Head of Communications in Bristol

The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority is looking for a Head of Communications. This is a brand new role and a unique opportunity for an experienced senior communications professional to shape and lead our public relations strategy, ensuring effective engagement with stakeholders and maximising the impact for the people in our region. This is a senior leadership role at the heart of a politically led organisation with influence over transport, skills, housing and economic growth across the region. Reporting to the Assistant Chief Executive, you will work closely with senior officers and political leadership to ensure our communications support delivery, manage risk and build trust.

As Head of Communications, you will set the strategic direction for all communications and public relations activity. You’ll shape the organisation’s narrative, lead media relations, and oversee digital, social and print communications. Some days will be about long-term planning and storytelling; others will require calm, rapid decision-making in response to emerging issues. You’ll provide trusted advice, bring clarity to complexity, and lead a skilled communications team to do their best work. You’ll also have responsibility for the communications budget, ensuring resources are used effectively and deliver value for money.

• Develop and deliver a communications strategy that supports the Authority’s priorities
• Lead the organisation’s narrative and ensure consistent messaging across all channels
• Provide senior advice on reputation management, issues handling and crisis communications
• Oversee media relations and all public-facing communications activity
• Lead, support and develop a high-performing communications team
• Work closely with senior leaders and political representatives in a complex environment
• Manage the communications budget and ensure effective use of resources
• Ensure communications activity reflects the Authority’s values and commitment to public service

You will be an experienced senior communications professional, comfortable operating in high-profile and politically sensitive environments. You are likely to bring:

• Experience of leading communications strategy at organisational or programme level
• Strong media handling and reputation management experience
• The confidence and credibility to advise senior leaders and elected representatives
• Sound judgement, political awareness and a collaborative approach
• Experience of leading teams and managing budgets
• Public sector experience is helpful, but not essential. What matters most is your ability to communicate with clarity, integrity and impact — and to lead others with professionalism and empathy.

This is an opportunity to do work that matters. You’ll help shape how a region communicates with its residents, partners and government, and you’ll play a central role in supporting delivery and maintaining public confidence. We value professionalism, openness and good leadership — and we support flexible working and a healthy, respectful working culture.

Alongside the opportunity to lead change, drive strategic initiatives, and make a real difference in the West of England, we offer an excellent benefits package including: 26 days annual leave, plus