Head of Communications (12 month FTC)
The closing date is 20 May 2026.
This is a high profile post responsible for the delivery of our Communications Strategy which enables the Trust to achieve its strategic objectives. The post holder will have responsibility for driving forward both operational and strategic communications which will increase the reach, impact, and visibility of the Trust both internally and externally.
Main duties of the job
The post holder will be responsible for overseeing the communications portfolio of work including effective public relations, marketing and internal communications for the Trust.
This post is key to promoting the work of the Trust by providing high quality and effective communications information, engaging with staff and stakeholders to highlight good public health to service users and carers, and ensuring the reputation of the Trust in relation to social media and the press.
The post provides the link to NHSE England, the Integrated Care Boards, Communications Departments and networks with local NHS and local authority communicators, providing wider communications support across areas in which the Trust provides services. On occasion the post holder may be required to lead the communications process on behalf of other NHS organisations and for the whole of the health community where RDaSH is leading on a project, incident or initiative.
The post holder will manage the Trust's internal and external communications, media, marketing, graphic design and print room, video production, social media and events team and manage the team budget.
The post requires excellent writing skills in order to develop internal and external messaging.
The post also oversees the planning and running of Trust events such as the AGM/Fun Day, Leaders' Conference, Annual Trust Awards and Distinguished Service Awards.
About us
Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) employ around 4000 talented colleagues who are very much appreciated, valued, and respected.
We have a wide portfolio which includes mental health, physical health, learning disability and drug and alcohol services.
We are dedicated to the development of our people and hold a learning half day every month for our colleagues.
We are passionate about enhancing the quality of our service and we work hard to attract and select the right colleagues for our organisation. Our goal is to employ those who share our passion for providing first class care while remaining committed to our vision and values.
Job responsibilities
Please view the attached job description and person specification to view the full details about the role.
Person Specification
Qualifications
* Degree in Communications, PR, Marketing, Journalism, or related discipline (or equivalent experience).
* Evidence of continued professional development.
* Postgraduate qualification in communications or leadership.
* Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., CIPR, PRCA).
Experience
* Significant experience managing a communications function in a large, complex organisation.
* Proven track record of developing and delivering integrated communications strategies.
* Media relations and crisis/reputation management experience.
* Budget management and resource planning.
* Leadership and line management experience.
* Experience of working in politically sensitive environments.
* NHS or public sector experience.
* Experience of commissioning external agencies.
* Experience of mentoring or coaching.
Knowledge
* Expert knowledge of communications principles, channels, and best practice.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Advanced influencing and negotiation skills with senior stakeholders.
* Analytical and strategic thinking; ability to interpret data and evaluate impact.
* Responding to sensitive media enquiries and strong proactive media management.
* Digital and social media expertise.
* Knowledge of NHS policy and governance frameworks.
* Understanding of health inequalities and inclusion in messaging.
* Familiarity with digital analytics and evaluation tools.
* Knowledge of behaviour change theory in communications.
* Experience in video and multimedia content creation.
Skills/Abilities
* Highly organised, able to manage multiple priorities.
* Resilient and adaptable under pressure.
* Collaborative and inclusive leadership style.
* Ability to travel across sites as required.
* Flexible approach to working hours to meet service needs.
* Innovative approach to communications challenges e.g. curiosity for role of AI in communications.
* Ability to act as a trusted advisor to executives.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
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