Join us and make a difference in Devon.
A rare opportunity has arisen for a passionate believer in the power of communications to lead Devon County Council’s External Communications team.
This pivotal role offers a unique opportunity to improve the lives of people across the county.
The council has made significant strides in leveraging digital multi-media in its effort to engage communities and support the council in its ambition to make Devon an even better place to live and work. The successful candidate will build on these efforts and drive transformation further, seeking out opportunities to deliver key messages to communities to support behaviour change programmes and helping those we serve to find the services which can support them.
The role holder will be an enthusiastic believer in the power of communications, have an in-depth knowledge of emerging communications channels, and a record in leading people through significant organisational change. They will have worked closely with media organisations, stakeholders, and partners towards long-term strategic objectives. They will also be agile enough in their behaviours and performance to be able to offer senior leaders professional advice on rapidly emerging issues.
This is Devon
Devon County Council is a large and diverse organisation responsible for a wide range of services, including education, social care, highways, libraries, waste management, public health, and economic development. We collaborate with our partners and communities to make Devon a great place to live, work, and visit.
We are ambitious for Devon and our people. We have a clear vision and strategic plan to guide our actions and decisions. We want to create a prosperous, resilient, and healthy county, where people can fulfil their potential and enjoy a high quality of life. We are committed to tackling the challenges and opportunities that face us, such as climate change, population growth, increased demand on services, and digital transformation.
We are also committed to our principles and behaviours, which shape how we work and interact with each other and our stakeholders. We are honest, respectful, courageous, and solutions focused. We value diversity and inclusion, and we strive to be collaborative, innovative, and accountable. We are proud of our achievements, and we learn from our mistakes. We are always looking for ways to improve and develop ourselves and our services.
This is the role
As the Head of External Communications, you will report directly to the Assistant Director of External and Customer Engagement.
You will be responsible for leading and managing the operational direction of external communications activities, while collaborating with partners, including District Councils, the NHS, blue light services, and independent service providers. You will also be responsible for the work and coordination of the External Communications Managers, ensuring improvements in team performance, accountability, and readiness for public engagement.
You will be responsible for developing communication strategies informed by service-based public and stakeholder relations themes to ensure the delivery of high-quality external communications. Additionally, you will oversee the operational delivery of media and PR, marketing and creative, and social media activities, and manage associated budgets.
Your role will also involve leading the professional development, training, and wellbeing of the External Communications Team, ensuring high-quality communication options are available across the Council.
You will be responsible for managing the service within a total budget responsibility of £772,000, with an income generation target of £235,000.
Proven leadership experience in large and complex organizations is essential, as is expertise in delivering strategic communications and managing a range of partners to create productive and honest conversations. Advocacy, presentation, influencing, and negotiating skills are also crucial.
What we can offer you
We appreciate the adaptability and provide options for remote work, yet we also recognize the significant benefits of maintaining a solid in-office presence. Physical presence fosters superior collaboration, relationship development, and a community feel and is a requirement for this role. We are committed to the health and wellbeing of our staff, and we have a range of initiatives and schemes to help you achieve a healthy work-life balance. If you are passionate about public service and want to make a difference in Devon, we would love to hear from you.
For an informal conversation about the role please contact Assistant Director of Communications and Customer Services Patrick Phelvin
Click ‘Apply Now’ to view the job description and person specification.
1. DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon. More information can be found on our .
2. - The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
3. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
4. This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
5. Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the .
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