At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in shaping public engagement and media communications.
- Company: Join Wiltshire Police, dedicated to community safety and inclusive service.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, free gym membership, and well-being support.
- Other info: Inclusive employer welcoming diverse applicants; personal development opportunities available.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community trust and engagement through innovative communications.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in communications, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 44000 € per year.
At Wiltshire Police, we are dedicated to making our community a safer place for everyone. Our team is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and service. We believe in creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every member can thrive and make a meaningful impact. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance, Wiltshire Police offers a range of opportunities to grow and develop. Join us and be part of a team that values courage, compassion, and dedication to public service. Help us to keep Wiltshire safe. We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer, and we’re committed to building an inclusive, diverse community that celebrates and welcomes everyone. If there are any adjustments we could make to the recruitment and selection process to support you, please let us know.
Salary: W10 £45,114-£47,607 & on-call allowance enhancement
About the role
Do you have a passion for impactful storytelling and public engagement? Are you a strategic thinker with a sharp news sense and strong leadership skills? Wiltshire Police is looking for a Public Affairs and External Engagement Lead to join our Corporate Communications and Engagement Department. As the leader for the Media and External Engagement Team, you will play a vital role in managing a multi-skilled team responsible for delivering professional, engaging, and effective external communications. You will ensure our media output aligns with the Force's priorities, values, and the College of Policing’s Authorised Professional Practice (APP). This is an opportunity to shape how Wiltshire Police engages with the public and the media, enhances trust and confidence, and supports frontline policing through innovative and transparent communications. You’ll be part of a forward-thinking and inclusive organisation that values innovation, transparency, and public service. This is your chance to lead a high-profile team and make a real impact on how we serve and engage our communities. You will also play a key part within our Leadership team ensuring a high potential of personal development.
What you will be doing
- Lead and coordinate the day-to-day work of the media and external engagement team
- Plan and deliver high-quality communications around operations, criminal cases, and organisational activity
- Monitor all current and public affairs which might impact on policing and create innovative and engaging responses to inform our local position
- Develop and implement communication strategies that actively engage officers, staff, stakeholders, media, and the public.
- Foster best practice in media relations and ensure consistent support for operational policing
- Promote the stories of our officers, staff, and volunteers to humanise and highlight the breadth of our service.
About you and your experience
- Proven experience in communications, public relations, or journalism
- Strong leadership and planning abilities
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- A deep understanding of media relations, public engagement, and crisis communications.
- The ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities
- An interest in current and public affairs.
What we offer
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising to 30 days
- Free Gym membership
- Physical and mental well-being support
Shortlisting will take place on July 8th. Interviews will be held on July 15th & 16th. Please note, all roles will be subject to a vetting procedure, some roles due to the nature of their work, will require additional security clearance. Depending on the number of applications received, we reserve the right to close this role early. We are proud of being a truly inclusive organisation who provides fair and equal consideration to all of our applicants. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, nationalities, disabilities, sexual orientation, religions or beliefs and of neuro divergence.
Public Affairs and Communications Lead in Devizes employer: Wiltshire Police
At Wiltshire Police, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through various development opportunities, while our strong focus on community engagement allows you to make a meaningful impact in public service. With generous benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, free gym membership, and a culture that values innovation and transparency, joining our team means becoming part of a forward-thinking organisation that truly cares about its people and the communities we serve.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Affairs and Communications Lead in Devizes
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Wiltshire Police's recent communications and public engagement strategies. Understanding their current initiatives will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and show how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the public affairs and communications field, especially those with experience in law enforcement. Engaging with these individuals can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals that enhance your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of your past work that showcase your leadership skills and ability to manage a team effectively. Be ready to discuss specific situations where you successfully navigated media relations or crisis communications.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current affairs and issues affecting policing in the UK. Being well-informed will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and its impact on the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Affairs and Communications Lead in Devizes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in communications, public relations, or journalism. Emphasise your leadership skills and any specific achievements that align with the role's requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for public engagement and storytelling. Mention how your skills can contribute to Wiltshire Police's mission and values, and provide examples of your strategic thinking in previous roles.
Showcase Your Understanding of Media Relations:In your application, demonstrate your knowledge of media relations and crisis communications. Include specific examples of how you've successfully managed public affairs or engaged with the media in past positions.
Highlight Your Interest in Current Affairs:Express your interest in current and public affairs within your application. Discuss how staying informed about these topics has influenced your work and how it can benefit Wiltshire Police in their external engagement efforts.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wiltshire Police
✨Research Wiltshire Police
Before the interview, take some time to understand Wiltshire Police's values, mission, and recent initiatives. This will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Public Affairs and Communications Lead, strong communication skills are essential. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated complex information in the past, whether through media relations or public engagement.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle crisis communications or public affairs challenges. Think of specific situations where you successfully navigated similar issues and be ready to discuss your thought process and outcomes.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
Since this role involves leading a team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share examples of how you've motivated teams, managed competing priorities, and fostered collaboration in previous roles.
