Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Communications Team and manage external affairs for Surrey County Council.
- Company: Surrey County Council is dedicated to improving community outcomes and supporting local governance.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days holiday, lifestyle discounts, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team focused on impactful communication and flexible work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in communications strategy and leadership within local government.
- Other info: This role will transition to new unitary councils by April 2027.
The predicted salary is between 67000 - 79000 £ per year.
Job Description
We are committed to the development of our workforce. This position is only available to applicants who already work for Surrey County Council. We thank you for your interest in our roles and encourage you to review our vacancies which are open to all.
The starting salary for this role is £79,260 per annum, based on a 36-hour work week.
We are hiring Head of Communications to join our Communications Team
We are looking for someone with a passion for communications, a proven track record of leadership, political judgment, external affairs handling, and a strategic mindset to deliver the communications strategy for Surrey County Council (SCC).
Rewards and Benefits
- 26 days' holiday (prorated for part-time staff), rising to 28 days after 2 years and 31 days after 5 years
- Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
- Extensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
- Up to 5 days of carer's leave per year
- Paternity, adoption, and dependents leave
- Generous local government salary-related pension
- Lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, shopping, and more
- 2 paid volunteering days per year
- Access to a learning and development hub with resources
About the Team
You will join the Communications & Engagement team, which supports services in policy making and delivery to improve outcomes for residents and support the council’s overarching goal that no one is left behind.
Our team offers variety and opportunity. We value support, socialising, and flexible working to ensure a good work-life balance.
About the Role
This role is a strategic leadership position managing the Senior Communications Managers across SCC service directorates. Responsibilities include managing the council's reputation, external affairs, and delivering the Communications Strategy. The role is part of the Communications Senior Leadership Team, deputising for the Director of Communications when needed, and sharing responsibility for the daily operations of the Communications Team with the Head of Brand & Marketing.
Shortlisting Criteria
To be shortlisted, your application must clearly demonstrate:
- Experience in setting and delivering a Communications Strategy
- Responsibility for external messaging, content, and media handling
- Experience with Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Communications & Engagement workstream
- Leadership in reviewing and developing communications functions
- Ability to liaise effectively between Cabinet Members and officers regarding narrative and strategy
- Key communication between directorate teams and the Director of Communications
- Shared responsibility for monitoring CPA&E budget alongside the Head of Brand & Marketing
Please contact us for questions related to the role, flexible working, transferable skills, or barriers to employment.
The application deadline is 23:59 on 14/07/2025, with interviews to follow.
Local Government Reorganisation
Surrey County Council is preparing for Local Government Reorganisation, enabling devolution and giving more powers to local areas. Currently, Surrey has a two-tier system with 11 district and borough councils and one county council. By April 2027, these will be reorganised into a smaller number of new unitary councils. This role will transfer to the new council with the same terms and conditions.
Our Values
Our values are central to who we are. Discover more about our values.
Our Commitment
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. A guaranteed interview will be offered to all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria and choose to disclose a disability. We welcome applications from all underrepresented groups and provide adjustments during the application and onboarding process.
\\n#J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Communications employer: Surrey County Council
Contact Detail:
Surrey County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Communications
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Surrey County Council's current communications strategy and recent initiatives. This will not only help you understand their goals but also allow you to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current employees in the Communications Team or related departments. Engaging with them can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples of your past leadership experiences in communications, especially those that involved external affairs and media handling. Being able to articulate these experiences clearly will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on local government reorganisation news and its implications for Surrey County Council. Showing your awareness of this significant change will highlight your strategic mindset and readiness to tackle upcoming challenges.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Communications
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in setting and delivering a Communications Strategy. Include specific examples of your leadership roles and any relevant achievements in external affairs handling.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for communications and demonstrate your understanding of the role. Address how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, particularly your ability to liaise between Cabinet Members and officers.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your application, clearly outline your experience with Local Government Reorganisation Communications & Engagement workstream. Provide concrete examples of how you've managed communications functions and improved outcomes in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any errors or inconsistencies. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a leadership position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Surrey County Council
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
As a Head of Communications, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Prepare examples of how you've successfully developed and implemented communication strategies in the past, particularly in a local government context.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
This role requires strong leadership skills. Be ready to discuss your experience managing teams, especially in high-pressure situations. Share specific instances where your leadership made a significant impact on your team's performance or morale.
✨Understand Local Government Dynamics
Familiarise yourself with the current landscape of local government, especially regarding the upcoming reorganisation. Being able to articulate your understanding of these changes and their implications for communications will set you apart.
✨Prepare for Political Sensitivity
Given the nature of the role, you'll need to navigate political landscapes effectively. Prepare to discuss how you've handled sensitive communications in the past, particularly when liaising between different stakeholders like Cabinet Members and officers.