Interim Head of Strategic Communication and Campaigns

Working on behalf of a Local Authority, Aatom Recruitment has an excellent opportunity for an Interim Head of Strategic Communication and Campaigns on a 2 months contract with a possibility of an extension.

Main purpose of post

To lead, plan, develop and deliver an innovative and highly effective Strategic Communications and Campaigns service giving expert advice that will enhance service delivery and the reputation of the Council. Manage staff responsible for service delivery / support within the service area. Work with external agencies and other partners to ensure the Council maximises service outcomes in relation to cost.

Support the Cabinet, Chief Executive and Management Board, to achieve the aims and desired outcomes of the Council.

Responsibilities

• Plan and ensure service delivery within a complex / diverse service area. Control operational activities within the service area and ensure professional standards are delivered.
• Manage responses to complex professional or politically sensitive issues within the area of responsibility.
• Ensure the development and delivery of continuous improvements in all aspects of the service.
• Ensure the successful implementation of health and safety legislation, policies and practices.
• Accountable for the strategic and operational planning and delivery of the service targets and objectives. Ensure the service’s plan and performance (either directly or through commissioned / managed services) results in the implementation of agreed Council strategies, policies and outcomes.
• Input to the strategic planning of the wider organisation.
• To support the Director in leading, developing and delivering a first-class communications service for the council with specific responsibility for Strategic Comms and Campaigns.
• Deputise for the Director of Communications and Campaigns as and when necessary
• To lead and develop a strategic communications and campaigns function based on best practice and innovation within a culture of continuous improvement.
• Lead and deliver a number of key campaigns each year which contribute to achieving the Council’s strategic objectives.
• Lead on establishing key evaluation metrics for campaigns and ensure objectives are achievable.
• To lead a team protecting and enhancing the reputation of the authority
• To improve the reach of and further develop all of the council’s channels and make recommendations for other channels that can be bought or earned.
• To act as an advisor and supporter on communications to the council’s officers and Cabinet members
• To work closely with other heads of service to drive forward a campaign programme to support the delivery of the council’s priorities including lobbying for funding and policy changes that benefit the lives of Waltham Forest residents

Skills/Qualifications

• Educated to degree standard or equivalent
• Relevant professional qualification and evidence of continuous professional development
• Substantial experience in planning and delivery of communications strategies and campaigns
• Strong creative, strategic, analytical, organisational skills with proven operational effectiveness
• Experience overseeing the design and production of print materials and publications
• Experience of creating and managing budgets to deliver campaign outcomes
• Experience of providing high level advice and developing strategic approaches to complex issues in a political organisation.
• Experience of managing contracts from outside providers
• Knowledge of the workings of local government and the national and political environments, particularly Parliament and the civil service.
• Significant experience of working with senior stakeholders.
• Experience of managing change effectively across a service area.
• Significant experience of writing reports, briefings and other high level communications.
• Evidence of consistently and successfully delivering to tight deadlines in a sensitive environment.
• Authority and credibility to build relationships influence and engage successfully with Members, senior managers, colleagues and partners in complex or politically sensitive situations.
• Excellent time management skills to manage a complex workload prioritise and set deadlines and cope with conflicting and changing demands
• Knowledge of behaviour change desirable but not essential

To get more information about this role and how to apply please contact Anisha 07876556434.