Job Description
Role Overview
Go South Coast are seeking an experienced and proactive Communications Manager to lead the development and delivery of internal and external communications across the business. This role plays a key part in shaping how we engage with colleagues, stakeholders and the wider public, ensuring all communications are clear, consistent and aligned with our values.
Working closely with the Head of Marketing and senior leadership team, you will act as a trusted advisor, providing strategic guidance while delivering high-quality, engaging content across a range of channels.
About Go South Coast
Part of the Go-Ahead Group, Go South Coast operates one of the most comprehensive networks of commercial bus services across southern England. Each of our bus companies (Bluestar, Damory, Excelsior, Morebus, Salisbury Reds, Southern Vectis, Swindon’s Bus Company), is uniquely branded to reflect the local community it serves. We employee approximately 2500 people. Our aim is to be a trusted, bus operator of choice in every town, city, and rural area we operate.
KEY RESPONSIBLITIES
Strategy & Planning
· Lead the development and delivery of integrated internal and external communications plans aligned to business objectives.
· Continuously review and improve the internal communications strategy to enhance employee engagement and understanding.
· Advise senior leaders on how to communicate key business updates, changes and initiatives clearly and effectively.
Internal Communications & Engagement
· Own and optimise internal communications channels (e.g. Blink, intranet, SharePoint), ensuring best practice, strong engagement and effective governance.
· Create and deliver engaging, accessible and timely communications that reflect company tone of voice and values.
· Develop and implement creative employee engagement campaigns that bring company values and priorities to life.
· Ensure colleagues are informed of key updates ahead of external audiences where appropriate.
· Gather and respond to employee feedback, using insights to continuously improve communication effectiveness.
Content Creation & Campaign Delivery
· Plan, write and edit high-quality content for a range of internal and external channels.
· Develop compelling written and visual content, including key messages, video and imagery, working with in-house designers, content creators and external partners where needed.
· Prepare content for quarterly updates from the Managing Director, making sure key priorities and values are reflected
· Support content creators across the business by providing clear briefs and guidance.
Media Relations & External Communications
· Write clear, accurate and engaging press releases and proactive media content.
· Manage reactive communications, including press statements, ensuring timely and reputationally sound responses.
· Support crisis communications and issues management as required.
Measurement & Insight
· Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for communications activity, including engagement, reach and sentiment.
· Analyse performance data and provide regular insights and recommendations to improve effectiveness.
· Monitor and report on communications spend, ensuring value for money and impact.
Stakeholder & Team Collaboration
· Build strong relationships across the business, working closely with, Directors, Operations, Commercial, Training and leadership teams to align communications with business priorities.
· Collaborate as part of the wider marketing and communications team, supporting colleagues and contributing to shared objectives.
· Participate in Go-Ahead group-wide internal communications forums, sharing best practice across the wider network.
Reputation & Industry Positioning
· Identify opportunities to enhance the organisation’s reputation through communications and storytelling.
· Lead the development of high-quality submissions for industry awards, positioning the organisation as a sector leader.
· Benchmark communications activity against industry best practice and emerging trends.
Employee Insight & Surveys
· Support the development, promotion and evaluation of employee surveys, including Pulse surveys, ensuring insights are effectively communicated and acted upon.
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
· Proven experience in a communications role, with a strong focus on internal communications.
· Must have driving licence and be willing to travel to different locations across the South of England.
· Must have experience in producing and editing video.
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages to different audiences.
· Educated to degree level.
· Experience advising and influencing senior stakeholders.
· Experience using digital communication platforms (e.g. intranet, employee apps, SharePoint).
· Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and measure impact.
· Creative thinker with the ability to develop engaging content and campaigns.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
· Proactive, collaborative and solutions focused.
· Confident working with senior stakeholders.
· High attention to detail and commitment to quality.
· Adaptable and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.