Senior Graphic Designer

Job title: Senior Graphic Designer
Grade: PO 1
Role code: EU60302
Status: Police Staff
Home Office code: Organisational Support

Main purpose of the role:

Ensure that the published work of Essex Police is communicated and presented to the force, members of the Essex Police & Crime Commission, and the public in an understandable, engaging and professional format and in a timely and cost effective manner.

Main responsibilities:

• Receive and analyse requests for graphic material, identifying full client requirements and the target audience, discussing, negotiating and influencing projects with each client, providing options, recommendations presenting ideas to the client as required and ensuring full compliance with corporate identity and external legal requirements, in order to clearly identify the individual requirements and deliver cost effect, impactive products that support force aims and objectives.
• Design a range of professional bespoke graphic material from concept through to final product, ensuring that the material meets the aims and objectives of the design request, it addresses the needs of the target audience and is delivered in the most suitable and cost effective media format, in order to support the delivery of a high quality effective communication and marketing service to the force.
• Create a wide range of diverse professional graphic/design and photographic material, which covers the full range of policy activity across the county, utilising a range of software and techniques including freehand work, building a library of approved force templates and images, which can be used in support of force communication and marketing activity, in order to provide high quality design products for the force.
• Maintain an up to date awareness and understanding of the capability of software packages and share this knowledge with other team members in order to provide a quality of service.
• Actively participate in the development and design of force campaigns, initiatives, communication and marketing strategies, both internal and external to the force, working with partnership agencies, organisations or government departments as required, in order to produce high quality material which assists with the achievement of force and partnership aims and objectives.
• Undertake specific design projects for Chief Officers or members of the Essex Police & Crime Commission as required, contributing to the creation and completion of communication and marketing material, and supporting major campaigns, initiative sand presentation events, in order to support high level, sensitive, corporate activity.
• Deliver advice to police officers and police staff at all levels within the Force in the use of desktop publishing and graphic design software and techniques, in order to improve skill levels, ensure corporate standards are adhered to and enhance the presentation of graphic material generally across the force.
• Manage and motivate team and individual performance, providing direction and leadership, participating in recruitment and selection, undertaking staff appraisals, addressing welfare, capability and discipline issues, advising on personal development, training and coaching, including the quality assurance, dip testing, assessment, allocation and throughput of work to enhance individual and team competencies, in order to maximise performance from individuals, enable a consistent high quality performance and ensure that a professional and efficient service is provided at all times.

September 2014

Necessary experience:

The post holder should be able to demonstrate professional communication skills with a broad and deep range of practical skills and experience including but not limited to content development, media relations, campaigning, filming and editing, media relations, advising senior management, crisis communications. The post holder will be either:

- a member of a professional body such as the Chartered Institute of Public Relations;

- qualified to degree level in a relevant subject (ie public relations, graphic design, film and tv production);

- a NCTJ or BJTC-qualified journalist;

- a professional with at least two years experience in a similar role.

The post holder will require an expert knowledge of current graphic design software applications and techniques, such as Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe illustrator and Acrobat Professional, Quark Express, Dreamweaver etc. They will have a technical background in graphic design with around 3 to 5 years relevant experience.

The post holder must be up to date with current trends and changes within the design profession. The post holder should have proven experience of the ability to understand complex and sensitive communication issues together with an appreciation of their potential impact upon the community.

The post holder will have excellent interpersonal, analytical, listening, presentation and communication skills both verbal and written in order to effectively liaise with internal and external clients when receiving requests and explaining proposed design solutions to the client.

The post holder will require the ability to advise senior managers, staff, police officers, partnership organisations and work groups on the correct format and brand to be used when promoting a campaign, presentation in support of the force strategies.

The post holder will require accuracy and attention to detail, analytical skills, enthusiasm, self-discipline, self-motivation, flexibility, patience, good organisation and prioritisation skills. The job requires a confident and self-assured individual. He/s have a practical approach to problem solving. Cultural and diversity awareness is vital as is the ability to prioritise work requests and deliver within demanding timescales.

It is essential that the post holder can work effectively under minimal supervision and contribute significantly to the success of the team.

