Head of External Communications 10 views

The Head of External Communications is responsible for developing and delivering a consistent, effective and measurable external communications strategy and for overseeing DVSA external communications plans. This will ensure customers and stakeholders are informed about, understand and can engage with DVSA’s strategic direction, policies and programmes, raising DVSA’s profile.

You will do this by directly managing external communications activities that promote, enhance and protect DVSA’s reputation, ensuring that all activities are aligned to DVSA strategic direction.

As a corporate senior leader (CSL) you will also work in collaboration with other leaders across DVSA to help shape the longer term aims of the business; developing the culture, mission, vision, values and behaviours.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:   

• Develop, manage and implement a multi-channelled external communications strategy to support DVSA’s strategic direction and align with DfT Communications Strategy.
• Create communications strategies and plans that will allow DVSA to enhance meaningful relationships with targeted, external audiences, media and key influencers, to favourably position DVSA.
• Lead the development and delivery of a highly effective, professional and creative external communications function, ensuring the preparation and implementation of an external communications strategy and plan for DVSA. Oversee the effective co-ordination, preparation and delivery of clear and timely messages to external stakeholders and audiences.
• Set standards for external communications across DVSA and ensure they are aligned to Government Communications Service requirements. Ensure external communications activity is monitored so that the service is continuously improved.
• As subject matter expert, provide sound external communications advice to directors and corporate senior leaders on communications strategy, risks and opportunities.
• Manage a team of strategic communications managers whose primary focus is on external communications.
• Oversee the effective delivery of a proactive and reactive press office, in line with DVSA, Departmental and Government requirements.
• Communicate with all major stakeholders (external) to achieve business objectives.

For more information about the role and responsibilities please see the attached Candidate Pack. 

To thrive in this role, you have an excellent understanding of external communications channels, techniques and approaches. You have experience of managing a press office in a complex and fast-moving environment. You have a proven track record of formulating and implementing communications strategies and plans, delivering on key outputs. You can successfully translate big picture approaches to practical implementation plans. You have proven experience of senior customer and supplier relationship management.

As an excellent communicator, you can demonstrate skills and experience of producing high level written and verbal communication products. You have exceptional stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to create and maintain positive relationships and networks with a wide range of people. You are adaptable and flexible, with the ability to adjust to the requirements and strategic direction of the business.

If not already held, there will be a development opportunity for the successful applicant to work towards a professional qualification in communications (such as CIPR, PRCA or CIM). Applicants will be required to demonstrate a willingness to work towards the qualification.

Additional Information

This role can be based in Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Newcastle, Nottingham or Swansea, your presence at one of these locations will form part of the working arrangements agreed with you. We operate a hybrid working model giving you greater flexibility about where and when you work. Our expectation is that you will spend a minimum 60% of your time at your base location. Visits to other DVSA sites or work locations count towards this.

This vacancy will require the successful applicant to travel to other DVSA sites on occasions, including overnight stays.

Whilst we welcome applications from those looking to work with us on a part time basis, there is a business requirement, for the successful candidate to be able to work at least 32 hours per week.

Please take note that DVSA does not hold a UK Visa & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker Licence sponsor and are unable to sponsor any individuals for Skilled Worker Sponsorship.