Strategic Communications Manager

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a highly strategic, politically aware and proactive communications professional who can provide clear leadership, expert advice and high‑quality communications support across Wealden District Council. The ideal person will be an articulate, confident and engaging communicator who can influence senior leaders, work collaboratively with colleagues across all directorates, and build constructive relationships with elected members, media, partners and the public. They will bring creativity, resilience, an audience‑first mindset, and the ability to operate effectively in a complex political environment while championing Wealden's values of integrity, openness, and positive organisational culture.

What will the role involve?

The role involves leading, developing and implementing the council's strategic communications approach, ensuring internal and external audiences are well informed, engaged and connected to the organisation's priorities. This includes preparing and delivering communication plans, managing media activity, overseeing branding and digital communication, producing high‑quality content, advising senior leaders, and leading the council's communications response during emergencies or critical incidents. The post also manages a communications team, works closely with internal and external stakeholders, and contributes to public affairs, reputation management, change communications and organisational culture-building. The role operates on a hybrid working basis and sits within the People and Organisational Development Directorate.

What skills, knowledge and abilities do you require for the role?

The role requires substantial experience in journalism, marketing, public relations or a related field, combined with a strong understanding of local government issues and the effective use of varied communication channels including press, social media, digital content and emerging technologies. Candidates must demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, political awareness, strategic thinking under pressure, and the ability to interpret complex information for varied audiences. Essential abilities include creative thinking, stakeholder management, campaign planning, digital literacy, and the capacity to lead, develop and motivate a team while upholding Wealden's values, governance standards, equalities commitments and data protection responsibilities. A good standard of education, ideally supported by a relevant degree or professional qualification, is also required.

What do we offer?

• Competitive salary & pension scheme.
• Incremental progression subject to satisfactory performance.
• A friendly, supportive team.
• Opportunities for continuing professional development.
• Hybrid working.
  
  For more information
  
  For more information and an informal chat about opportunities please contact
  
  About Wealden
  
  Wealden District Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
  
  We are committed to maintaining a diverse workforce and an inclusive work environment. We value the differences that people bring from all backgrounds and communities, and all applications will be treated on merit.
  
  We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. At Wealden District Council, we are committed to fair, accessible recruitment and supporting colleagues with the adjustments they need to thrive. Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria are guaranteed an interview. Join a workplace that values inclusion, wellbeing and equal opportunity.
  
  Ethical Use of AI in Applications
  
  We welcome innovation and do not automatically exclude candidates who use AI tools during the application process. However, we assess each application to ensure the candidate genuinely understands the role and its requirements.
  
  AI may be used ethically and responsibly, provided it supports, rather than compromises our core values of integrity, transparency, and fairness. During assessments and interviews, candidates must present their own skills and experience without assistance from others, external resources, or AI, unless explicitly instructed otherwise.