Interim Strategic Communications and Engagement Lead

Morgan Law; Essex; Hybrid; GBP 58,000 - 69,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority near London is seeking an Interim Strategic Communications and Engagement Lead for a hybrid role on a fixed-term contract for 1 year. The position offers a competitive daily rate of £500 via an umbrella company or a salary between £58,332 to £68,626 pro rata. You will lead the development of strategic communications, provide expert advice to senior leaders, and engage with stakeholders across various sectors to achieve the Authority's priorities.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in strategic communications in government or public sector.
• Ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships.
• Expertise in building strong narratives and engaging content.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of the Authority’s strategic communications.
• Provide expert advice on narrative development and media handling.
• Establish the Authority’s brand identity and communication architecture.
• Develop proactive engagement strategies with partners and residents.
• Design and deliver a stakeholder engagement programme.

Skills

Experience leading communications in complex or political environments

Strong understanding of local government and devolution

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Managing media relations

Digital channels and campaigns

High political awareness

Project management skills

Job description

Work for a Local authority near London as an Interim Strategic Communications and Engagement Lead.
Hybrid – FTC 1 year – £500 a day via an umbrella company (inside ir35) or £58,332 to £68,626 pro rata.

Purpose of the Role

• Lead the development of the Authority’s strategic communications, public affairs and stakeholder engagement functions, ensuring alignment with organisational and mayoral priorities.
• Provide expert advice to senior leaders on narrative development, reputational risk and media handling.
• Establish the Authority’s brand identity, voice and communications architecture.
• Develop proactive engagement strategies that build strong relationships with partners, residents and national bodies.
• Build partnerships and work across the public, private, and not‑for‑profit sectors to drive inward investment, secure funding from government, and ensure value for money in all financial commitments.

Strategic Communications Leadership

• Develop and implement communications strategy.
• Lead creation of compelling narratives and campaigns.
• Advise senior leaders on reputational risk and crisis communications.
• Ensure coherent messaging and brand identity across all channels.

Stakeholder Engagement & Public Affairs

• Design and deliver stakeholder engagement programme.
• Support parliamentary and government engagement.
• Represent the authority at regional and national forums.

Media Relations & Digital Presence

• Act as primary media contact.
• Lead digital presence and online engagement.
• Commission and manage external agencies.
• Ensure compliance with accessibility and transparency standards.

Internal Communications & Culture

• Lead internal communications to support staff engagement and culture.
• Work with HR to embed values and behaviours.
• Develop internal channels and feedback mechanisms.

What we look for

• Experience leading communications in complex or political environments.
• Strong understanding of local government and devolution.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience managing media relations, digital channels and campaigns.
• High political awareness and ability to build trust with senior stakeholders.
• Strong project management skills.

What we offer

• Salary: £500 a day via an umbrella company (inside ir35) or £58,332 to £68,626 pro rata.
• 5 days week – 37.5 hours.
• FTC 1 year.