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- Tasks: Lead communications and public affairs, shaping strategic messaging and managing media relations.
- Company: Join the Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly, overseeing a major police force.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible remote work, and access to great facilities like a gym and café.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public safety while working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with diverse stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Background in journalism, strong interest in policing, and experience in strategic communications required.
- Other info: Full-time role based in Exeter with some travel; interviews on May 22 and 23.
The predicted salary is between 64800 - 101000 £ per year.
Location: Exeter
Salary up to £81,126
We are seeking a Head of Communications and Public Affairs who embodies our values of integrity, trust, independence, and prioritising the public's voice. We want to hear from you if you have:
- a background in journalism
- a strong interest in policing and current affairs
- ability to work in a fast-paced communications environment
- a passion for high-quality customer service
- experience in building credibility at senior/board level for strategic communications
- capability to engage with diverse groups including the public, customers, councillors, stakeholders, senior Police staff, and high-profile individuals
- a transparent and effective communication style
- a desire to lead a strategic role
About the Organisation
The Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly oversees the largest geographical police force in England. The Commissioner leads a team committed to delivering high-quality services across policing, crime prevention, public safety, and criminal justice.
Role Overview
You will work closely with the Commissioner to showcase impactful stories, influence decision-making with the public voice, and serve as the key communications and public affairs advisor. You will lead the multi-disciplinary communications team, manage media relations, and oversee customer services within the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC). Your role will involve shaping strategic communication to enhance transparency, public confidence, and the effectiveness of the Police and Crime Plan.
Position Details
This is a full-time position based primarily at the Devon & Cornwall Police headquarters at Middlemoor, Exeter, with some travel across the force area. Flexibility for remote work is available. The role is politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act.
Benefits
- Competitive salary with potential market supplement
- Facilities including a café, gym, changing rooms, and sports activities
- Free onsite parking
Application Process
Please submit your CV and a supporting statement (no more than two A4 pages), quoting reference TOTALComms0425. Interviews are scheduled for May 22 and 23. For informal inquiries, please email us.
Head of Communications and Public Affairs (Exeter) employer: Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner Devon Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly
Contact Detail:
Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner Devon Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Communications and Public Affairs (Exeter)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the current issues in policing and public affairs, especially those relevant to Devon and Cornwall. This will not only help you understand the context of the role but also enable you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of communications and public affairs, particularly those who have experience working with police or public sector organisations. Attend relevant events or webinars to build connections that could provide insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you would manage a multi-disciplinary team. Think about examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or projects, as this will be crucial for demonstrating your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Police and Crime Commissioner’s recent initiatives and communication strategies. Being able to reference specific projects or campaigns during your discussions will show your genuine interest in the organisation and its mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Communications and Public Affairs (Exeter)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in journalism and communications. Emphasise any roles where you've engaged with diverse groups or worked in fast-paced environments, as these are key aspects of the job.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: In your supporting statement, clearly articulate your passion for policing and current affairs. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to build credibility at senior levels and your transparent communication style.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading a multi-disciplinary team, include examples of your leadership experience. Highlight how you've successfully managed teams or projects, particularly in strategic communications.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you quote the reference TOTALComms0425 in your application. Double-check that your CV and supporting statement do not exceed the specified length of two A4 pages before submitting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner Devon Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly
✨Showcase Your Journalism Background
Make sure to highlight your experience in journalism during the interview. Discuss specific examples where your skills in storytelling and communication have made a significant impact, especially in relation to policing and current affairs.
✨Demonstrate Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare to discuss how you would shape strategic communications for the Police and Crime Commissioner. Think about how you can enhance transparency and public confidence, and be ready to share ideas on engaging diverse groups effectively.
✨Engage with Real-Life Scenarios
Be prepared to tackle hypothetical scenarios that may arise in the role. This could involve managing media relations or addressing public concerns. Show your ability to think on your feet and provide clear, effective communication strategies.
✨Emphasise Your Leadership Skills
As this role involves leading a multi-disciplinary team, be sure to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share examples of how you've successfully built credibility at senior levels and engaged with various stakeholders in previous roles.