Purpose of the Role
The Media and Communications Officer will lead and deliver a modern, dynamic communications strategy that reflects Rowing Ireland’s position as one of Ireland’s number one high-performance NGBs. This role will be responsible for developing and delivering all external (public affairs) and internal communications, building our digital profile, elevating awareness of Rowing Ireland and its initiatives and delivering high-quality impactful coverage across all areas of the organisation.
The successful candidate will work closely with all major stakeholders across the rowing community, especially our affiliated clubs and our high-performance team to promote the sport across the island of Ireland.
Key Responsibilities
Communications Strategy
Develop and implement a modern, integrated communications strategy for Rowing Ireland including both internal and external messaging.
Ensure consistent messaging, brand identity and tone of voice across all channels.
Lead and champion internal communications across Rowing Ireland, including staff, board and volunteers of the organisation.
Enhance the reputation of Rowing Ireland and ensure it is presented authentically as a modern, ethical and effective organisation to its stakeholders.
Promote Ireland’s high-performance athletes and teams, especially Olympic and Paralympic-level rowers.
Ensure all areas and disciplines of the sport are promoted including Flatwater rowing, Coastal rowing, Indoor rowing, Club and grassroots initiatives
Assist with the compilation of internal and external documentation, such as the Annual Report and Strategic Plans
Traditional Media Management
Track all relevant coverage of Rowing Ireland via traditional media outlets (e.g. press, TV, radio) and ensure key RI personnel (e.g. CEO, Board) are apprised of relevant matters;
Prepare press releases, features, event reports to highlight and promote all aspects of the sport.
Maintain and build relationships with national and local media, to increase coverage and exposure of the sport.
Manage day-to-day relationships with any broadcast and digital partners.
Digital Social Media Management
Manage and grow all Rowing Ireland social media platforms (e.g. Meta, YouTube, LinkedIn).
Maintain and update the Rowing Ireland website with timely and engaging content that is always consistent with the values, brand identity and tone of voice of the organisation
Create high-quality multimedia content (video, photography, written features) and where resource allows/capacity requires co-ordinate contractors and contributors to further enhance content quantity and quality.
Media Event Coverage
Organise key media events related to all activities across the rowing calendar, e.g. High Performance, Coastal, National Championships, Season launches etc.
Where required, travel internationally with high-performance teams to cover regattas and major competitions.
Travel throughout Ireland to cover Irish championships and other local major events.
Liaise with key media outlets and manage all event related press releases and interviews.
Deliver real-time updates and storytelling during events.
Assist with stakeholder engagement, sponsorship visibility, and partner communications.
Key Requirements – Person Specification
Essential
A third level qualification in a related discipline and / or relevant communications or media experience.
Strong writer and communicator with high levels of accuracy, judgement and attention to detail.
Effective interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships across a wide range of stakeholders.
Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively to tight deadlines in a fast-paced, changing sports environment.
Proactive and resourceful, with sound judgement and the ability to identify and escalate issues appropriately.
Confident IT skills, including Microsoft Office and proficiency with digital CRM and all social media platforms.
Mandatory
Full, clean driving licence.
Valid passport.
Availability to travel nationally, internationally and work weekends as required.
Desirable
Experience in sports communications and/or working with athletes.
Knowledge of rowing or endurance sports.
Passion and keen interest in sport
Personal Attributes
Creative and proactive, taking initiative
Highly organised and adaptable
Strong storyteller with attention to detail
Team player with a positive attitude
Comfortable working flexible hours, including weekends and travel
Applications for this role will close on Monday, the 20th of July 2026 at 5 PM
