Communications and Engagement Manager, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service

Rachel Miller; Llantrisant; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A public safety organization is seeking a Communications and Engagement Manager to lead various communication initiatives. Responsibilities include managing teams, developing engagement strategies, and overseeing stakeholder communications. Ideal candidates should have relevant media qualifications, significant experience in communications, and a strong ability to craft engaging narratives. The role is based at their headquarters in Llantrisant.

Qualifications

• Experience in a busy media and communications team.
• Membership in a professional body.
• Knowledge of internal communications.

Responsibilities

• Lead teams to achieve excellence in communications.
• Create and implement effective communications plans.
• Handle regional and national press relations.

Skills

Media, Communications or Journalism Degree

Managing a team

Developing campaigns

Strategic stakeholder engagement

Writing and storytelling

Education

Degree in Media/Communications or equivalent experience

Job description

Communications and Engagement Manager, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £42,839 – £44,075
Hours of Work: 37 per week
Location: South Wales Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters, Llantrisant
Closing date: Midday, Monday 1 December 2025

This job description refers to the main purpose and responsibilities of the post. It does not necessarily list in detail all of the tasks required to carry out these responsibilities. This job description will be reviewed as and when necessary to ensure that it meets the Service’s business requirements.
Responsible to: Head of Communications and Engagement
Responsible for:
1 x Lead Communications and Engagement Officer
1 x Lead Digital Communications Officer
2 x Graphic Designers
2 x Welsh Translators

See the job description for full information

ESSENTIAL

• ✓ Media, Communications or Journalism Degree and/or equivalent work‑related experience in a media/ communications team or role
• ✓ Member of professional body with commitment to ongoing learning and development (e.g. CIPR, CIM, IoIC, NUJ) Knowledge or experience of:
• ✓ Managing a team and working in a busy media and communications team or press office.
• ✓ Contributing to the development and implementation of a Media and/or Communications and/or Engagement Strategy.
• ✓ Developing campaigns using a defined framework with clear and measurable objectives. ✓ Understand the importance of creating and using strategic narratives, tone of voice and alignment to key Service priorities.
• ✓ Understanding of the role of internal communications with colleagues to build trust, colleague understanding and delivery of Service mission, vision and values.
• ✓ Handling regional and national press and broadcasting media.
• ✓ Organising strategic stakeholder engagement events, in‑house colleague communications events and colleague reward and recognition services.
• ✓ Supporting senior leaders in engaging political and community stakeholders, including preparing briefings, coordinating stakeholder communications, and contributing to public affairs strategies that advance service priorities and enhance organisational reputation.
• ✓ Understand and adopt the National Fire Chiefs Council’s Code of Ethics. Able to deliver key tasks:
• ✓ Understand and apply relevant information to make appropriate decisions in the team which reflect key priorities and requirements for delivery.
• ✓ Lead teams to achieve excellence and share progress through robust measurement data collection, insight and feedback and reporting of success.
• ✓ Create and implement effective communications and media plans (e.g. media and marketing campaigns, media photo calls and launches, local and national events) using a recognised framework to deliver a range of organisational objectives.
• ✓ Is a great writer and storyteller who can distil complex information into content that is relevant and engaging for audiences. Has high attention to detail, able to adapt their writing style as needed and can oversee compliance with in‑house tone of voice and style.
• ✓ Ability to recognise the potential political impact and implications from a strategic perspective and work with others to navigate to a successful outcome.

Apply here