Public Affairs and Communications Lead

Wiltshire Police; Devizes; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Wiltshire Police seeks a Public Affairs and External Engagement Lead to enhance community engagement and media relations. The role involves leading a multi-skilled team in delivering impactful communications and requires strong leadership, communication, and media relations skills. This opportunity offers career development and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Hybrid working

Free Gym membership

Generous Pension scheme

Qualifications

• Proven experience in communications, public relations, or journalism.
• Strong leadership and planning abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the media and external engagement team.
• Plan and deliver high-quality communications around operations.
• Develop and implement communication strategies.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Public Engagement

Media Relations

Job description

At Wiltshire Police, we are dedicated to making our community a safer place for everyone. Our team is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and service. We believe in creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every member can thrive and make a meaningful impact. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance, Wiltshire Police offers a range of opportunities to grow and develop. Join us and be part of a team that values courage, compassion, and dedication to public service. Help us to keep Wiltshire safe.

We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer, and we’re committed to building an inclusive, diverse community that celebrates and welcomes everyone.
If there are any adjustments we could make to the recruitment and selection process to support you, please let us know

Salary: W10 £45,114-£47,607 & on-call allowance enhancement

About the role

Do you have a passion for impactful storytelling and public engagement? Are you a strategic thinker with a sharp news sense and strong leadership skills? Wiltshire Police is looking for aPublic Affairs and External Engagement Leadto join our Corporate Communications and Engagement Department.

As the leader for the Media and External Engagement Team, you will play a vital role in managing a multi-skilled team responsible for delivering professional, engaging, and effective external communications. You'll ensure our media output aligns with the Force's priorities, values, and the College of Policing’s Authorised Professional Practice (APP).

This is an opportunity to shape how Wiltshire Police engages with the public and the media, enhances trust and confidence, and supports frontline policing through innovative and transparent communications. You’ll be part of a forward-thinking and inclusive organisation that values innovation, transparency, and public service.

This is your chance to lead a high-profile team and make a real impact on how we serve and engage our communities. You'll also play a key part within our Leadership team ensuring a high potential of personal development.

What you will be doing

• Lead and coordinate the day-to-day work of the media and external engagement team
• Plan and deliver high-quality communications around operations, criminal cases, and organisational activity
• Monitor all current and public affairs which might impact on policing and create innovative and engaging responses to inform our local position
• Develop and implement communication strategies that actively engage officers, staff, stakeholders, media, and the public.
• Foster best practice in media relations and ensure consistent support for operational policing
• Promote the stories of our officers, staff, and volunteers to humanise and highlight the breadth of our service.

About you and your experience

• Proven experience in communications, public relations, or journalism
• Strong leadership and planning abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• A deep understanding of media relations, public engagement, and crisis communications.
• The ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities
• An interest in current and public affairs.

What we offer

• Excellent career development opportunities
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising to 30 days
• Hybrid working
• Flexi hours scheme
• Free Gym membership
• Physical and mental well-being support
• Generous Pension scheme

Shortlisting will take place on July 8th. Interviews will be held on July 15th & 16th.

Please note, all roles will be subject to a vetting procedure, some roles due to the nature of their work, will require additional security clearance.

Depending on the number of applications received, we reserve the right to close this role early.

We are proud of being a truly inclusive organisation who provides fair and equal consideration to all of our applicants. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, nationalities, disabilities, sexual orientation, religions or beliefs and of neuro divergence.

Important information before you commence an application