Head of Stakeholder Engagement and Communications
Head of Stakeholder Engagement and Communications

Head of Stakeholder Engagement and Communications

Warrington Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead strategic communications and engage with key stakeholders in a dynamic public sector role.
  • Company: Join a major public sector programme making a real impact in the community.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, flexible hours, and a supportive hybrid work culture.
  • Why this job: Shape organisational strategy while influencing public policy and enhancing your leadership skills.
  • Qualifications: Degree level education or equivalent experience in public relations and stakeholder engagement required.
  • Other info: This is a permanent position with a competitive salary based on experience.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a seasoned Head of Stakeholder Engagement and Communications to lead and drive high-level strategic communications within a major public sector programme. This senior leadership role is ideal for a collaborative communicator with the expertise to engage senior political, media, and public stakeholders, while leading a small team and influencing long-term strategic objectives.

The Role

  • You will oversee the planning and execution of integrated communications and engagement strategies across multiple channels – including internal communications, press and media relations, stakeholder engagement (including political), events, and digital platforms.
  • You’ll act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership and ensure that communications align with organisational goals, public policy, and best practices in the public sector.
  • You’ll also play a pivotal role as part of the senior management team, shaping the organisation's strategic direction and reputation.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and lead strategic communications and stakeholder engagement plans.
  • Manage internal and external communications, including media relations, digital engagement, and events.
  • Provide expert counsel to senior leadership on all communication matters.
  • Build strong relationships with political stakeholders, public agencies, and media outlets.
  • Ensure alignment of messaging across departments and platforms.
  • Manage risk, reputation, and crisis communications when required.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing communications team.

Requirements

  • Educated to degree level or equivalent professional experience.
  • Proven track record in public relations, stakeholder engagement, and corporate communications within complex organisations.
  • Experience developing and delivering communication strategies that influence policy and public perception.
  • Exceptional leadership skills and team management experience.
  • Strong understanding of political frameworks in local or central government.
  • Ability to navigate multi-stakeholder environments and engage at all levels.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and digital communication skills.

Benefits

  • 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
  • Access to a government-backed pension scheme.
  • Salary sacrifice and travel benefit options.
  • Flexible working hours with a Flexi-Time Scheme (up to 18 extra leave days per year).
  • Hybrid working and a culture of inclusion and collaboration.

Head of Stakeholder Engagement and Communications employer: Queen Square Recruitment

As a leading public sector organisation based in Manchester, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. With competitive benefits such as 28 days of annual leave, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development, we are committed to supporting your growth while you play a vital role in shaping strategic communications and stakeholder engagement. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the community and enjoy a rewarding career in a dynamic environment.
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Contact Detail:

Queen Square Recruitment Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Stakeholder Engagement and Communications

✨Tip Number 1

Network strategically within the public sector. Attend events, seminars, and workshops where you can meet key stakeholders and decision-makers. Building these relationships can give you insights into the role and help you stand out.

✨Tip Number 2

Stay updated on current trends in public communications and stakeholder engagement. Follow relevant news sources and engage with thought leaders on social media to demonstrate your knowledge and passion for the field during interviews.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed stakeholder relationships and communications strategies in the past. Tailor your experiences to align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.

✨Tip Number 4

Familiarise yourself with the organisation's mission and recent initiatives. This will allow you to articulate how your skills and experiences can contribute to their goals, making a strong case for why you're the right fit for the role.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Stakeholder Engagement and Communications

Strategic Communication Planning
Stakeholder Engagement
Public Relations
Media Relations
Digital Communication
Event Management
Leadership Skills
Team Management
Political Acumen
Risk and Crisis Communication
Relationship Building
Influencing Skills
Written Communication Skills
Verbal Communication Skills
Understanding of Public Policy

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in stakeholder engagement and communications. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage complex communications strategies and lead teams.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your understanding of the public sector and the importance of strategic communications. Discuss how your background aligns with the key responsibilities of the role and express your enthusiasm for contributing to the organisation's goals.

Showcase Leadership Experience: In your application, emphasise your leadership skills and experience managing teams. Provide examples of how you've successfully led communications initiatives and influenced policy or public perception in previous roles.

Highlight Stakeholder Engagement Skills: Demonstrate your ability to build relationships with various stakeholders, including political figures and media outlets. Include specific instances where your engagement strategies have led to successful outcomes.

How to prepare for a job interview at Queen Square Recruitment

✨Research the Organisation

Before your interview, take the time to thoroughly research the organisation's mission, values, and recent projects. Understanding their strategic objectives will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your alignment with their goals.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your ability to handle stakeholder engagement and crisis communications. Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully navigated complex situations or influenced policy outcomes.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a senior role, it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Be ready to discuss how you've led teams, mentored colleagues, and driven strategic initiatives in previous positions, showcasing your ability to inspire and manage a high-performing team.

✨Demonstrate Your Communication Expertise

Given the focus on communications, be prepared to discuss your approach to developing and executing communication strategies. Share specific examples of how you've engaged with various stakeholders, including political figures and media outlets, to achieve successful outcomes.

Head of Stakeholder Engagement and Communications
Queen Square Recruitment
Location: Warrington
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