Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic communications team, developing strategies and ensuring quality control on all communications.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council in Essex, committed to effective communication and community engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexible hours, and the chance to make a real impact in your community.
- Why this job: This role offers a unique opportunity to shape public perception and enhance community relations.
- Qualifications: Experience in communications strategy and team leadership is essential; creativity and adaptability are key.
- Other info: This is a 6-month interim position with potential for extension; perfect for those seeking impactful work.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Interim Head of Communications
Based in Essex, hybrid working, 2 days on site
Length: 6 months (Possibility of extension) Inside IR35
The interim Head of Communications will be accountable for the provision of an effective Communications team, ensuring that it continually meets the expectations and requirements of the Council and ensures the service is developed accordingly.
Key Responsibilities of the Interim Head of Communications:
- Develop and implement strategies, policies and work practices to support an efficient and effective service that complies with corporate priorities, legal requirements and commercial aspirations.
- Ensure all deadlines are met and good quality control measures are put in place on outgoing communications.
- Align the communication, digital and customer services strategies to ensure a consistent approach to customer experience and brand including through the website and maximising the use of social media.
- Ensure the right tools are in place to support effective communication and develop standards, processes, protocols, performance indicators and a consistent approach to evaluating and measuring communications outcomes, engagement activity, and media management.
- Provide a professional strategic advisory and consultative role on high profile communication issues including media issues and specific projects, reports or cases that may impact on the reputation and profile of the council to colleagues, Members and officers, both within the council and relevant external partners.
- Ensure a communications presence at key public meetings including Council and Cabinet, and other committees as appropriate, so that communication issues can be identified and managed effectively.
- Represent and promote the Council at local, regional and national level working with other bodies to identify and adopt innovation and best practice.
To apply for this role or to find out about other jobs, please contact Joseph Dalton on the London Local Government Recruitment team on 020 7557 7667 or send your CV to localgov@venngroup.com.
Contact Detail:
Venn Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Communications
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the current communications strategies of the Council. Understanding their existing policies and practices will help you demonstrate how your experience aligns with their needs during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the local government sector, especially those involved in communications. Attend relevant events or webinars to build connections that could provide insights or referrals for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed communications in previous roles. Highlight your ability to implement strategies that align with corporate priorities and legal requirements.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends in digital communication and social media. Being able to speak knowledgeably about innovative tools and practices will show that you can enhance the Council's communication efforts.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Communications
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and expectations for the Head of Communications position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your experience in communications, strategy development, and team management. Use bullet points to make it easy to read and focus on achievements that demonstrate your ability to meet the role's demands.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should complement your CV by providing specific examples of how your past experiences relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Emphasise your strategic thinking and ability to manage high-profile communication issues.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a communications role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Venn Group
✨Understand the Council's Priorities
Before your interview, make sure you research the specific priorities and goals of the Council. This will help you tailor your responses to demonstrate how your experience aligns with their objectives and how you can contribute to their communication strategies.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Be prepared to discuss your approach to developing and implementing communication strategies. Highlight any past experiences where you've successfully aligned communication efforts with organisational goals, and be ready to provide examples of how you've measured success in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Media Management Skills
Given the role's focus on media issues, come equipped with examples of how you've handled high-profile communication challenges in the past. Discuss your experience in managing media relations and how you've effectively communicated during crises or sensitive situations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-time communication challenges. Think about potential issues the Council might face and how you would address them, showcasing your ability to think on your feet and provide strategic solutions.
