Join TVP as The Head of Operational Communications
In this exciting and influential role, you will lead a multi‑disciplinary team responsible for developing and delivering operational communications strategies and activities across Thames Valley Police. From supporting critical incidents and major investigations to promoting operational successes and reassuring communities, your team's work will help fight crime, serve victims and build trust and confidence in our force.
No two days are the same. Policing is one of the most dynamic and complex communications environments in which to work. One moment you may be advising senior leaders on a fast‑moving operational incident, the next you could be helping shape communications around a major policing operation, emerging trust and confidence issue, or multi‑agency major incident response. The breadth and pace of the role require someone who thrives on variety, can quickly absorb complex information and confidently pivot between competing priorities and subject matters.
As part of the Corporate Communications Senior Leadership Team, you will contribute to the leadership and management of the department, including risk, performance, budget, business continuity, workforce planning, recruitment, professional development and wellbeing of communication professionals.
We are seeking an experienced communications leader who is educated to degree level and/or holds a professional qualification in communications, public relations, media or has equivalent experience. You will have a proven track record of leading high‑performing teams, delivering impactful internal and external communications, and providing expert communications counsel in fast‑paced, high‑pressure environments, including during crises.
The successful candidate will be a calm and credible leader who is comfortable operating through uncertainty, making sound decisions with incomplete information and adapting communications strategies as situations evolve. You will possess excellent interpersonal and influencing skills, strong political awareness and the ability to build effective relationships at all levels, enabling you to confidently advise, challenge and support senior stakeholders.
You will be a strategic thinker with a keen eye for risk, opportunity and organisational impact. You will understand the important role communications plays in maintaining public trust and confidence and be able to balance both immediate operational demands and longer‑term considerations.
This is a rare opportunity to lead communications at the heart of operational policing. The challenges are significant, but so too is the opportunity to make a tangible difference to our communities, our workforce and in one of the country's largest police forces.
Due to the requirement to work flexibly, including occasional unsocial hours, and because public transport may not always be available or suitable, a full UK driving licence is essential.
Benefits
- 30 days annual leave per annum, pro‑rata for part time (plus Bank Holidays)
- flexible working conditions
- wide range of lifestyle discounts
- career development opportunities
- option to join a local government pension scheme
Head of Operational Communications in Kidlington employer: Thames Valley Police
Thames Valley Police is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture where every call handler plays a vital role in community safety. With comprehensive training leading to a nationally recognised qualification, employees benefit from professional growth opportunities and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, making it a rewarding place to build a meaningful career.
