Deputy Director of Communications and Engagement

Deputy Director of Communications and Engagement Overview

Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust is seeking an exceptional leader for the role of Deputy Director of Communications and Engagement. This position is pivotal as the Trust embarks on a significant transformation journey, serving nearly one million people across Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey, and South Buckinghamshire. The successful candidate will thrive in complex, fast-paced environments and will be responsible for delivering impactful communications.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the formulation and execution of the Trust’s Communications and Engagement Strategy.
• Lead and nurture a multidisciplinary team focused on communications and engagement through senior leadership roles.
• Provide strategic communications guidance for significant organizational transformation initiatives, including the New Hospital Programme.
• Advise Executive Directors and Board members on matters related to media relations, reputation management, stakeholder engagement, and crisis communications.
• Promote an insight-driven, audience-centric approach to communications, ensuring evaluation and evidence-based practices are integrated throughout the function.
• Facilitate effective engagement with patients, communities, colleagues, partners, elected officials, and other key stakeholders.
• Oversee the Trust’s response to high-profile and politically sensitive communications challenges.

Qualifications and Experience

• Possess a Master’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to ongoing professional development in communications, leadership, or strategy.
• Have substantial senior leadership experience in a complex, politically sensitive organization, ideally at or near the Executive level.
• Show proven experience in designing and implementing complex, multi-channel communications and engagement programs across large organizations.
• Exhibit experience in managing communications during crises or significant issues.
• Have a track record of delivering communications that support cultural change, staff engagement, or organizational development.
• Demonstrate experience in leading communications for major capital projects or transformation initiatives.
• Possess skills in prioritizing and managing resources across competing organizational demands.
• Have experience in directing external research and evaluation programs related to stakeholder perceptions and communications effectiveness.
• Exhibit the ability to advise and influence Executive-level leaders confidently, providing both support and constructive challenge.
• Have experience managing a directorate-level team, including budget and governance responsibilities.
• Show evidence of leading communications during major organizational changes or contentious public issues.

Benefits

• Competitive salary ranging from £96,626 to £111,084 per annum, inclusive of High Cost Area Supplement (HCAS).
• Permanent contract with full-time working hours.
• Support for flexible working arrangements to promote a healthy work-life balance.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion within the workplace.

This role is based at Frimley Park Hospital, Portsmouth Road, Frimley, Camberley, GU16 7UJ, United Kingdom. Applications from job seekers requiring current Skilled Worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications.

Degree Requirement: Not Specified

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