Back to search
Your new organisationSouthend-on-Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.
Working for Southend-on-Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovate environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work-life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.Your new roleWe are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Communications and Engagement to provide leadership and direction to the council's strategic communications and engagement service. This contract is offered on a full-time and temporary basis (3 months) with a hybrid working pattern.
As Head of Communications and Engagement, you will oversee the delivery of the council's corporate and digital communication functions, including internal and external communications, media relations, digital channels and engagement, corporate campaigns, our bespoke design and print contract, along with engagement, partnerships and internal and external consultation. You will also play a pivotal role in delivering the council's strategic communications and engagement services, providing expert advice and support to the Cabinet and Corporate Leadership Team. Your role will involve crafting key messages that reflect the council's strategic intent and leading proactive media and digital campaigns to enhance the council's profile.You will oversee a full media relations service and ensure effective communication across all digital channels, including social media, the website, and email.
The post holder will be required to work outside the Council's normal office hours when necessary and will manage the responsibility of the Out of Hours telephone service.What you'll need to succeedTo be successful in this role, you must have proven experience in a senior level communications role, preferably within the public sector or complex organisation. Previous experience in media relations, digital communications, and campaign management is crucial for this role.
You must be able to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities whilst leading a team. You must be able to communicate effectively and professionally as you will be in contact with senior leadership, councillors, and partner agencies both verbally and in writing. You need to be able to build meaningful relationships with key stakeholders across all levels as you will be liaising with various people from different backgrounds.
This role will suit an individual from public relations / journalistic /digital communications / media relations background etc.What you need to do nowIf you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above, so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to. The Council is an equal-opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.
Hays EA is a trading division of Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited and acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
