DescriptionWe are committed to the development of our workforce. This position is only available to applicants who already work for Surrey County Council. We thank you for your interest in our roles and encourage you to review our vacancies which are open to all.The starting salary for this role is £79,260 per annum, based on a 36-hour work week.We are hiring Head of Communications to join our Communications TeamWe are looking for someone with a passion for communications, a proven track record of leadership, political judgment, external affairs handling, and a strategic mindset to deliver the communications strategy for Surrey County Council (SCC).Rewards and Benefits26 days' holiday (prorated for part-time staff), rising to 28 days after 2 years and 31 days after 5 yearsOption to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leaveExtensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeingUp to 5 days of carer's leave per yearPaternity, adoption, and dependents leaveGenerous local government salary-related pensionLifestyle discounts including gym, travel, shopping, and more2 paid volunteering days per yearAccess to a learning and development hub with resourcesAbout the TeamYou will join the Communications & Engagement team, which supports services in policy making and delivery to improve outcomes for residents and support the council’s overarching goal that no one is left behind.Our team offers variety and opportunity. We value support, socialising, and flexible working to ensure a good work-life balance.About the RoleThis role is a strategic leadership position managing the Senior Communications Managers across SCC service directorates. Responsibilities include managing the council's reputation, external affairs, and delivering the Communications Strategy. The role is part of the Communications Senior Leadership Team, deputising for the Director of Communications when needed, and sharing responsibility for the daily operations of the Communications Team with the Head of Brand & Marketing.Shortlisting CriteriaTo be shortlisted, your application must clearly demonstrate:Experience in setting and delivering a Communications StrategyResponsibility for external messaging, content, and media handlingExperience with Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Communications & Engagement workstreamLeadership in reviewing and developing communications functionsAbility to liaise effectively between Cabinet Members and officers regarding narrative and strategyKey communication between directorate teams and the Director of CommunicationsShared responsibility for monitoring CPA&E budget alongside the Head of Brand & MarketingPlease contact us for questions related to the role, flexible working, transferable skills, or barriers to employment.The application deadline is 23:59 on 14/07/2025, with interviews to follow.Local Government ReorganisationSurrey County Council is preparing for Local Government Reorganisation, enabling devolution and giving more powers to local areas. Currently, Surrey has a two-tier system with 11 district and borough councils and one county council. By April 2027, these will be reorganised into a smaller number of new unitary councils. This role will transfer to the new council with the same terms and conditions.Our ValuesOur values are central to who we are. Discover more about our values.Our CommitmentWe are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. A guaranteed interview will be offered to all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria and choose to disclose a disability. We welcome applications from all underrepresented groups and provide adjustments during the application and onboarding process.
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