At a Glance
- Tasks: Create engaging content and manage communications for local government transformation.
- Company: Join Folkestone & Hythe District Council during an exciting period of change.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity to work on high-profile projects and build valuable relationships.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital role that keeps communities informed and engaged.
- Qualifications: Experience in communications or media relations and strong writing skills.
The predicted salary is between 51755 - 63256 £ per year.
This is an exciting time to join Folkestone & Hythe District Council.
We're creating an additional Media & Communications Officer role to strengthen our communications capacity during a period of significant transformation across local government.
As Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) progresses, effective communication and engagement will be more important than ever.
This newly created position will play a vital role in helping residents, businesses, stakeholders and staff understand the changes ahead, while supporting the council's day‑to‑day communications activity, maintaining confidence in current services and protecting our reputation.
Working closely with emerging local government partners across Kent, you'll help deliver clear, consistent and engaging communications that support collaboration, build trust and keep communities informed throughout this period of change.
The role
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced communications professional who thrives in a fast‑paced environment and enjoys working on high‑profile projects that make a real difference.
This is a hybrid role, which requires a minimum office presence of one day per week in our Civic Centre offices in Folkestone.
- You'll work across a wide range of communications activities, including:
- Building strong relationships with internal stakeholders and partner organisations to develop proactive communications opportunities, using a variety of channels, to demonstrate the work of the council for its residents and businesses
- Managing media enquiries, advising on responses, ensuring timely replies and creating briefings for council interviewees
- Supporting communications linked to Local Government Reorganisation and wider council priorities and helping coordinate joint communications activity.
- Writing compelling content for press releases, websites, social media and publications.
- Advising senior officers and councillors on communications matters.
- Monitoring media coverage, evaluating pro‑active communications, effectiveness and identifying opportunities for improvement.
- Supporting the council's response to sensitive issues and reputational risks.
About you
You'll be a talented communicator with outstanding writing skills, strong political awareness and the confidence to work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
We're looking for someone who
- Has experience working in communications, PR or media relations.
- Is comfortable managing competing priorities and responding quickly to emerging issues.
- Builds strong working relationships and enjoys collaborative working.
- Is excited by the opportunity to contribute to one of the biggest changes facing local government in a generation.
- Can work effectively with partner organisations to deliver aligned and impactful communications.
- The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Sunday 30th August at 23:59
Please note
This vacancy may close earlier than the advertised closing date if we receive a high volume of applications.
- Interviews will be held on Tuesday 8th September 2026
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Media And Communications Officer in Folkestone employer: Folkestone & Hythe District Council
At Folkestone, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values innovation and collaboration within our Human Resources team. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth, offering numerous opportunities for career development while ensuring a healthy work-life balance. Join us to make a meaningful impact in our community, where your expertise will be valued and your contributions recognised.
Contact Details:
Folkestone & Hythe District Council Recruitment Team
