Communications and Engagement Lead (Jarrow)

South Tyneside Council; Jarrow, South Shields; On-site; GBP 42,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority seeks a Communications and Engagement Lead to spearhead communications for a significant regeneration project in Jarrow. You will craft and manage narratives, engage stakeholders, and maintain relationships while ensuring effective communication with residents. This role requires a seasoned professional skilled in strategic thinking, content creation, and media relations. You will have a vital role in shaping community engagement and promoting positive stories about the project.

Benefits

Excellent benefits package

Qualifications

• Experienced communications professional with strong stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage complex relationships and deliver integrated campaigns.
• Proven ability to craft engaging, audience-focused content across multiple platforms.

Responsibilities

• Lead a multi-channel communications and engagement strategy.
• Shape and manage the narrative of the regeneration programme.
• Drive proactive engagement with residents and stakeholders.

Skills

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic thinking

Content creation

Media relations

Job description

Communications and Engagement Lead (Jarrow)

(Town Hall, South Shields and location TBC in Jarrow)

£41,771 pa

Are you ready to lead communications for one of the most ambitious regeneration projects in the region? We’re looking for a dynamic Communications and Engagement Lead to work with Jarrow Forward Town Board to shape the narrative and deliver all aspects of communications for a landmark £20 million regeneration project funded by the UK Government.

Jarrow has much to boast about already – from its historic and cultural significance to its community spirit and resilience – Jarrow Forward Town Board need a communications expert to tell Jarrow residents and audiences further afield about the great work already happening and the exciting changes to come.

About the Role

Reporting to Jarrow Forward Town Board — an independent board comprising of schools, health services, police, community organisations, businesses, the Council, and the local MP — you’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring transparency, building trust, and fostering engagement with residents, stakeholders and partners.

The Council acts as the accountable body for the project and will provide you with the support needed to succeed in this high‑profile role.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver a multi‑channel, multi‑audience communications and engagement strategy for the Jarrow Forward project.
• Shape and manage the narrative of the regeneration programme, ensuring clear, consistent messaging.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with the Town Board and partners including Government departments.
• Drive proactive engagement with residents and stakeholders to ensure their voices are heard throughout the ten‑year plan.
• Respond effectively to media enquiries and promote positive stories about the project’s impact.

About You

• You’ll be an experienced communications professional with:
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to manage complex relationships.
• Strong strategic thinking and the ability to deliver integrated campaigns.
• A proactive approach to identifying opportunities for positive publicity and managing media relations.
• An experienced content creator with a proven ability to craft engaging, audience‑focused content across multiple platforms to drive interaction and build brand presence.

If you are passionate about running campaigns that achieve engagement from all communities – including those communities that are seldom heard; have extensive experience of creating brand building content to engage with a variety of audiences across multiple channels; have a desire to work on a campaign that will make a real difference to lives; we would love to hear from you.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of Jarrow. You’ll be at the heart of a transformative project that will shape the community for generations to come.

Find Out More

The Chair of Jarrow Forward has provided additional information in a letter that can be viewed in supporting documents.

For any additional information including arranging an informal discussion about the role with the Chair of Jarrow Forward, please contact Jane Burns, Senior Communications Engagement Officer on [e-mail].

Interviews are anticipated to take place first week of February.

We offer an excellent benefits package and further information is available here - www.southtyneside.gov.uk/workinghere

We do not currently offer skilled worker visa sponsorship.

To view our Privacy Notice please visit: https://southtyneside.gov.uk/article/2780/Privacy-notice-for-job-applicants

Please note that if you apply for this role, all communication regarding your application will be sent to the email address that you have registered with North East Jobs, please ensure you check your junk mail.

Closing date: Noon, Monday 19 January 2026.