Spokesperson for the Council Member

What will you be doing?

In this role, you will work to provide the best possible support to the alderman. You will do this in collaboration with your fellow spokespersons and alderman’s advisors.

As a spokesperson:

• You will coordinate press relations and oversee communications across the entire portfolio of one or two aldermen;
• You manage all press relations, build relationships with the media, and develop your own internal network;
• Ensure that the aldermen have the right information about what’s happening in the (social) media and create relevant content for our own social media channels;
• You advise the aldermen—both when asked and on your own initiative—on media relations, write speeches, and prepare them for public appearances.
• Take this opportunity to shine a spotlight on Arnhem and the key issues outlined in the coalition agreement.

You will be working intensively on the themes of culture, green spaces, climate adaptation, sustainability, energy transition, urban development, and land-use planning. Arnhem faces a wide range of challenges in these areas. The municipality’s role in this will also become even more important and active in the coming years—as a spokesperson, your ambition is to ensure that the solutions the alderman has in mind actually reach the people they are intended for. That they see, hear, and feel that politics is there for them. Words matter.

Who are we?

Together with the alderman’s advisor and administrative assistant, you will form a close-knit team supporting the alderman. This team works closely together and is involved in everything related to the alderman’s portfolio.

You will be part of the Administrative Support and Communications Department, where you will work alongside a team of spokespersons who each support one or more aldermen. The team consists of energetic professionals who are always there for one another. They are not afraid to speak up, share information, and cover for one another. As a spokesperson, you will also collaborate with communications advisors, online specialists, and subject-matter experts.

What do we offer you?

Based on a 36-hour workweek, the City of Arnhem offers the following:

• A competitive gross monthly salary in pay grade 12, ranging from €4,447 to a maximum of €6,103;
• A 12-month employment contract with the intention of establishing a long-term working relationship;
• 144 statutory vacation hours for each calendar year of full-time employment;
• 17.05% flexible spending allowance in addition to your salary;
• An individual career budget of €500 per year;
• Opportunities for personal development and career advancement through our comprehensive training programs;
• A laptop and a phone;
• In Arnhem, we have a hybrid work arrangement: you have the freedom to alternate between working from home and working in the office.

We have listed our entirebenefits packagefor you.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for an experienced spokesperson with a broad understanding of social issues who grasps what is happening at the local, provincial, and national levels and the opportunities this presents for Arnhem. You are an exceptional writer, and news makes your heart race. You have an unerring instinct for what is newsworthy and know how to convey that through various channels. As a spokesperson, you advise on the communication aspects of often complex topics with a high risk of reputational damage. This requires a keen political and administrative instinct. You know when (administrative) coordination is needed and you enjoy working in an administrative environment. You can handle unexpected developments and adapt flexibly. With your knowledge of the media and your network within journalism, you are eager to contribute to society and the public interest.

What else do you bring to the table?

• Relevant work experience, preferably as a journalist, spokesperson, or strategic communications advisor;
• You work meticulously, and when things get chaotic, you’re the one who keeps everything under control. During crises, you remain flexible and calm, and you set priorities;
• You’re bold, take the initiative, are curious, and love to draw inspiration from what’s happening around you;
• If necessary, you offer a counterargument. Drawing on your knowledge, analysis, and experience, you challenge others with constructive advice.
• You inspire your colleagues and enjoy sharing your experiences. You’re also able to step in for fellow spokespersons when they’re unavailable.

Where will you be working?

With over 164,000 residents, Arnhem is the 12th-largest municipality in the country. The city’s diversity is what makes it who it is. Arnhem is a municipality where urban dynamism, a natural living environment, and economic strength reinforce one another. We have a rich history and are the capital of the province of Gelderland. The municipal organization employs approximately 1,100 dedicated and enthusiastic staff members who work hard every day for the city, its residents, visitors, businesses, and institutions.

How do you apply?

Are you as excited as we are? Apply by November 6 using the application button. You’ll hear from us by November 11 regarding the next steps, such as an invitation to an interview. The interview will take place on November 15 between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Can you mark this date on your calendar?

Do you have any questions?

For questions regarding the job description, please contact Jinny Biesot, Head of Administrative Support, Communications, and the Executive Office, at +31 655 116 998. For questions regarding the recruitment and selection process, please contact Lars van Boxel, recruiter, at +31 631 111 4802.

The City of Arnhem works for and with its residents to create a diverse and inclusive city: a city where everyone is welcome and can be their true selves. To achieve this, we also need an inclusive organization with a diverse workforce where no one is excluded. We want to attract and retain talented individuals with their unique backgrounds, because we are convinced that diversity strengthens us. That is what we need to become that diverse and inclusive city. So feel welcome at the City of Arnhem, no matter who you are or what your life circumstances may be.