We’re sharpening our strategic focus and building on strong progress in policy development to deliver the Mayor’s priorities and our Corporate Plan. This is a pivotal role in shaping Newham’s future.
You’ll be the council’s strategic compass, leading strategy and policy, horizon scanning and governance so that evidence, resident insight and equality analysis shape everything we do. Working closely with the Mayor and Chief Executive, you’ll set frameworks for corporate planning and performance; ensure coherence across directorates; and give expert advice on high-risk, high-impact policy areas.
You’ll lead external positioning and relationships across central and regional government, think tanks and universities, showcasing Newham as the progressive learning organisation that we are. You’ll champion inclusive, data-driven, co-produced policy that translates long-term challenges into tangible outcomes for residents. You will also lead our well-established communications function.
Director of Strategy, Policy and Communications
Grade SMRE: £117,963 - £136,101
About you
You’ll be a highly credible strategist with political acumen and resilience, able to work at pace in a complex environment. You’ll have deep expertise in strategy, policy development and governance, and the ability to align corporate priorities and performance frameworks. You’ll be skilled in external influencing and relationship-building at senior levels, and you’ll bring exceptional communication and analytical skills to create clarity from complexity.
You’ll have experience advising senior leaders, leading high-performing teams and fostering collaborative culture. Above all, you’ll be committed to inclusion, co-production and evidence-based policy—and comfortable navigating sensitive issues and high-profile challenges.
If you’re motivated by impact, equity and place-based leadership, this role offers a platform to shape the borough’s future.
Find out by contacting Duncan Collins Frazer Thouard or Kembi
We are proud to serve one of London’s most diverse boroughs and are committed to building inclusive teams that reflect our communities.
We Are Newham. Join us.
To apply please click on this
Additional Information
We are committed to creating an inclusive, anti-racist environment for all. When you apply for a job at Newham, your application is considered on its merits regardless of your age, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender identity or sexual orientation. If you share our vision and values, and you bring the experience and skills we need, that’s all that matters to us.
The London Borough of Newham has important responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you are appointed to a job that involves working with these groups, you may be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
The personal information we have collected from you will be shared with Cifas who will use it to prevent fraud, other unlawful or dishonest conduct, malpractice, and other seriously improper conduct. If any of these are detected you could be refused certain services or employment. Your personal information will also be used to verify your identity. Further details of how your information will be used by us and Cifas, and your data protection rights, can be found by .