Interim Head of Communications & Engagement

VMA Direct.; London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare organisation is seeking a Head of Communications and Engagement to develop and deliver a comprehensive communications strategy. This strategic role focuses on stakeholder engagement, digital strategy, and team leadership, ensuring messaging aligns with NHS transformation.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 days per week presence in the office.
• Expertise in stakeholder engagement and communications.

Responsibilities

• Develop a compelling brand and communications strategy.
• Build relationships with internal teams and NHS partners.
• Lead planning and execution of health awareness campaigns.

Skills

Stakeholder Engagement

Internal Communications

External Communications

Digital Strategy

Team Leadership

Job description

VMA GROUP’s client, a values-led healthcare organisation, is seeking a Head of Communications and Engagement to lead the development and delivery of a comprehensive communications strategy.

This strategic and hands-on leadership role is ideal for someone who thrives in dynamic environments and wants to shape organisational communication during NHS transformation. The candidate should have expertise in stakeholder engagement, internal and external communications, digital strategy, and team leadership.

The role requires immediate availability and a minimum of 3 days per week presence in the office.

The Opportunity

This position is pivotal in fostering a modern, inclusive approach to communications, emphasizing collaboration, clarity, and community. As services move towards integrated, neighbourhood-focused care, the Head of Communications and Engagement will ensure messaging aligns with system-wide changes and resonates with NHS partners, GPs, staff, and patients.

The candidate should be capable of strategic thinking and operational delivery, managing a small team while building strong partnerships internally and externally.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Brand Management
   • Develop a compelling brand and communications strategy aligned with organisational goals.
   • Translate complex service and system developments into clear messages for diverse audiences.
   • Act as brand guardian, ensuring consistency across all channels.
   • Promote achievements and impact through storytelling, media relations, and awards.
2. Stakeholder Engagement & Communications
   • Build and nurture relationships with internal teams, NHS partners, patient groups, and the healthcare ecosystem.
   • Develop and maintain CRM and stakeholder engagement frameworks.
   • Plan and deliver inclusive engagement activities supporting service transformation.
   • Oversee media relations, crisis communications, and PR activities.
   • Collaborate with HR and leadership to ensure staff communications are timely and inclusive.
3. Digital, PR & Content Strategy
   • Oversee digital channels including website, intranet, and social media.
   • Ensure content is audience-centred, relevant, and high-quality.
   • Drive digital communication innovation and use analytics for improvement.
4. Campaigns & Programme Delivery
   • Lead planning and execution of health awareness and social marketing campaigns.
   • Monitor and report on campaign effectiveness with KPIs and evaluation frameworks.
5. Team Leadership & Operational Oversight
   • Manage and support a small communications team, fostering a collaborative culture.
   • Provide guidance and quality control for all outputs.
   • Ensure timely delivery of materials and campaigns aligned with strategic priorities.
6. Monitoring & Evaluation
   • Use insight tools and metrics to evaluate communication effectiveness.
   • Report regularly to senior leaders and governance bodies on progress and risks.
   • Refine strategies based on data and feedback.