RCHM Communications Officer - External and PR

The Communications Officer is responsible for leading the RCHM’s external voice — responding to news and developments in the wider world, managing public-facing communications, and ensuring that everything we share reflects the values and strategic direction of the organisation.

This role includes drafting statements, coordinating media responses, updating our external channels, and supporting campaigns that represent the profession and our members. The Communications Officer ensures that our messaging remains clear, consistent, and grounded in the principles that guide the RCHM.

Click below to access the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), onboarding materials, job description, and other documents related to this role.

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 RCHM External Comms Overview

  • The key priorities include strengthening RCHM’s presence in public and professional discourse, ensuring timely responses to relevant news items, and aligning all external messaging with the organisation’s strategic goals. This year also focuses on raising awareness of professional standards in herbal medicine and supporting campaigns that promote safe, responsible practice.

  • The Communications Officer reports directly to the CEO, with additional support and oversight from the Executive Committee as required. Strategic alignment is maintained through regular check-ins and collaboration with council leads on policy, strategy, and public engagement.

  • The Communications Officer oversees all external-facing communication channels. This includes the RCHM website, public statements, media responses, and social media accounts. They may also liaise with external organisations, journalists, or regulatory bodies on behalf of the RCHM when appropriate.

  • All public communications are crafted to reflect the RCHM’s commitment to professionalism, safety, education, and ethical practice in herbal medicine. Messaging is reviewed to ensure it aligns with strategic goals, reinforces the integrity of the profession, and represents the diverse voices within our membership.

External Communications & Public Engagement Officer

Draft Role Specification & Deliverables Framework

Purpose
The External Communications & Public Engagement Officer will ensure that the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM) communicates clearly, consistently, and professionally with the public, media, and external stakeholders. The role supports the CEO and President in shaping the RCHM’s public voice and enacting its strategic communications priorities.

Core Responsibilities

  • Draft and distribute press releases, statements, and responses to media enquiries.

  • Produce regular outward-facing content that explains the RCHM’s role and activities.

  • Work with the CEO and President to create communications aligned with strategy.

  • Maintain a log of external communications for oversight and transparency.

  • Ensure accuracy, professionalism, and accessibility across all external messaging.

Deliverables Framework

  • Routine outputs:
    – Press releases for significant RCHM activities, events, or policy updates
    – Regular public-facing copy (articles, website updates, campaigns)

  • Responsive outputs:
    – Timely responses to media enquiries (within 24 hours)
    – Crisis communications drafted within 4 hours of issue arising

  • Strategic outputs:
    – Communications that support advocacy, campaigns, and long-term goals
    – Quarterly report to Council on external communications activity

Reporting

  • Reports to: CEO

  • Works closely with: President and Council Officers

Skills & Experience

  • Strong writing and editing skills with ability to translate complex ideas for public audiences

  • Experience in communications, PR, or public affairs (healthcare or membership bodies desirable)

  • Proven ability to manage press/media relations and handle sensitive issues

  • Collaborative and confident, with ability to deliver under time pressure