Director of Communications

Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust; Frimley; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare organization in the UK is seeking a dynamic Director of Communications and Engagement to lead a strategic communications team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in communications leadership and stakeholder engagement, with a focus on enhancing public confidence and media sentiment. This role will offer a chance to significantly impact board-level decisions and drive organizational strategy.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in strategic communications and leadership.
• Proven capability in crisis management and stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver a Trust-wide communications strategy.
• Act as principal advisor to CEO and Board on communication matters.
• Lead media relations and crisis management.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Crisis management

Media relations

Job description

Job overview

Are you an inspiring leader with a passion for strategic communications and engagement?

Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a dynamic Director of Communications and Engagement to join our senior leadership team. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, you’ll lead a high-performing, multi-disciplinary team, shaping and delivering an integrated communications strategy that supports our vision for modern, compassionate care.

You’ll act as principal advisor on all communications, reputation, and engagement matters, building trusted relationships with key partners and stakeholders, and driving measurable improvements in engagement, media sentiment, and public confidence. If you’re ready to make a significant impact at board level and help position FHFT as a centre of excellence, we want to hear from you

Main duties of the job

• Strategic Leadership: Accountable for developing and delivering a Trust-wide communications and engagement strategy aligned with national priorities and major capital programmes, providing targeted advice and leadership around strategic change.
• Board-Level Influence: Principal advisor to CEO and Board on all communications, engagement, and reputation matters with delegated authority for decision-making.
• Risk and Reputation Management: Leading proactive media relations, crisis management, and complex stakeholder engagement to protect and enhance the Trust’s brand.
• System and Stakeholder Engagement: Managing relationships across the health and care system including NHS England, ICBs, regional bodies, political stakeholders, and the community.
• Operational Leadership: Direct responsibility for a large, specialist communications team and significant budgetary oversight.
• Regulatory and Corporate Governance: Ensuring compliance with legal, regulatory, and NHS standards across all communications activities.