Head of Communications & Engagement

Head of Communications & Engagement

Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead strategic communications and engagement for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
  • Company: Join a vital organisation dedicated to community safety across Scotland.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for professional growth, and a chance to make a real difference.
  • Why this job: Shape the narrative and engage with diverse communities to inspire and inform.
  • Qualifications: Experience in communications and engagement within complex environments.
  • Other info: Be part of a mission-driven team committed to a safer Scotland.

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

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service protects one of the largest geographical areas of any Fire and Rescue Service with over 350 Community Fire Stations and corporate locations across Scotland. We manage a diverse range of risks, from urban cities to remote and rural island locations.

As Head of Communications and Engagement, you will provide strategic leadership across all internal and external communications and engagement activity. You’ll guide the organisation’s narrative, strengthen relationships with critical partners, and advise senior leaders within a complex political and public sector environment. You will shape how SFRS engages with diverse communities, staff, government, media and partners – championing best practice, transparency, and innovation.

Your work will help ensure that our people, stakeholders and the public are well informed, connected and inspired as we deliver our mission of working together for a safer Scotland.

Please note that the closing date for applications is Friday 10th April 2026 at 12:00 noon.

Head of Communications & Engagement employer: Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead communications and engagement across one of the largest geographical areas in the UK. With a commitment to transparency, innovation, and community engagement, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that values professional growth and collaboration. Working in this dynamic environment not only allows you to make a meaningful impact on public safety but also fosters strong relationships with diverse communities and stakeholders throughout Scotland.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

Contact Detail:

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

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

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the fire and rescue sector or related fields. Use LinkedIn to connect with current employees at Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and ask for insights about their work culture and the role.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by researching the organisation's recent projects and initiatives. This will help you understand their narrative and show that you're genuinely interested in how they engage with communities across Scotland.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your communication skills! As Head of Communications & Engagement, you'll need to articulate your vision clearly. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to refine your pitch.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to a safer Scotland.

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

Strategic Leadership
Internal and External Communications
Engagement Activity
Relationship Management
Advisory Skills
Political Acumen
Public Sector Knowledge
Community Engagement
Best Practice Implementation
Transparency Advocacy
Innovation in Communication
Stakeholder Management
Media Relations
Inspiration and Motivation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of Communications & Engagement. Highlight your experience in strategic leadership and engagement activities, and don’t forget to mention any work with diverse communities or public sector environments.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about communications and engagement, and how your skills can help shape the narrative at Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Be authentic and let your personality come through!

Showcase Relevant Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to strengthen relationships and engage with stakeholders. Use metrics where possible to show the impact of your work – numbers speak volumes!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our organisation there!

How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

✨Know the Organisation Inside Out

Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly research the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Understand their mission, values, and recent initiatives. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

As Head of Communications and Engagement, you'll likely face scenario-based questions that assess your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've successfully navigated complex communications challenges and be ready to discuss them in detail.

✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills

Highlight your experience in building relationships with diverse stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you've engaged with communities, government bodies, and media in previous roles. This will demonstrate your ability to strengthen relationships, which is crucial for this position.

✨Emphasise Innovation and Best Practices

The role requires championing best practices and innovation in communications. Come armed with examples of how you've implemented new strategies or technologies in your past roles. This will illustrate your forward-thinking approach and commitment to improving engagement.

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