Senior Community Engagement and Communications Officer at Christchurch Town Council

Dorset Council; Hurn; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Hurn is seeking a dynamic professional to lead community engagement and communications work. The role involves developing communication strategies, managing digital platforms, and fostering relationships with residents and businesses. Candidates should possess strong communication skills, creativity, and the ability to handle multiple projects. The position offers a collaborative environment, opportunities for professional development, and promotes work-life balance.

Benefits

Opportunities for professional development

Flexible working arrangements

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Natural communicator and people person.
• Confident in finding creative ways to engage the community.
• Proficient in managing websites and social media.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver communication strategies.
• Manage and update digital platforms including website and social media.
• Design and implement community engagement strategies.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Creativity in community engagement

Digital savvy

Strong organizational skills

Proactive approach

Ability to build relationships

Job description

Christchurch Town Council is looking for a dynamic and creative professional to lead our community engagement and communications work. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact in a historic town with a vibrant community, helping us connect with residents, businesses, and visitors.

What you'll be doing

In this role, you'll take the lead in developing and delivering communication strategies that promote the Council’s services and initiatives. You'll manage and update our digital platforms, including the website, social media channels, and email communications, ensuring content is timely, accurate, and engaging. You’ll also create press releases, newsletters, and promotional materials that reflect our brand and messaging, while coordinating publicity for events, consultations, and campaigns. Community engagement will be at the heart of your work. You'll design and implement strategies to strengthen relationships with residents, businesses, and stakeholders, and you’ll organise consultations and surveys to ensure local voices are heard. Building strong partnerships with local organisations and supporting collaborative initiatives will be key. Additionally, you’ll oversee the Christchurch tourism website and social media presence, encouraging local businesses to participate. As part of your responsibilities, you’ll provide line management to the Marketing Assistant and act as a communications advisor to councillors.

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for someone who is a natural communicator and a people person—someone who can build trust and positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. You’ll be creative and confident in finding new ways to engage the community, with a flair for writing and storytelling that brings our work to life. Strong organisational skills and the ability to juggle multiple projects are essential, as is a proactive, solution‑focused approach to challenges. You’ll need to be digitally savvy, comfortable managing websites and social media, and able to interpret data to improve engagement. A calm and professional manner when dealing with the public and press is important, along with resilience and adaptability in a fast‑paced environment. Above all, you’ll be enthusiastic about making a difference in Christchurch, with a positive attitude and a commitment to inclusivity and collaboration.

Why work for Christchurch Town Council?

small, supportive team: You’ll be part of a close‑knit, collaborative team where your contributions are valued, and your ideas can make a real impact
community‑focused: Work directly with residents, councillors, and local groups to improve public spaces and services
varied role: No two days are the same! This is a hands‑on, dynamic position with a mix of practical tasks and strategic input
professional development: Opportunities to grow your skills through training and involvement in diverse projects
work‑life balance: Flexible working arrangements and a commitment to staff wellbeing
beautiful location: Help care for one of Dorset’s most historic and scenic towns. Ready to make a difference? Apply today and be part of Christchurch’s journey to a brighter future.