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- Tasks: Lead the communications strategy for Surrey County Council and manage a dynamic team.
- Company: Surrey County Council is dedicated to improving community outcomes and supporting its workforce.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26-31 days of holiday, lifestyle discounts, and a supportive Employee Assistance Programme.
- Why this job: Join a collaborative team focused on impactful communication and work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in communications strategy and leadership within local government.
- Other info: This role will transition to new councils post-reorganisation, ensuring job security.
The predicted salary is between 79200 - 105000 £ per year.
Job 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' service and 31 days after 5 years' service
- Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
- Extensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) supporting health and wellbeing
- Up to 5 days of carer's leave per year
- Paternity, adoption, and dependents leave
- Salary-related pension
- Lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, shopping, and more
- 2 paid volunteering days per year
- Access to learning and development resources
About the Team
You will join the Communications & Engagement team, which supports services in policy making and delivery to improve outcomes for residents, aligning with the council's goal that no one is left behind.
Our team offers variety and opportunity, with a supportive environment, social activities, flexible working, and a good work-life balance.
About the Role
This strategic leadership position manages the Senior Communications Managers, overseeing SCC service directorates, and is responsible for the council's reputation, external affairs, and communications strategy. It is part of the Communications Senior Leadership Team and shares responsibilities 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 with Cabinet Members and officers on narrative and strategy
- Key communication between directorate teams and the Director of Communications
- Shared responsibility for monitoring budgets with the Head of Brand & Marketing
Please contact us for questions about 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 is preparing for local government reorganisation, which will create a smaller number of unitary councils by April 2027. This role will transfer to the new councils with existing terms and conditions.
Our Values
Our values are central to who we are. Learn more about our values on our website.
Our Commitment
Surrey County Council is a Disability Confident Employer. Guaranteed interviews are offered to disabled applicants meeting minimum criteria and who disclose their disability. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups and provide reasonable adjustments during the application and onboarding process.
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Head of Communications (reference: SCC/TP/288080/3364) employer: Surrey County Council
Contact Detail:
Surrey County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Communications (reference: SCC/TP/288080/3364)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Surrey County Council's current communications strategy and recent initiatives. This will not only help you understand their goals but also allow you to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current employees in the Communications Team or related departments. Engaging with them can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your leadership skills and strategic mindset in communications. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed external affairs and media handling in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on local government reorganisation news and its implications for Surrey County Council. Showing your awareness of this context during your interview will highlight your proactive approach and understanding of the challenges ahead.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Communications (reference: SCC/TP/288080/3364)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in setting and delivering a communications strategy. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to handle external affairs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for communications and outlines your relevant experience. Address how you can contribute to the council's reputation and communications strategy.
Demonstrate Understanding of Local Government: In your application, show your knowledge of Local Government Reorganisation and its implications. Discuss any previous experience you have with LGR communications and engagement workstreams.
Highlight Leadership Experience: Clearly articulate your leadership experience in reviewing and developing communications functions. Provide examples of how you've successfully liaised with senior officials and managed teams.
How to prepare for a job interview at Surrey County Council
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
As a Head of Communications, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Prepare examples of how you've successfully developed and implemented communication strategies in the past, particularly in challenging environments.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
This role involves managing a team, so be ready to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share specific instances where you led a team through change or achieved significant results, especially in a local government context.
✨Understand Local Government Dynamics
Familiarise yourself with the current landscape of local government reorganisation in Surrey. Be prepared to discuss how you would navigate communications during this transition and engage effectively with various stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Political Acumen
Given the nature of the role, showcasing your political judgement is key. Prepare to discuss how you've handled sensitive communications and liaised with political figures, ensuring you can maintain the council's reputation while delivering clear messages.
