You will join the Communications & Engagement team which works to directly support services in their policy making and delivery, in order to improve outcomes for residents and ultimately deliver the council's overarching ambition that no one is left behind.Our team is full of variety and opportunity. We look out for each other, socialise and enjoy flexible working, so you will always feel supported and part of the Communications & Engagement family, with a good work life balance.About the RoleA strategic leader of the Communications Team, this role manages the Senior Communications Managers aligning to SCC service directorates and is responsible for the Council's reputation and external affairs, as well as the delivery of the Communications Strategy. This role is part of the Communications Senior Leadership Team, deputises for the Director of Communications when required, and has a shared responsibility for the day-to-day running of the Communications Team with the Head of Brand & Marketing.Shortlisting CriteriaTo be shortlisted to interview for this position your application will clearly evidence:

• Responsible for setting and delivering the Communications Strategy
• Responsible for all external messaging, content and media handling for the council
• Responsible for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Communications & Engagement workstream
• Leads the review and development of the communications function across the organisation
• Acts as key liaison between Cabinet Members and officers, regarding corporate narrative, communications priorities and strategy, and external communications advice
• Key conduit of information between the directorate communications teams and the Director of Communications
• Shared responsibility for monitoring CPA&E budget, alongside Head of Brand & Marketing
  
  TopA stronger future for SurreyCentral government is holding a consultation about the proposed plans for devolution and local government reorganisation.This will help government to understand what residents, businesses and other stakeholders think about the changes in Surrey.
  
  DescriptionWe are committed to the development of our workforce. This position is only available to applicants who already work for Surrey County Council. We thank you for your interest in our roles and would encourage you to review our vacancies which are open to all.The starting salary for this role is £79,260 per annum, based on a 36 working hour week.We are hiring Head of Communicationsto join our Communications Team. We are looking for someone with a real passion for communications with a proven track record of outstanding leadership, political judgement and external affairs handling, as well as a strategic mindset to deliver the communications strategy for Surrey County Council (SCC).Rewards and Benefits
• 26 days' holiday (prorated for part time staff), rising to 28 days after 2 years' service and 31 days after 5 years' service
• Annual leave allowance (for bank) or remove for term time
• Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
• An extensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
• Up to 5 days of carer's leave per year
• Paternity, adoption and dependents leave
• A generous local government salary related pension
• Lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, shopping and many more
• 2 paid volunteering days per year
• Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources