Head of Communications and Engagement (Interim)
| Posting date: | 24 December 2025 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | Not specified |
| Additional salary information: | £55,690 - £62,682 per annum, pro rata |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 23 January 2026 |
| Location: | Wigan, W1 2NN |
| Company: | Wrightington, Wigan & Leigh NHS Foundation Trust |
| Job type: | Contract |
| Job reference: | 7679548/302-25-7679548CPR |
Summary
A Vacancy at Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
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.
Please note that this vacancy is subject to Agenda for Change banding and the official banding has not yet been confirmed.
NHS Employees should secure their manager’s agreement for a secondment arrangement ideally prior to applying, as this will be a condition of any offer made. This vacancy is offered on a fixed term basis to provide temporary cover and maintain service continuity during staff absences. The contract is for 12 months. Whilst the temporary post is advertised on an acting / secondment basis there is the potential that this post may become permanent in the future.
The InterimHeadofCommunicationsand Engagementwillplayanimportantroleinhelpingtodevelopandimprovethedevelopmentanddeliveryofproactive,innovativeandprofessionallyledinternalandexternal communications.
The Head of Communications and Engagementwill compassionatelylead a smallteamofspecialistswhowill deliverameasurableprogrammeofactivitytoallaudiencesacrossarangeofcommunications channels in line with the departmental and Trust objectives.
What we’re looking for:
• A proven compassionate leader with experience in communications, strong media management, someone who loves a 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 focussed on effectively engaging with stakeholder.s
Why join us?
• 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.
Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are the proud providers of acute hospital and community services to the people of the Wigan Borough and surrounding areas. At WWL, we value our staff believing that ‘happy staff, makes for happy patients’. We have a recognised track record in staff engagement, and living our values’.
WWL are committed to placing the patient at the heart of everything we do, and in the provision of safe, effective care that acknowledges and ensures dignity. With this in mind we are seeking to recruit people who share our values and beliefs.
At WWL we value the benefits a rich and diverse workforce brings to our community and therefore welcome applications from all sections of society.
Key results from the job holder
Including what has been outlined above, the Interim Head of Communications and Engagement will line manage the communications team and will be expected to ensure the team delivers the full aims and objectives of the service, including:
· 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 Departmentsupports the Trust by focusing its efforts on:
Changing behavioursby encouraging people to lead healthier and safer lives
Operational effectivenessof services by informing people about access and availability and involving them in service re-design. Helping to fulfil obligations to involve, engage or consult
Reputationof the organisation and fulfilling statutory warning and informing duties
Equitably explainingpolicies, 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. These are frequently developed and delivered in partnership with other organisations across Wigan or Greater Manchester.
Internal communications and staff engagement– engages staff by connecting them and creating commitment to organisational objectives; understanding evolving aims and changing culture; creating belonging to the organisation and support for delivering priorities; being aware of the changing environment. Deliverables include managing the intranet, producing newsletters, information and events for staff.
Media, digital and social media– proactive and reactive handling of media; relationship management; creation of content, insight and audience evaluation; and management of channel output including the website, social media channels and other means of communication.
External affairs and public engagement– managing critical stakeholder relationships, listening to gather insight and intelligence; horizon scanning; two-way dialogue to develop and explain policies, programmes and approaches; involving audiences in co-creation, consulting on options for change.
Planning and Organisational Duties
Internal
· Delivery of a strategic, two-way internal communications approach that keeps staff engaged and informed. The approach will be aimed at helping staff to feel valued, involved and with a shared understanding of the Trust’s mission, vision, values and goals.
· 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.
· Assist with developing communication links and strong relationships are developed with
· all service divisions. Design systems to ensure each division has an equal opportunity to develop its internal and external profile and promote services.
External
· Ensure delivery of the Trust communications strategy is implemented from the routine through to the most demanding of situations where information is highly complex, sensitive or contentious.
· Assist with advising on media strategy and handling in order to ensure positive outcomes for the Trust. To include ensuring that the Trust’s views are appropriately represented at all times, by overseeing press releases, interviews, consultation responses, statements and briefings, and arranging media training for key individuals.
