At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic communications for Suffolk's ambitious change programme and engage with diverse audiences.
- Company: Suffolk County Council, driving innovative local government transformation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to positive change and community empowerment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of local services and connect with communities across Suffolk.
- Qualifications: Experience in communications, engagement, and understanding of local government dynamics.
The predicted salary is between 74716 - 84404 £ per year.
Suffolk's councils are working together on one of the most ambitious change programmes the county has ever seen. Through Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), we're creating three new unitary councils and building the foundations for the future of local services across Suffolk. We're looking for talented people to join our programme team and play a key role in making that happen.
As our Communications and Engagement Lead, you'll be the strategic lead for storytelling across the Suffolk LGR Programme. You'll drive and embed a clear, consistent and effective communications and engagement approach, ensuring the Future Suffolk programme speaks with one voice across Suffolk's councils and partners.
Your role and responsibilities
- You will be responsible for how the programme communicates and engages with staff, residents, elected members, partners and stakeholders.
- Working across Suffolk's councils and partner organisations, you'll help people understand what is changing, why it matters and what it means for them, while building confidence, understanding and engagement throughout the programme.
- Work with colleagues across the system to evolve and drive the communications and engagement strategy for the programme, ensuring it remains aligned to key milestones and priorities.
- Ensure clear, timely and consistent communication across the Suffolk system.
- Lead and evolve the Future Suffolk brand and narrative.
- Provide strategic oversight of communications activity across participating councils and partners.
- Influence and build trusted relationships with senior leaders, elected members and stakeholders.
- Provide oversight of programme communication channels, including websites, newsletters and engagement activity.
- Use insight, creativity and innovation to support engagement and readiness for change.
You will need
- Significant experience leading communications and engagement activity, ideally within local government or the wider public sector.
- A strong understanding of organisational change and the political and public context in which local government operates.
- Experience developing strategic communications and engagement plans.
- Exceptional communication, storytelling and audience engagement skills, with the ability to adapt messages for different audiences.
- An understanding of stakeholder engagement, behavioural insight and approaches that support readiness for change.
- Strong influencing, networking and relationship-building skills.
- A creative, innovative and strategic approach, with the confidence to identify new ways of engaging audiences.
Most importantly, you'll share our commitment to making a positive difference for Suffolk's residents, communities and public services.
The team Although hosted by Suffolk County Council, this is a genuinely system-wide role working across the full LGR system, bringing together multiple councils, disciplines and partners behind a single shared objective. The team will act on behalf of all Suffolk councils and be accountable to the Future Suffolk Implementation Board. You’ll join a newly established programme team, united by a shared commitment to delivering change that protects services for residents and creates strong, sustainable new councils.
For more information on LGR in Suffolk, please visit the Three Councils for Suffolk and the Future Suffolk websites.
Applications from Suffolk's five councils Colleagues currently working for one of Suffolk's five councils are encouraged to apply. Where possible, appointments will be made on a secondment basis, allowing you to retain your substantive role.
Empowering Everyone
We're big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We're always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation.
For more information
Please contact Lysanne Eddy, Programme Director for LGR, for a casual conversation. You can reach them by emailing Lysanne.Eddy@suffolk.gov.uk.
Closing date: 11.30pm, 8 September 2026
Provisional interview week: Week commencing 14 September 2026 (subject to change).
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
LGR Communications and Engagement Lead in Ipswich employer: Suffolk County Council
At Sendsory, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for our team of Cognition and Learning Practitioners. Located in Ipswich, Suffolk, we offer competitive salaries, six training days per year, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children with SEND. Our commitment to professional development and a child-focused culture ensures that every employee can grow and thrive while contributing to a nurturing educational setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land LGR Communications and Engagement Lead in Ipswich
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Suffolk County Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Suffolk County Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
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Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace LGR Communications and Engagement Lead in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Suffolk County Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Suffolk County Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Suffolk County Council.
