At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead media, communications, and public engagement for the Police & Crime Commissioner.
- Company: Join the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly.
- Benefits: Enjoy a role with genuine influence and impact on community safety.
- Why this job: Make a difference in policing while working closely with key stakeholders and the Commissioner.
- Qualifications: Must have a background in journalism and expertise in media relations.
- Other info: This role is politically restricted and subject to security vetting.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly for England’s largest policing area. We support the Commissioner in holding the police service to account, setting the budget of circa 430m and overseeing the largest police investment in a decade. Our award-winning services, including victim support and community safety, have helped our peninsula and islands become even safer places to live, work and visit, with the second lowest level of crime in the country. Devon and Cornwall Police have been on an improvement journey and our office has never been more vital to ensure the police deliver on public expectations.
Our Head of Communications & Customer Engagement will take the strategic lead for media, communications, public engagement, and customer service. Reporting to the OPCC Chief Executive you’ll have oversight of all contact and messaging to the media, public and key stakeholders. You’ll be working closely with Commissioner Alison Hernandez to ensure they are fully engaged with all stakeholder groups at a national and local level, with opportunities to influence strategic direction and policy implementation. Key to your success will be the development of an overarching communications plan that links to the priorities and ambitions of our Police & Crime Plan. Your expertise in media, communications and public affairs will support the Commissioner to be a high-profile advocate of policing and crime reduction, through proactive community engagement and innovative, high-profile campaigning.
This is a role for a communications and public affairs specialist with a track record in media relations and a background in journalism. An outstanding communicator and influencer with a flair for innovation and a strong grip on media law, you’ll have the chance to bring your experience, passion and ability to grab people’s attention to a role of genuine influence and impact, helping to improve policing and the lives of our communities.
Find out more and to apply please vist: or contact our recruitment advisors at Tile Hill.
- Mark Bearn –
- Clare Connor –
- Tom McElroy-Williams –
The closing date for applications is the 9th of March 2025. This post is politically restricted and is subject to security vetting.
To apply:
To apply, please submit an up-to-date copy of your CV (three sides of A4 maximum), along with a supporting statement (three sides of A4 maximum) detailing your experience, and achievements and addressing the key criteria for the role set out on this site and using examples to demonstrate how you meet the requirements. Documents should be uploaded via our website, please include and upload the below information in two documents only. If you experience any issues whilst applying, please contact
Applications should include:
- Full contact details;
- Names, positions, organisations and contact details for two referees (we will ask your permission before contacting referees);
- Details of your current salary and notice period
- Notification of any dates when you are not available for an interview.
At Tile Hill, we are committed to inclusion and accessibility. We champion and support all individuals to ensure everyone feels valued, listened to and motivated to get the very best out of each recruitment process and that processes are designed to meet the needs of individuals. If you have any specific requests and would like a confidential discussion with the Tile Hill team, then please email
Head of Communications & Customer Engagement employer: Devon & Cornwall OPCC
Contact Detail:
Devon & Cornwall OPCC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Communications & Customer Engagement
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the current issues and priorities in policing and crime reduction in Devon and Cornwall. Understanding the local context will help you engage effectively with stakeholders and demonstrate your commitment to the community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of communications and public affairs, especially those who have experience working with police or public sector organizations. Building these connections can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative communication strategies that could enhance public engagement and media relations for the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner. Think about how you can leverage social media and community outreach to improve visibility and trust.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to showcase your previous successes in media relations and public engagement during the interview process. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to influence and advocate effectively, as this will be crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Communications & Customer Engagement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Communications & Customer Engagement. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, especially in media relations and public engagement.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is crucial. Address the key criteria outlined in the job description and use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate how you meet these requirements. Highlight your achievements in communications and public affairs.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and tailored to the role. Focus on relevant experience, particularly in media relations and journalism, and keep it concise (maximum three sides of A4).
Prepare for References: Include full contact details for two referees who can vouch for your professional experience. Make sure to inform them beforehand that they may be contacted regarding your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Devon & Cornwall OPCC
✨Understand the Role's Impact
Make sure you grasp how the Head of Communications & Customer Engagement role influences public perception and community safety. Be ready to discuss how your previous experiences align with the strategic goals of the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner.
✨Showcase Your Media Expertise
Prepare examples from your past work that highlight your skills in media relations and public affairs. Discuss specific campaigns you've led or contributed to, emphasizing your innovative approaches and successful outcomes.
✨Engagement Strategies
Think about how you would develop an overarching communications plan that aligns with the Police & Crime Plan. Be prepared to share your ideas on proactive community engagement and how you would advocate for policing and crime reduction.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
As an outstanding communicator, you should be able to articulate your thoughts clearly and persuasively. Practice discussing your achievements and experiences in a way that captures attention and demonstrates your ability to influence stakeholders effectively.