Behaviours:

Analyse critically (level 2)

I ensure that the best available evidence from a wide range of sources is taken into account when making decisions. I think about different perspectives and motivations when reviewing information and how this may influence key points. I ask incisive questions to test out facts and assumptions, questioning and challenging the information provided when necessary. I understand when to balance decisive action with due consideration. I recognise patterns, themes and connections between several and diverse sources of information and the best available evidence. I identify when I need to take action on the basis of limited information and think about how to mitigate the risks in doing so. I challenge others to ensure that decisions are made in alignment with our mission, values and the Code of Ethics.

Collaborative (level 2)

I manage relationships and partnerships for the long term, sharing information and building trust to find the best solutions. I help create joined-up solutions across organisational and geographical boundaries, partner organisations and those the police serve. I understand the local partnership context, helping me to use a range of tailored steps to build support. I work with our partners to decide who is best placed to take the lead on initiatives. I try to anticipate our partners' needs and take action to address these. I do not make assumptions. I check that our partners are getting what they need from the police service. I build commitment from others (including the public) to work together to deliver agreed outcomes.

Deliver, support and inspire (level 2)

I give clear direction and expectations, helping others to understand how their work operates in the wider context. I identify barriers that inhibit performance in my teams and take steps to resolve these, enabling others to perform. I lead the public and / or colleagues, where appropriate, during incidents or through the provision of advice and support. I ensure the efficient use of resources to create the most value and the right impact within my areas. I keep track of changes in the external environment, anticipating both the short and long term potential implications for the Police Service. I motivate and inspire others to achieve their best.

Emotionally aware (level 2)

I consider the perspectives of people from a wide range of backgrounds before taking action. I adapt my style and approach according to the needs of the people I am working with, using my own behaviour to achieve the best outcome. I promote a culture that values diversity and encourages challenge. I encourage reflective practice among others and take the time to support others to understand reactions and behaviours. I take responsibility for helping to ensuring the emotional well being of those in my teams. I take the responsibility to deal with any inappropriate behaviours.

Innovative and open-minded (level 2)

I explore a number of different sources of information and use a variety of tools when faced with a problem and look for good practice that is not always from policing. I am able to spot opportunities or threats which may influence how I go about my job in the future by using knowledge of trends, new thinking about policing and changing demographics in the population. I am flexible in my approach, changing my plans to make sure that I have the best impact. I encourage others to be creative and take appropriate risks. I share my explorations and understanding of the wider internal and external environment.

Take ownership (level 2)

I proactively create a culture of ownership within my areas of work and support others to display personal responsibility. I take responsibility for making improvements to policies, processes and procedures, actively encouraging others to contribute their ideas. I am accountable for the decisions my team make and the activities within our teams. I take personal responsibility for seeing events through to a satisfactory conclusion and for correcting any problems both promptly and openly. I actively encourage and support learning within my teams and colleagues.

Values:

Impartiality (accredited)

I take into account individual needs and requirements in all of my actions. I understand that treating everyone fairly does not mean everyone is treated the same. I always give people an equal opportunity to express their views. I communicate with everyone, making sure the most relevant message is provided to all. I value everyone's views and opinions by actively listening to understand their perspective. I make fair and objective decisions using the best available evidence. I enable everyone to have equal access to services and information, where appropriate.

Integrity (accredited)

I always act in line with the values of the police service and the Code of Ethics for the benefit of the public. I demonstrate courage in doing the right thing, even in challenging situations. I enhance the reputation of my organisation and the wider police service through my actions and behaviours. I challenge colleagues whose behaviour, attitude and language falls below the public's and the service's expectations. I am open and responsive to challenge about my actions and words. I declare any conflicts of interest at the earliest opportunity. I am respectful of the authority and influence my position gives me. I use resources effectively and efficiently and not for personal benefit.

Public service (accredited)

I act in the interest of the public, first and foremost. I am motivated by serving the public, ensuring that I provide the best service possible at all times. I seek to understand the needs of others to act in their best interests. I adapt to address the needs and concerns of different communities. I tailor my communication to be appropriate and respectful to my audience. I take into consideration how others want to be treated when interacting with them. I treat people respectfully regardless of the circumstances. I share credit with everyone involved in delivering services.

