane Dodds. At an event in Queen’s University, he said that new checks on goods entering Northern Ireland from Great Britain are an indispensable consequence of the Brexit deal.

• Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn visited Stormont and met with representatives from the five main parties.

• Simon Hoare MP was re-elected Chair of the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee.

• David Tighe has been announced as the new Managing Director of Bauer Radio in Northern Ireland. He will begin this role in the Summer.

• Andrew Elliott has taken over as the new Head of the Northern Ireland Bureau in the United States.

Upcoming Key Political and Business Events

• 31 January, Brexit Day

• 4 February, ‘Northern Ireland economy – What now?’, Trade NI, Long Gallery, Stormont

• 8 February, Irish General Election

• 13 February, ‘Building up Belfast – What’s next?’ real estate event, Eversheds Sutherland, The Merchant, Belfast

• 13 February, NI Chamber & SONI Energy & Sustainability Forum, CREST, Enniskillen

• 14 February, DUP Business Breakfast, Castlereagh Golf Club

• 19 February, The Top 100 Hospitality Businesses Awards, Hospitality Ulster, Crowne Plaza, Belfast

• 20 February, Local Government Conference & Exhibition, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast

• 6 – 7 March, Alliance Party Conference, Belfast

• 11 March, UK Budget

Consultations

• Consultation on Regulation of Gambling in Northern Ireland Department for Communities. Deadline 21 February.

• A consultation on same-sex religious marriage and conversion entitlements in Northern Ireland Northern Ireland Office. Deadline 23 February.

• Draft Consultation and Engagement Framework Belfast City Council. Deadline 2 March.

• DAERA Innovation Strategy 2020-2025 Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. Deadline 5 March.

• Energy Strategy – Call for Evidence Department for the Economy. Deadline 20 March.

• Belfast Resilience Strategy Belfast City Council. Deadline 10 April.

Lisa Bryson, Partner, Employment and Immigration, Eversheds Sutherland comments on the outbreak of Coronavirus

Lisa Bryson, Partner, Employment and Immigration, Eversheds Sutherland

Commenting on the outbreak of Coronavirus, Lisa Bryson, Partner, Employment and Immigration, Eversheds Sutherland in Belfast said:

“Employers with an international footprint should review the World Health Organisation’s guidelines on a regular basis, particularly if employees travel with work or have plans to holiday in China.  The fact that the outbreak of Coronavirus in China has reportedly killed over one hundred people so far should not be simply be ignored by employers in Northern Ireland.  The virus has now been confirmed in the US, Thailand, Japan and South Korea and so, it is important that employers closer to home also consider any potential risk to employees.”

“This is not at swine flu or SARS level yet, and indeed hopefully it will not reach pandemic levels.“

“We do however, live in a connected global business environment and the world really is a lot smaller now. People based in Northern Ireland travel regularly on business and interact with others who also travel internationally on a regular basis. It will be important for employers to take any advice provided by the World Health Organisation into account over the next few weeks and months. The Coronavirus outbreak should also prompt businesses to consider whether or not travel to impacted parts of the world, is really necessary at the moment.”

“While it appears there is currently a low risk to workers in Northern Ireland, employers should consider reviewing planned business travel arrangements and discussing any foreign holiday arrangements of staff so as to try and reduce any potential risk of spreading the virus.”

Statement from Hospitality Ulster on the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) report published this morning

Reacting to the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) report published this morning Colin Neill, Chief Executive, Hospitality Ulster said:

“We are still in the process of digesting the significant level of detail in the latest report. From what we see so far, it does not make for great reading for the hospitality sector in Northern Ireland.”

Colin Neill, Chief Executive Hospitality Ulster

“Once again, there seems to be a failure to take into consideration the unique set of circumstances here. Although we do welcome the reduction in the salary threshold, it remains too high, not NI specific, with the skills bar set to a height that is prohibitive for a region which is expected to have 30,000 vacancies in the hospitality sector by 2024. Soft skills are a vital element of the success of the Northern Ireland hospitality and tourism offer and our fear is that they have largely been ignored in this context. We call on the Advisory Committee to give urgent re-consideration due to our distinctive economic position.”

