At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic communications team and shape innovative engagement strategies.
- Company: Join the NHS Trust dedicated to outstanding community care in Wigan.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team focused on innovation and excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in healthcare communications and engage with diverse communities.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in communications and a passion for community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 48700 - 52500 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity to lead our talented communications team and Trust on our journey to Outstanding. WWL is proud to serve the Wigan Borough community and we are seeking an innovative thinker and compassionate leader to join us as Interim Head of Communications and Engagement for a one-year period. This is a pivotal role where you will:
- Lead and inspire a skilled communications and engagement team.
- Develop and deliver strategies that strengthen staff, patient, and community engagement.
- Shape the future of communications at WWL, exploring new approaches and technologies – including how AI can enhance our work.
- Champion our values, ensuring every message reflects our commitment to care, inclusion, and excellence.
Interested? Apply now and help us tell the story of WWL as we strive for Outstanding and making a difference.
Main duties of the job:
The Interim Head of Communications and Engagement will play an important role in helping to develop and improve the development and delivery of proactive, innovative and professionally led internal and external communications.
What we’re looking for:
- A proven compassionate leader with experience in communications, strong media management, someone who loves developing and implementing a great comms and engagement plan.
- Someone who is creative, strategic, and passionate about making a difference.
- A collaborative professional who takes pride in serving the Wigan Borough community and focused on effectively engaging with stakeholders.
Be part of a Trust that values innovation, compassion, and teamwork. Help shape our communications approach during a transformative period. Work with a talented, supportive team committed to delivering outstanding care.
Key results from the job holder:
- Implementing the Trust narrative/messages/positioning/branding.
- Assisting with reputational management.
- Internal communications and engagement.
- External communications.
- Media relations.
- Digital communications.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communication and Engagement Department supports the Trust by focusing its efforts on:
- Changing behaviours by encouraging people to lead healthier and safer lives.
- Operational effectiveness of services by informing people about access and availability and involving them in service re-design.
- Helping to fulfil obligations to involve, engage or consult.
- Reputation of the organisation and fulfilling statutory warning and informing duties.
- Equitably explaining policies, decisions, programmes and direction to internal audiences to create commitment, understanding, buy-in and advocacy.
Activity is delivered through four main disciplines:
- Marketing and campaigns – raise awareness of policies, programmes or activity; influences attitudes and behaviour and supports the development and delivery of services.
- Internal communications and staff engagement – engages staff by connecting them and creating commitment to organisational objectives.
- Media, digital and social media – proactive and reactive handling of media; relationship management; creation of content, insight and audience evaluation.
- External affairs and public engagement – managing critical stakeholder relationships, listening to gather insight and intelligence.
Planning and Organisational Duties:
Internal:
- Delivery of a strategic, two-way internal communications approach that keeps staff engaged and informed.
- Support a review of the effectiveness of internal channels and protocols.
- Provide communication advice to managers and employees.
- Develop and oversee delivery of an internal communications programme.
External:
- Ensure delivery of the Trust communications strategy is implemented from the routine through to the most demanding of situations.
- Assist with advising on media strategy and handling in order to ensure positive outcomes for the Trust.
- Support the implementation of an issues and crisis management strategy.
Communications and Key Working Relationships:
Internally:
- Director of Communications and Stakeholder Management.
- Communications Team.
- Patient Engagement & Service Transformation Teams.
- All Trust staff.
Externally:
- Media outlets and journalists.
- MPs and public sector partners.
- Health and social care organisations.
- Patients, carers, and the public.
Responsibility for Finance:
- To be authorised signatory and support the Director of Communications and Stakeholder Engagement to manage the communications budget.
- Manage budget – review monthly spend, report, deliver costs and deliverable budget.
Responsibility for Human Resources:
- Play an active part in planning and delivering the work of the communications team.
- Undertaking 1:1s and appraisals for direct reports.
Responsibility for Health & Safety:
- Compliance with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974.
Responsibility for Teaching:
- Coach, support and provide expert advice and guidance on the strategic and tactical delivery of communications and media management across the organisation.
Person specification:
Experience:
- Experience of leading successful communications department.
- Experience of media management.
- Experience of leading and implementing communications campaigns.
Skills:
- Ability to organise and deliver high profile and engaging events.
- Excellent event planning and management.
Our Trust prefers candidates to submit applications online. Please contact the Recruitment Team if you have difficulty applying online.
Head of Communications and Engagement (Interim) in Wigan employer: Wwl
Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of its staff, believing that 'happy staff makes for happy patients'. Located in Wigan, the Trust fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, offering flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional growth. As part of a dedicated team, you will play a crucial role in shaping communications strategies that enhance community engagement and patient care, all while being supported by a diverse workforce committed to excellence and compassion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Communications and Engagement (Interim) in Wigan
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the NHS or related fields. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Trust’s values and recent initiatives. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission. Practice common interview questions and think of examples that highlight your leadership and communication skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your creativity! If you get the chance, present ideas on how you would enhance their communications strategy. This could be through innovative campaigns or using new technologies like AI. It’ll demonstrate your proactive approach and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the WWL team. Keep an eye on deadlines and follow up if you haven’t heard back after a couple of weeks.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Communications and Engagement (Interim) in Wigan
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the role of Head of Communications and Engagement. Highlight your leadership experience and any innovative strategies you've implemented in previous roles.
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! Share examples of how you've made a difference in communications and engagement, especially in a healthcare setting. We want to see your commitment to serving the Wigan Borough community.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your supporting statement, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points if necessary to make your achievements stand out. Remember, we’re looking for impactful communication, so show us you can deliver that right from your application!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wwl
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into WWL's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Familiarise yourself with their communications strategies and any recent news. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you tailor your responses to align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential Head of Communications and Engagement, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership approach. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in challenging situations. Highlight your ability to inspire and engage others, as this is key for the role.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Innovation
WWL is looking for someone who can explore new approaches and technologies, including AI. Come prepared with ideas on how you could implement innovative communication strategies. This shows you're forward-thinking and ready to contribute to their journey towards Outstanding.
✨Engage with Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking insightful questions. Inquire about the current challenges the communications team faces or how they measure the success of their engagement strategies. This demonstrates your proactive mindset and genuine interest in the role.
