Director of Strategy, Policy & Communications (Full Time)

Director of Strategy, Policy & Communications

Salary: £117,963 – £136,101

Expires: 22/02/2026

Company: Newham

Location: Newham, London

Job Type: Full Time

We’re sharpening our strategic focus and building on strong progress in policy development to deliver the Mayor’s priorities and our Corporate Plan. This is a pivotal role in shaping Newham’s future.

You’ll be the council’s strategic compass, leading strategy and policy, horizon scanning and governance so that evidence, resident insight and equality analysis shape everything we do. Working closely with the Mayor and Chief Executive, you’ll set frameworks for corporate planning and performance; ensure coherence across directorates; and give expert advice on high‑risk, high‑impact policy areas.

You’ll lead external positioning and relationships across central and regional government, think tanks and universities, showcasing Newham as the progressive learning organisation that we are. You’ll champion inclusive, data‑driven, co‑produced policy that translates long‑term challenges into tangible outcomes for residents. You will also lead our well‑established communications function.

About you

You’ll be a highly credible strategist with political acumen and resilience, able to work at pace in a complex environment. You’ll have deep expertise in strategy, policy development and governance, and the ability to align corporate priorities and performance frameworks. You’ll be skilled in external influencing and relationship‑building at senior levels, and you’ll bring exceptional communication and analytical skills to create clarity from complexity.

You’ll have experience advising senior leaders, leading high‑performing teams and fostering collaborative culture. Above all, you’ll be committed to inclusion, co‑production and evidence‑based policy—and comfortable navigating sensitive issues and high‑profile challenges.

If you’re motivated by impact, equity and place‑based leadership, this role offers a platform to shape the borough’s future.

Find out more on our campaign site: https://join-newham.co m or contact Frazer Thouard (frazer.thouard@gatenbysanderson.com) or Kembi Coakelin (kembi.coakelin@gatenbysanderson.com).

We are proud to serve one of London’s most diverse boroughs and are committed to building inclusive teams that reflect our communities.

We Are Newham. Join us.

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.