Head of Communications

PCS; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 63,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

A union organization is seeking a Head of Communications to lead communications strategies and manage team dynamics. Applicants should have over 5 years of relevant experience, strong problem-solving skills, and a Bachelor's degree in a related field. The role offers a competitive salary, with opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• 5 years of experience in a communications role within a complex membership organisation.
• Experience in people management and leading teams.
• Evidence of ongoing professional development.

Responsibilities

• Lead on internal and external communications strategies.
• Ensure consistent and positive messaging.
• Manage budget and liaise with suppliers.

Skills

Problem-solving ability

Clear written and oral communication

Negotiation and relationship-building

Strong organisation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism, or related field

Job description

Overview

The communications specialists in the PCS campaigns and communications team are dedicated to delivering up to date services for our members. We are looking for a Head of Communications to lead the team, using up to date tech, design systems and social media engagement to provide the best communications for a diverse audience.

Salary and Location

• Band 5, London Spine points 21-17 or Regional Spine points 23-19
• Starting salary: London £63,279 p.a. rising to £72,098 p.a. or Regional £58,877 p.a. rising to £67,689, in annual increments
• PCS Clapham or Regional office

Responsibilities and Expectations

• Lead on internal and external communications strategies that align with the union's overall goals
• Maintain quality of all communications, ensuring consistent and positive messaging to promote the aims and objectives of the union
• Provide motivational management and development of the team
• Liaise with departmental heads, senior lay officials and other colleagues on a range of communications
• Manage budget, bid preparation and liaison with suppliers

Requirements for Successful Candidates

• Professional experience in a communications field
• Problem-solving ability in crisis or challenging situations
• Understanding of different communications media and how to use them effectively
• Interest in developing communications technology
• A track record of positive collaboration and building strong working relationships

Main Duties

• Lead on internal and external communications strategies that align with the union's overall goals
• Maintain quality of communications with consistent and positive messaging to promote the union's aims
• Provide motivational management and development of the team
• Liaise with departmental heads, senior officials and colleagues on communications matters
• Budget management, bid preparation and supplier liaison

Person Specification: Head of Communications

• Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism, English or related field or equivalent demonstrable experience
• Experience: 5 years in a communications role within a complex membership organisation; people management; leading committees/teams; high level project management; crisis response
• Training: Evidence of ongoing professional development and commitment to appraisal and staff development
• Knowledge: Understanding of UK political processes, trade unions, budget monitoring, equalities law, digital/IT applications in a trade union, bargaining, campaigning and organising
• Skills: Clear written and oral communication; negotiation and relationship-building; setting standards and priorities; strategic and policy implementation advice; strong organisation
• Other: Commitment to equal opportunities; awareness of data protection, health and safety; flexible approach to working outside standard hours

General Information

• Location: PCS Clapham or Regional office
• Contacts: External and Internal stakeholders including PCS members, staff across regions, National and Senior Management Teams
• Equal Opportunities: PCS is committed to equal opportunities and is positive about disabled people; posts can be full-time, part-time or job share

Recruitment Process and How to Apply

Job description reference: Ref 1025. Closing date information and interview dates are provided by PCS; CVs will not be accepted. Applications must be received by the closing date and time specified. Candidates invited for interview should be available on the specified dates. PCS uses CVMinder to manage recruitment activities and is committed to fair and compliant practices.

Notes

About PCS: The Public and Commercial Services Union represents thousands of members in the civil service and related areas.