“The hospitality sector in Northern Ireland is hugely reliant on workers from overseas and we have some grave concerns about what the future may bring. There is real danger of negative impacts on the sustainability of a sector of the economy which has significant growth potential. It already contributes £1.2billion per annum, but that could change.”

“We do welcome the acknowledgement in the report which states that the situation of Northern Ireland is unique as the only part of the UK with a land border with the EU and a labour market more distinct from the rest of the UK. We note that special consideration could be given to Northern Ireland especially if it comes to have a different relationship with the EU compared to the rest of the UK.”  

“We will be examining the report in much more detail in the coming days to assess where our important sector sits.”

Manufacturing NI launches Manufacturing Month to take place this March

Diane Dodds MLA, Minister for the Economy with Stephen Kelly, Manufacturing NI, Chief Executive launching Manufacturing Month set to take place this March.

A major new initiative has been launched which will showcase the strength and excellence of Northern Ireland’s manufacturing and engineering sector.

Manufacturing Month NI, led by Manufacturing NI, will run for the entire month of March. A series of events, business breakfasts, seminars, workplace tours, and the flagship annual Anchor High leadership summit will be held across Northern Ireland to highlight local manufacturing success stories, address major challenges as we enter the new decade, and inspire the next generation of manufacturers and engineers. A visit to England is also scheduled to tour Siemens’ Digital Factory in Congleton, and the Advanced Manufacturing Centre UK in Sheffield.

Sponsored by KPMG, Siemens, Willis Towers Watson, Barclays, and Invest NI, Manufacturing Month NI will bring together industry leaders, politicians and policy experts, young people and schools, and other business leaders to celebrate manufacturers and engineers, and explore and discuss the challenges which face the industry in Northern Ireland.

Diane Dodds MLA, Minister for the Economy, said:

“I commend Manufacturing NI for this new initiative which celebrates one of Northern Ireland’s most vital sectors. Northern Ireland has a long and proud history of manufacturing and engineering brilliance. Manufacturing Month NI will highlight the immense talent of the local sector. By supporting innovative initiatives like Manufacturing Month NI, we are showcasing the best and brightest in one of our most important industries.”

Stephen Kelly, Chief Executive, Manufacturing NI said:

“We are very pleased to be launching the inaugural Manufacturing Month NI, taking place this March. The manufacturing sector in Northern Ireland is the foundation of our regional economy. Manufacturing Month is a celebration of the great people, in great local companies, making great products used at home and around the world. From food processing and pharmaceuticals to aeronautical technology and new, emerging tech like AI and machine learning, Northern Ireland punches well above its weight when it comes to producing world-class products and services.”

Stephen Kelly and Mary Meehan from Manufacturing NI

“This new initiative not only celebrates the people who make our manufacturing sector the world leader that it is but will create a legacy and a pathway for the next generation of sector leaders. A key feature of Manufacturing Month NI will be a major outreach and engagement programme with schools and regional colleges, focused on promoting the sector to young people, developing the crucial skills they need as they enter the industry.”

“We hope to see as many companies as possible across the length and breadth of Northern Ireland get involved with Manufacturing Month NI. We are keen to highlight new products, new initiatives, workplace tours, business expansion, and everything else in between to showcase the strength and quality of our local manufacturing sector.”  

BELFAST FILM COMPANY BACK AT SUNDANCE WITH NEW DOCUMENTARY

(From Left to Right): Corey Russell, Producer, Eimhear O’Neill, Producer, Fine Point Films, Alison Ellwood, Director, Belinda Carlisle, lead singer, The Go-Go’s, Trevor Birney, Producer, Fine Point Films

Belfast based Fine Point Films will premiere a new documentary on Friday evening at the world’s most prestigious film festival, Sundance.

