Job Description
Job summary The Head of Communications and Engagement is a pivotal role within the SEL ICB, responsible for leading the delivery of the Communications & Engagement (C&E) strategy across two boroughs in south east London. The postholder will serve as the first point of contact for all strategic communications and engagement advice in their boroughs, ensuring the effective implementation of local care partnership plans and SEL ICB priorities. This role involves close collaboration with stakeholders, managing public relations, and ensuring compliance with statutory duties to engage with local communities. Main duties of the job Key Responsibilities: o Strategic leadership: Lead the delivery of the SEL ICB C&E strategy across two boroughs, embedding the approach at the local level while ensuring alignment with the broader south east London C&E Reputation management: Proactively manage the reputation of the ICB, ICS, and local NHS through strategic communications and engagement activities, including crisis management and media Stakeholder engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including Healthwatch, voluntary, and community sector teams. Ensure that all engagement activities are inclusive and address the needs of marginalised and under-served Programme support: Provide expert advice on strategic communications and engagement for Local Care Partnerships (LCPs). Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of borough-wide engagement plans and Team leadership: Lead and manage the communications and engagement team within the two boroughs, providing guidance, leadership, and performance management. Foster a culture of collaboration and continuous Project management: Manage the production and distribution of high-quality communication materials, ensuring consistency with the SEL ICB brand. Oversee the delivery of engagement activities, including events, publications, and digital content. About us The south east London Integrated Care Board (SEL ICB) is dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of communities across London. We work collaboratively with local care partnerships, health, social care providers, and the voluntary sector to ensure that residents receive high-quality, accessible services tailored to their needs. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Communications and Engagement to lead our work in Bromley and Lewisham. Job description Job responsibilities Please see attached a Job description and Person Specification for this role with key duties and responsibilities. Qualifications and Experience: Proven experience in a senior communications and engagement role, preferably within the healthcare sector or public service. Strong leadership and management skills, with experience in leading teams and managing complex projects. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present information clearly to a range of audiences. Experience in stakeholder management and building relationships with diverse groups, including marginalized communities. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make informed decisions under pressure. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of communities in south east London. You will be at the forefront of delivering high-quality communications and engagement strategies, working with a dedicated team to ensure that the voices of local residents are heard and acted upon. Person Specification Education / qualifications Essential Educated to masters level or equivalent level of experience working at a senior level in a specialist area Evidence of ongoing personal and Professional development Experience Essential Experience of leading a communications and engagement function in a similar organisation. Significant experience of delivering communication and engagement activities in a health or care organisation Experience of working with partners from other organisations and influencing to deliver without a line management relationship Experience of working with the media, managing difficult news stories and handling strategic and sensitive issues Experience of developing, implementing and evaluating communications and engagement strategies, plans, campaigns and projects. Experience of the full range of communications techniques from traditional print media to targeted social media and digital channels. Experience of managing and motivating staff. Experience of using resident insight to improve services and outcomes. Experience of working in partnership to deliver outcomes with key stakeholders including NHS organisations and local government. Experience of working to meet competing deadlines in a complex environment. Skills and abilities Essential Excellent written and verbal communications skills; ability to synthesise complex information to create clear messages or products Able to horizon scan to identify risks or opportunities which would benefit/ require a communication or engagement response and proactively prepare for that Ability to produce engaging content aimed at a range of audiences using the full range of communications channels. Ability to effectively network and build relationships at all levels and work with a wide range of stakeholders and colleagues Ability to convey complex ideas and concepts concisely and accurately. Excellent time management skills; able to effectively prioritise and work under tight timeframes Ability to work autonomously and assume high levels of responsibility