· Support the implementation of an issues and crisis management strategy. Lead on communications for responding to all crises or serious incidents including major incident.
Communications and Key Working Relationships
Internally
· Director of Communications and Stakeholder Management
· Communications Team
· Chief Executive & Executive Directors
· Senior Management Team
· Resilience, Fundraising, Legal & Patient Relations Teams
· Patient Engagement & Service Transformation Teams
· Staff Experience & Staff Side
· All Trust staff
Externally
· Media outlets and journalists (local, regional, national, and PR agencies)
· MPs and public sector partners (Wigan Borough Council)
· Health and social care organisations (including NHS GM, NHS England, CQC)
· Patients, carers, and the public
· Voluntary, third sector, and other relevant bodies
Responsibility for Finance
• To be authorised signatory and support the Director of Communications and Stakeholder Engagement to manage the communications budget as directed in line with Trust Standing Financial Instructions and with efficiency and consideration of value for money
· Managebudget –reviewmonthlyspend,report,delivercostsavingsanddeliverabalancedbudget.
• To oversee the purchase, ordering and stock control of any specific equipment and supplies required to deliver communications projects/campaigns and events
• To ensure value for money from the use of external suppliers through liaison with Procurement as required
• Negotiate with TV and film companies regarding contracts and access fees for filming production, working closely with Trust security and estates teams when required
Responsibility for Human Resources
Play an active part in planning and delivering the work of the communications team
and the line management of the Senior Communications Officers and Communications
Officer roles.
• Undertaking 1:1s and appraisals for direct reports to ensure optimum individual and team working
• Dealing with first line management of sickness, grievances and disciplinary matters
• Attending and maintaining compliance and ensure the Communications Team comply with the Trust mandatory training sessions
• Maintain professional training and educational portfolio in accordance with Trust and Departmental priorities as part of ongoing professional development plan
Responsibility for Health & Safety
Compliance with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 – the post holder is required to fulfil a proactive role towards the management of risk in all of their actions. This entails the risk assessment of all situations, the taking of appropriate actions and reporting of all incidents, near misses and hazards, and a statutory duty of care for their own personal safety and that of others who may be affected by their acts or omissions.
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.
This advert closes on Wednesday 7 Jan 2026
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.
Please note that this vacancy is subject to Agenda for Change banding and the official banding has not yet been confirmed.
NHS Employees should secure their manager’s agreement for a secondment arrangement ideally prior to applying, as this will be a condition of any offer made. This vacancy is offered on a fixed term basis to provide temporary cover and maintain service continuity during staff absences. The contract is for 12 months. Whilst the temporary post is advertised on an acting / secondment basis there is the potential that this post may become permanent in the future.
The InterimHeadofCommunicationsand Engagementwillplayanimportantroleinhelpingtodevelopandimprovethedevelopmentanddeliveryofproactive,innovativeandprofessionallyledinternalandexternal communications.
The Head of Communications and Engagementwill compassionatelylead a smallteamofspecialistswhowill deliverameasurableprogrammeofactivitytoallaudiencesacrossarangeofcommunications channels in line with the departmental and Trust objectives.
What we’re looking for:
• A proven compassionate leader with experience in communications, strong media management, someone who loves a 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 focussed on effectively engaging with stakeholder.s
Why join us?
• 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.
Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are the proud providers of acute hospital and community services to the people of the Wigan Borough and surrounding areas. At WWL, we value our staff believing that ‘happy staff, makes for happy patients’. We have a recognised track record in staff engagement, and living our values’.
WWL are committed to placing the patient at the heart of everything we do, and in the provision of safe, effective care that acknowledges and ensures dignity. With this in mind we are seeking to recruit people who share our values and beliefs.
At WWL we value the benefits a rich and diverse workforce brings to our community and therefore welcome applications from all sections of society.