The Go-Go’s tells the story of the most successful all-female band of all time. With their roots in the LA punk scene, the band included Charlotte Caffey (lead guitar & keyboards), Belinda Carlisle (lead vocals), Gina Schock (drums), Kathy Valentine (bass) and Jane Wiedlin (guitar & vocals).

Underpinned by full access to The Go-Go’s, this candid archive-rich biography assesses the group’s place in pop history and examines the feisty personalities and dynamics behind their rise, fall and numerous reincarnations. Until this film, there has never been a serious appraisal of The Go-Go’s talents or achievements – as musicians, groundbreakers, but even more so, as survivors.

The Go-Go’s

The Go-Go’s rose to fame following the release of their 1981 debut album, “Beauty and the Beat,” a collection of infectious tracks with huge hooks. Locked at #1 on the Billboard charts for six consecutive weeks, “Beauty and the Beat” was one of the most successful debut albums of all time, featured the hits “Our Lips Are Sealed” (one of Rolling Stone’s “Top 100 Pop Singles’) and “We Got the Beat” and resulted in a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist.

Almost 40-years since the release of “Beauty and the Beat”, the Go-Go’s remain the only all-female band, who played all their own instruments and wrote their own songs, to have a number one album.

The news of the return to Sundance for Fine Point Films follows on from the World Premiere of ‘GAZA’ last year  - the critically acclaimed documentary on life under siege in Gaza, directed by Garry Keane and conflict photographer Andrew McConnell, and co-produced by Fine Point Films Brendan Byrne and Trevor Birney.

Trevor Birney, Fine Point Films said:

“Going to Sundance twice in consecutive years is truly something special for us at Fine Point Films. Last year was a major moment for us, but to be back so soon with ‘The Go-Go’s’ is phenomenal. To be the first production company on the island of Ireland to do this is down to the hard work and dedication of the entire team and the talent of the producers that we have here.”

“The Go-Go’s story is one that will inspire. The film showcases a rich catalogue of music, but also the darker side of success and the struggles they encountered as one of the first ever all-female bands faced with fame, fortune and everything that it brought with it.”

Job Vacancy: Client Executive - Public Affairs & Corporate Communications, Brown O'Connor Communications

Job Specification – Client Executive (February 2020)

Position: Client Executive (Public Affairs/Corporate Communications)

Salary: £Competitive (Full-Time Role)

Based: Adelaide Street, Belfast City Centre

The Person

Brown O’Connor Communications is seeking a Client Executive to work in the areas of Public Affairs and Corporate Communications.

This is an exciting and demanding entry level role within a small company requiring a resilient individual with emerging leadership qualities to join the team. 

You will have a deep interest in politics, business and the media and have a developing understanding of the role that public affairs, media relations and stakeholder relations plays.

Once you join the Brown O’Connor team, you’ll be signed up as a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations and enrolled on the Continuous Professional Development programme.

About Brown O’Connor Communications 

Brown O’Connor is an ambitious and trusted communications consultancy based in Belfast City Centre. We help our clients gain impact and outcomes through specialist insight and influence with decision makers. 

We have a growing track record for managing and delivering complex communications programmes for some of the UK and Ireland’s leading businesses, professional services, charities, trade bodies, interest groups and public-sector organisations.

Find out more here: www.brownoconnor.com

Criteria

Third Level Degree or equivalent in the preferred areas of Communications, Law, Politics, Business, Social Science or Humanities.  

Have a strong interest is the news agenda, particularly political and business news.

Knowledge of government institutions and NI politics. 

Possess strong writing and editing skills with ability to write attention-grabbing media material, client correspondence and reports.

Expected to attend events for client and networking purposes.

Willing to work evenings and weekends as required by client activity. 

Strong initiative, leadership skills and work ethic.

Ability to hustle to make things happen.

Understanding of what makes social media content engaging.

Desired Criteria

Clean driving licence.

How to Apply:

To apply, please send a cover letter and C.V. to Brown O’Connor Communications stating ‘Brown O’Connor CE’ in the subject line to hello@brownoconnor.com by Monday 17th February at 5pm.