At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead public affairs and digital communications to influence decision-makers and strengthen workers' voices.
- Company: Join TUC Cymru, a key player in advocating for working people across Wales.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working options, and a final salary pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employment and social issues while shaping public discourse.
- Qualifications: Experience in public affairs, strong communication skills, and a commitment to equality.
- Other info: We encourage applications from underrepresented groups and offer excellent career development opportunities.
Fixed term contract until March 2028. Full time – 35 hours per week (happy to discuss flexible working). TUC Cymru is looking for an experienced and politically astute Head of Public Affairs, Media and Digital Communications to help shape our work, influence decision‑makers and strengthen the voice of working people across Wales.
Do you have experience in working in or with trade unions, political institutions, political parties or public affairs organisations, with a strong understanding of how political decisions are made? Can you lead and develop a communications team, delivering high‑quality, timely and strategic outputs across press, digital and social media? Do you have strong analytical skills and political judgement, with the confidence and ability to respond quickly to fast moving events and changing contexts? Do you have knowledge and understanding of current key issues in Wales and the UK more broadly around employment, the economy, society, trade unionism and politics, and can you apply this insight into communications and public affairs work?
In this role you’ll be working with unions and other organisations to deliver TUC Cymru priorities and will take the lead on building and maintaining effective relationships with elected representatives, advisors and civil servants across political parties. As well as having excellent interpersonal skills, the successful candidate will also need to demonstrate they can operate confidently in a political environment, influence decision‑makers and represent TUC Cymru with authority. You’ll also work closely with the General Secretary and senior leadership team to align political engagement with communications strategy, ensuring TUC Cymru’s voice is clear, consistent and influential. You will also be responsible for monitoring and evaluating the impact of political and communications activity, using insight and data to refine and strengthen our work.
We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate:
- A strong personal commitment to equality and diversity and the aims and values of TUC Cymru
- Excellent organisational, planning and time management skills
- The ability to act as a confident spokesperson, with outstanding written, digital and verbal communication skills
- An understanding of trade union values, campaigns and structures
- The ability to work collaboratively with senior leaders, unions and partner organisations
Desirable:
- Experience working in a bilingual (Welsh/English) communications environment
We are particularly keen to receive applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BME) applicants who are underrepresented in this part of the TUC but also welcome applications from any candidate.
The closing date for completed applications for this post is 12 noon on Wednesday 11 February 2026. First round interviews will be held on Thursday 19 Feb 2026 with second round interviews scheduled for Wednesday 4 March 2026. First round interviews will be conducted in person at the Cardiff office. Second round interviews will be conducted in person at our London office. Staff enjoy a good benefits package including final salary pension scheme and other benefits.
Head of Public Affairs, Media and Digital Communications employer: Trades Union Congress TUC
Contact Detail:
Trades Union Congress TUC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Public Affairs, Media and Digital Communications
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience and skills that align with the role. We want to see how you can lead a team and influence decision-makers, so share specific examples of your past successes!
✨Stay Informed
Keep up with current events and key issues in Wales and the UK. This will not only help you in interviews but also show that you’re genuinely interested in the role and the organisation. We love candidates who are engaged and informed!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who align with our values, so make sure to showcase your commitment to equality and diversity!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Public Affairs, Media and Digital Communications
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in public affairs and communications. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Political Savvy: Since this role is all about influencing decision-makers, demonstrate your understanding of political processes and current issues in Wales and the UK. We love seeing candidates who can connect their insights to practical communication strategies.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and get straight to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Trades Union Congress TUC
✨Know Your Political Landscape
Before the interview, brush up on current political issues in Wales and the UK. Understand how these issues impact trade unions and public affairs. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your analytical skills and political judgement during the conversation.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading communications teams and delivering strategic outputs. Bring examples of successful campaigns or initiatives you've led, especially those that involved press, digital, and social media. This will highlight your ability to operate confidently in a political environment.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Equality and Diversity
TUC Cymru values equality and diversity, so be ready to share how you've championed these principles in your previous roles. Discuss specific actions you've taken to promote inclusivity within your team or organisation, as this aligns with their core values.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to respond to fast-moving events. Think of examples where you've had to adapt your strategy quickly in response to changing political contexts. This will showcase your agility and readiness to influence decision-makers effectively.