Head of Communications and Engagement (Interim)

Wrightington, Wigan & Leigh NHS Foundation Trust; Wigan; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare organization in the United Kingdom is seeking an Interim Head of Communications and Engagement. This role involves leading a skilled team to develop effective strategies for enhanced community and patient engagement, while also managing media relations and crisis communication. The ideal candidate will be a compassionate leader with experience in strategic planning and stakeholder engagement. The position offers a fixed-term contract of 12 months with potential for permanence.

Benefits

Supportive team environment

Opportunity to innovate in communications

Qualifications

• Proven experience in communications and effective media management.
• Ability to engage stakeholders and enhance community relations.
• Experience in leading a communication program across disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the communications team to deliver effective strategies.
• Implement and maintain the Trust's narrative and branding.
• Support crisis communication and reputational management.
• Develop communication strategies across various platforms.
• Manage communications budget and procurement.

Skills

Compassionate leadership

Media management

Strategic planning

Stakeholder engagement

Communication program development

Job description

Job Title: Interim Head of Communications and Engagement

Location: Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Role brief:
Lead and inspire a skilled communications and engagement team. Develop and deliver strategies that strengthen staff, patient and community engagement. Shape the future of communications at WWL, exploring new approaches and technologies, including AI. Champion the Trust’s values, ensuring every message reflects care, inclusion and excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Line manage the communications team, ensuring delivery of a measurable programme of activity to all audiences across a range of communication channels.
• Implement the Trust narrative, messages, positioning and branding.
• Assist with reputational management, media relations, and crisis communication.
• Develop and oversee internal and external communication strategies, including the intranet, newsletters, events, website and social media.
• Support the implementation of issues and crisis management strategies.
• Manage communications budget and procurement of equipment, supplies and external suppliers.

What we’re looking for

• A proven compassionate leader with experience in communications and strong media management.
• Creative, strategic and passionate about making a difference.
• A collaborative professional who values the Wigan Borough community and engages stakeholders effectively.
• Experience in planning, leading, and developing a communication program across multiple disciplines (marketing, internal communication, digital, and external affairs).

Why join us?

• Be part of a Trust that values innovation, compassion and teamwork.
• Help shape communications during a transformative period.
• Work with a supportive team committed to outstanding care.

Contract details

Fixed‐term, 12‑month contract. This temporary post may become permanent. NHS Employees should secure manager’s agreement for a secondment arrangement prior to applying.

Opening date

The advert closes on Wednesday 7 Jan 2026.