Head of Communications

Description

We 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 Team

We 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 Benefits

• 26 days' holiday (prorated for part-time staff), rising to 28 days after 2 years and 31 days after 5 years
• Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
• Extensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
• Up to 5 days of carer's leave per year
• Paternity, adoption, and dependents leave
• Generous local government salary-related pension
• Lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, shopping, and more
• 2 paid volunteering days per year
• Access to a learning and development hub with resources

About the Team

You 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 Role

This 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 Criteria

To be shortlisted, your application must clearly demonstrate:

• Experience in setting and delivering a Communications Strategy
• Responsibility for external messaging, content, and media handling
• Experience with Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Communications & Engagement workstream
• Leadership in reviewing and developing communications functions
• Ability to liaise effectively between Cabinet Members and officers regarding narrative and strategy
• Key communication between directorate teams and the Director of Communications
• Shared responsibility for monitoring CPA&E budget alongside the Head of Brand & Marketing

Please 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 Reorganisation

Surrey 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 Values

Our values are central to who we are. Discover more about our values.

Our Commitment

We 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.