Head of Communications and Engagement (Interim)
| Posting date: | 24 December 2025 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £55,690.00 to £62,682.00 per year |
| Additional salary information: | £55690.00 - £62682.00 a year |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 07 January 2026 |
| Location: | Wigan, W1 2NN |
| Company: | NHS Jobs |
| Job type: | Contract |
| Job reference: | C9302-25-0604 |
Summary
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 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. 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 Trusts 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 Trusts 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 Manage budget review monthly spend, report, deliver cost savings and deliver a balanced budget. 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.