Head of Communications (12 month FTC)

Main Duties of the Job

• Overseeing the communications portfolio including public relations, marketing, and internal communications.
• Promoting the work of the Trust by providing high-quality communications information.
• Engaging with staff and stakeholders to highlight good public health to service users and carers.
• Ensuring the reputation of the Trust in relation to social media and the press.
• Linking to NHSE England, Integrated Care Boards, and communications departments.
• Managing internal and external communications, media, marketing, graphic design, video production, social media, events, and the team budget.
• Overseeing planning and running of Trust events such as AGM/Fun Day, Leaders' Conference, Annual Trust Awards, and Distinguished Service Awards.

About Us

[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] employ around 4000 talented colleagues. We have a wide portfolio including mental health, physical health, learning disability, and drug and alcohol services. We are dedicated to the development of our people and hold a learning half day every month. We are passionate about enhancing the quality of our service. For more information, visit our website: https://www.rdash.nhs.uk/ or our careers site: https://workwithrdash.co.uk/.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential:

• Degree in Communications, PR, Marketing, Journalism, or related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Evidence of continued professional development.

Desirable:

• Postgraduate qualification in communications or leadership.
• Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., CIPR, PRCA).

Experience

Essential:

• Significant experience managing a communications function in a large, complex organisation.
• Proven track record of developing and delivering integrated communications strategies.
• Media relations and crisis/reputation management experience.
• Budget management and resource planning.
• Leadership and line management experience.
• Experience of working in politically sensitive environments.

Desirable:

• NHS or public sector experience.
• Experience of commissioning external agencies.
• Experience of mentoring or coaching.

Knowledge

Essential:

• Expert knowledge of communications principles, channels, and best practice.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Advanced influencing and negotiation skills with senior stakeholders.
• Analytical and strategic thinking; ability to interpret data and evaluate impact.
• Responding to sensitive media enquiries and strong proactive media management.
• Digital and social media expertise.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of NHS policy and governance frameworks.
• Understanding of health inequalities and inclusion in messaging.
• Familiarity with digital analytics and evaluation tools.
• Knowledge of behaviour change theory in communications.
• Experience in video and multimedia content creation.

Skills/Abilities

Essential:

• Highly organised, able to manage multiple priorities.
• Resilient and adaptable under pressure.
• Collaborative and inclusive leadership style.
• Ability to travel across sites as required.
• Flexible approach to working hours to meet service needs.

Desirable:

• Innovative approach to communications challenges e.g. curiosity for role of AI in communications.
• Ability to act as a trusted advisor to executives.

Additional Information

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and a Disclosure and Barring Service check may be required.

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.

Employer Details

Employer: [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]

Address: Woodfield House, Doncaster, DN4 8QN

Website: https://www.rdash.nhs.uk/

Employer Contact

Contact: Jo McDonough, Director of Strategic Development

Email: [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]

Phone: [contact hidden]