Head Of External Relations (Communications)

Positive Employment is currently recruiting for a Head of External Relations for our client, a local government organisation based in Cheshire.

The successful post holder will provide strategic advice to the Mayor on public policy, external relations and communications, while developing and maintaining productive relationships with stakeholders, partner organisations, government departments and other public sector bodies.

Working at a senior level, the post holder will support the Mayor and senior leadership team in delivering key priorities, projects and initiatives, lead stakeholder engagement, provide media advice and act as a trusted adviser on high–profile and sensitive issues.

This role is a temporary contract with an initial contract length of 12 months with the possibility to extend. Hybrid working TBC but likely 2 days onsite 3 remote.

Duties and Responsibilities but not limited to:

• Provide strategic advice to the Mayor on public policy, external relations and communications.
• Develop and maintain productive relationships with stakeholders, partner organisations, government departments and other public sector bodies.
• Support the Mayor and senior leadership team in delivering key priorities, projects and initiatives.
• Lead on stakeholder engagement and build positive relationships with opinion formers and key influencers.
• Provide responsive and proactive media advice in a fast–moving political environment.
• Act as a spokesperson for the Mayor when required.
• Support elected members and senior officers in their roles as media representatives.
• Work closely with communications colleagues to ensure joined–up messaging and effective engagement activity.
• Act as a problem solver and trusted adviser on high–profile and sensitive issues.
• Provide strategic counsel and advice across external relations, public affairs and communications activity.
• Manage complex external relationships and support effective coordination across stakeholders and partners.
• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the responsibilities of the role.

Personal Requirements:

• Significant experience in external relations, public affairs, strategic communications or stakeholder engagement.
• Experience advising senior leaders, elected officials or political stakeholders.
• Strong project management and strategic planning skills.
• Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to build effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders and partners.
• Strong analytical and critical–thinking capabilities.
• Knowledge and experience gained across public and/or private sector environments.
• Ability to operate credibly and confidently at a senior level.
• Ability to provide strategic advice and respond effectively to high–profile and sensitive issues.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast–moving political environment.
• Master's degree, or equivalent relevant experience.

Working Hours: 36 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

Pay: GBP500.00 per day.

Please note this role is within the scope of IR35.