Transparency (accredited)

I ensure that my decision-making rationale is clear and considered so that it is easily understood by others. I am clear and comprehensive when communicating with others. I am open and honest about my areas for development and I strive to improve. I give an accurate representation of my actions and records. I recognise the value of feedback and act on it. I give constructive and accurate feedback. I represent the opinions of others accurately and consistently. I am consistent and truthful in my communications. I maintain confidentiality appropriately.

Technical skills:

Budget Management (Level 3)

Checks and codes invoices and claims for payment, ensuring appropriate authorisation is evident and financial regulations are complied with before claims are processed. Can maintain commitment accounting system ensuring information is up to date and accurate. Capable of making payments into collection and deposit accounts and from imprest where applicable. Aware of budgetary constraints, familiar with and complies with finance and budget management standards and procedures detailed within the Force Financial Handbook and the Delegation of Financial Authority.

Health and Safety (Level 4)

Has received Supervisor training and takes responsibility for the safety of directly subordinate staff and visitors. Understands the procedures in place for the safe storage of hazardous substances, fire precautions and evacuation. Resolves hazards or problems identified within roles or work environments. Undertakes skills passport assessments for new and existing staff. Re-assesses passport as and when new equipment/technology is introduced.Completes annual reviews of skills passports, training needs analysis.

Information Gathering and Analysis (Level 5)

Information gathered is sufficient, valid and reliable and is consistent with the organisation's values, policies, guidelines and procedures. Able to deal with situations when information is insufficient, contradictory or ambiguous. Able to organise and interpret information so that conclusions can be drawn.

Information Management and Technology (Level 4)

Can conduct basic computer searches and can correctly interpret data generated. Can create and amend records, according to role requirement. Knows established rules and protocols. Understands impact of data quality, and is self-monitoring on data quality issues.

Knowledge of Police Environment and Policy (Level 4)

Displays a general appreciation of changes affecting the police service. Understands the inter-relationships between the roles of the various Operational and Support activities, and how organisation structures and police systems work. Possesses a detailed understanding of working procedures, practices and policies relevant to the current role and the roles of subordinates and ensures that these are followed at all times. Is clear about Force goals and effectively contributes to local business plan objectives.

Management of Police Information (MOPI) (Level 4)

Full compliance with Level 3. Has successfully completed all standard relevant Information Management and Security training package(s). Accurate use of Government Security Classification (GSC). Ensures physical and digital records are stored with appropriate security relevant to the sensitivity of the documents and has working understanding of appropriate National Retention Schedules. Is able to quality assure own records management processes as well as those of any staff for whom they have supervisory responsibility. Is aware of where to seek further support in relation to Records management within force when necessary. If nominated as an Information Asset Assistant is familiar with the NPCC Information Asset Owners Handbook.

Office Technology (Level 4)

Demonstrates advanced skills in the use of one or more office software products Able to use these packages to enhance the quality or presentation of work required within the role. Manages data files and file structures. Provides on the job training and guidance to other staff in the use of specific or specialist software, if required. Familiar with established IT rules and protocols and shows a good understanding of data protection requirements.

Project Management (Level 4)

Capable of demonstrating a practical knowledge of project management principles and techniques. Able to define, plan and manage projects within a Department or Division. Recommends and agrees project objectives, timescales and budget with the appropriate senior officer. Leads a small team from within the Department or Division. Able to identify resources required and their appropriate role and skills. Monitors costs and milestones and proactively reports exceptions to next tier management. Has some knowledge of risk management Able to deliver small projects on time and within budget. Understands the principles of benefits management.

Research Techniques (Level 3)

Conducts basic research work, usually with a relatively narrow focus and is able to find out all the required relevant information or data for the task set. Can present findings in a logical and easily understood manner.

Risk Management (Level 3)

Demonstrates an awareness of personal risk management issues, challenges or difficulties likely to affect the post holder in the execution of their duties. Able to anticipate risks likely to affect their work and knows how to communicate the likelihood and possible impacts of such events to line managers or supervisors.