Key results from the job holder
Including what has been outlined above, the Interim Head of Communications and Engagement will line manage the communications team and will be expected to ensure the team delivers the full aims and objectives of the service, including:
· 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 Departmentsupports the Trust by focusing its efforts on:
Changing behavioursby encouraging people to lead healthier and safer lives
Operational effectivenessof services by informing people about access and availability and involving them in service re-design. Helping to fulfil obligations to involve, engage or consult
Reputationof the organisation and fulfilling statutory warning and informing duties
Equitably explainingpolicies, 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. These are frequently developed and delivered in partnership with other organisations across Wigan or Greater Manchester.
Internal communications and staff engagement– engages staff by connecting them and creating commitment to organisational objectives; understanding evolving aims and changing culture; creating belonging to the organisation and support for delivering priorities; being aware of the changing environment. Deliverables include managing the intranet, producing newsletters, information and events for staff.
Media, digital and social media– proactive and reactive handling of media; relationship management; creation of content, insight and audience evaluation; and management of channel output including the website, social media channels and other means of communication.
External affairs and public engagement– managing critical stakeholder relationships, listening to gather insight and intelligence; horizon scanning; two-way dialogue to develop and explain policies, programmes and approaches; involving audiences in co-creation, consulting on options for change.
Planning and Organisational Duties
Internal
· Delivery of a strategic, two-way internal communications approach that keeps staff engaged and informed. The approach will be aimed at helping staff to feel valued, involved and with a shared understanding of the Trust’s mission, vision, values and goals.
· 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.
· Assist with developing communication links and strong relationships are developed with
· all service divisions. Design systems to ensure each division has an equal opportunity to develop its internal and external profile and promote services.
External
· Ensure delivery of the Trust communications strategy is implemented from the routine through to the most demanding of situations where information is highly complex, sensitive or contentious.
· Assist with advising on media strategy and handling in order to ensure positive outcomes for the Trust. To include ensuring that the Trust’s views are appropriately represented at all times, by overseeing press releases, interviews, consultation responses, statements and briefings, and arranging media training for key individuals.
· Support the implementation of an issues and crisis management strategy. Lead on communications for responding to all crises or serious incidents including major incident.
Communications and Key Working Relationships
Internally
· Director of Communications and Stakeholder Management
· Communications Team
· Chief Executive & Executive Directors
· Senior Management Team
· Resilience, Fundraising, Legal & Patient Relations Teams
· Patient Engagement & Service Transformation Teams
· Staff Experience & Staff Side
· All Trust staff
Externally
· Media outlets and journalists (local, regional, national, and PR agencies)
· MPs and public sector partners (Wigan Borough Council)
· Health and social care organisations (including NHS GM, NHS England, CQC)
· Patients, carers, and the public
· Voluntary, third sector, and other relevant bodies
Responsibility for Finance
• To be authorised signatory and support the Director of Communications and Stakeholder Engagement to manage the communications budget as directed in line with Trust Standing Financial Instructions and with efficiency and consideration of value for money
· Managebudget –reviewmonthlyspend,report,delivercostsavingsanddeliverabalancedbudget.
• To oversee the purchase, ordering and stock control of any specific equipment and supplies required to deliver communications projects/campaigns and events
• To ensure value for money from the use of external suppliers through liaison with Procurement as required
• Negotiate with TV and film companies regarding contracts and access fees for filming production, working closely with Trust security and estates teams when required
Responsibility for Human Resources
Play an active part in planning and delivering the work of the communications team
and the line management of the Senior Communications Officers and Communications
Officer roles.
• Undertaking 1:1s and appraisals for direct reports to ensure optimum individual and team working
• Dealing with first line management of sickness, grievances and disciplinary matters
• Attending and maintaining compliance and ensure the Communications Team comply with the Trust mandatory training sessions
• Maintain professional training and educational portfolio in accordance with Trust and Departmental priorities as part of ongoing professional development plan
Responsibility for Health & Safety
Compliance with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 – the post holder is required to fulfil a proactive role towards the management of risk in all of their actions. This entails the risk assessment of all situations, the taking of appropriate actions and reporting of all incidents, near misses and hazards, and a statutory duty of care for their own personal safety and that of others who may be affected by their acts or omissions.
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.
This advert closes on Wednesday 7 Jan 2026