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- Tasks: Lead communications and external affairs for the UK's electoral process.
- Company: The Electoral Commission oversees elections and promotes public confidence in democracy.
- Benefits: Generous salary, London weighting, and a range of benefits.
- Why this job: Join a transformative organisation making a real impact on democracy and public engagement.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in communications, leadership, and public campaigns required.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; applications from underrepresented groups are encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 103282 - 118236 £ per year.
The Electoral Commission is the independent body which oversees elections and regulates political finance in the UK. It promotes public confidence in the democratic process and ensures its integrity. A small yet high-impact organisation, our work is wide-reaching and of significant public interest.
Over the coming years, the Commission will oversee the delivery of an ambitious Corporate Plan through a critical period of UK-wide elections, especially building our digital offer to voters. It will regulate the rules on political finance, in the context of increasingly complex campaigning techniques and growing public concerns. It will also continue to play a crucial role in coordinating, leading and informing debate to ensure the resilience of our democratic process.
We are an ambitious and forward-looking organisation currently at the outset of significant transformation that will enable us to continue delivering for citizens. In this context, we are now seeking the appointment of a Director of Communications & External Affairs. Reporting to the CEO, you will be a key member of the Executive Leadership Team responsible for managing all of our communications work across the UK.
External campaigns, digital outreach and media engagement all form key pillars of this approach, as does ensuring that our internal communications are effective. In the midst of significant legislative change, our ability to communicate with diverse audiences will be critical, and you will spearhead this work.
Alongside this, you will also be responsible for delivering a new digital offer aimed at providing voters with easy access to any information they need to support them in engaging in the democratic process. You will inspire and lead our expert workforce, harnessing their commitment and capability to deliver on our strategic plans.
You will promote and deliver critical change and improvement as we reimagine how the Commission functions and ensure that its voice is heard, respected and trusted wherever it operates. You will be an experienced leader able to build credibility with stakeholders across the electoral system and to the highest levels in the Commission itself.
You will have experience of managing a busy and complex communications function with a track record of shaping innovative and compelling public campaigns and engaging with the media on a range of issues. You will understand the role and value of a regulator, be familiar with the devolution agenda and show an understanding of how effective regulation works in practice when communicating with audiences.
You will be people-focused, committed to our mission and able to deliver positive results through the teams that you lead. We would like to continuously increase the diversity of our employees. Applications from underrepresented groups are particularly welcomed.
This is a critical and exciting role at the heart of safeguarding the UK electoral process.
Director of Communications & External Affairs employer: The Electoral Commission
Contact Detail:
The Electoral Commission Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Communications & External Affairs
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Electoral Commission's recent campaigns and initiatives. Understanding their current focus will help you tailor your discussions during interviews, showcasing your knowledge and enthusiasm for their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the communications and public affairs sectors, especially those who have experience with regulatory bodies. Engaging with these individuals can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how it aligns with the Commission's mission. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams through change, as this role requires inspiring and managing a diverse workforce.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends in digital communication and public engagement. Being able to demonstrate your understanding of innovative strategies will be crucial, especially as the Commission aims to enhance its digital offerings.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Communications & External Affairs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Director of Communications & External Affairs. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in communications, external affairs, and leadership. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage complex communications functions and engage with diverse audiences.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also reflects your understanding of the Electoral Commission's mission. Discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, particularly in relation to public confidence and democratic processes.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: In both your CV and cover letter, emphasise your leadership experience. Provide examples of how you've inspired teams and delivered results, especially in challenging or transformative environments.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Electoral Commission
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the key responsibilities of the Director of Communications & External Affairs. Familiarise yourself with the Electoral Commission's mission and recent initiatives, especially regarding digital outreach and public engagement.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle complex communications challenges. Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed public campaigns or navigated media relations, particularly in a regulatory context.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership style. Be ready to discuss how you inspire and lead teams, manage diverse stakeholders, and drive strategic change within an organisation.
✨Highlight Your Understanding of Regulation
Given the role's focus on regulation and the electoral process, be prepared to discuss your understanding of how effective regulation works in practice. Show that you are aware of the devolution agenda and can communicate its implications to various audiences.
