Job Description

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About The Role

This an exciting opportunity to join Runnymede Borough Council as we continue our positive work on Local Government Reorganisation collaborating with our Surrey partners and developing the communications campaigns for the promotion of local elections in May 2026 and for the West Surrey Council shadow joint committee as the new local authority takes shape.



This role will involve supporting the Corporate Leadership Team to deliver its vision and strategic priorities by leading, co-ordinating and developing the Council's corporate external and internal communications, as well as service based news campaigns and design activity. You will support consultations within the community for example on housing developments.



You will also be responsible for promoting the Council in the best possible light to through internal and external communications including developing our relationships with the press and social media platforms, particularly with an interest of expanding our reach accross the Runnymede and Surrey community. As the Head of Communications, you will:



Lead, manage and develop the Council's Communications Team, driving best practice and continuous improvement. Act as the Council's expert advisor on all communications, providing strategic guidance to Members, Corporate and Senior Leadership teams and all officers across the Council. Champion and protect the Council's reputation through proactive media management and effective crisis communication. Develop and deliver communication plans, campaigns, and visual content that promote the Council's priorities. Manage internal and external communication channels, including intranet, social media, newsletters, and publications. Oversee corporate branding, design standards, and ensure high-quality, consistent communications across all materials. Evaluate communications performance, ensuring strategies are impactful, professional, and value for money. Model the Council's values by promoting equality, transparency, professionalism, and collaborative leadership.

Benefits

Hybrid working 3 days in the office, 2 days working from home Flexible working and Flexi-leave 29 Days annual leave, plus bank holidays Excellent Pension Scheme Free Parking Training and development opportunities Payment of one professional membership per annum Cycle to work + further related discounts Season ticket loan Health insurance plan after 1 years' service/ Dental after 3 years' service Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Advert closes at 12 noon on Friday 6th February 2026

Interviews: Thursday 12th February 2026

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About You

We're looking for a confident communications professional who can bring expertise and creativity to shape impactful campaigns, manage digital platforms, and work effectively in a political environment. The successful candidate will demonstrate a willingness to attend occasional evening meetings (e.g. Council Committees) and have confidence operating in a political environment and ensuring compliance with legislation.

Essential Knowledge and experience for the role:

A degree or professional qualification in Communications, Marketing or Journalism Local government experience Experience managing website development with internal/external designers Line management experience, with the ability to plan and prioritise work A track record of delivering strong, consistent organisational branding Experience designing and evaluating communications and marketing campaigns Strong CMS experience and expert use of social media Excellent Plain English communication skills The ability to engage effectively at all levels Strong multi?tasking skills

Desirable:

Project management qualification

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About Runnymede

Runnymede is an ambitious, passionate, and progressive council with a forward- thinking attitude and award-winning departments. As a Borough Council, we are committed to our core values which we demonstrate through our ongoing policies and projects. We are always keen to improve our services and welcome innovative and proactive individuals who are open minded and have a positive approach in supporting our vision.



Runnymede Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults with care support needs and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. You may be requested to present your identification at the interview stage and there will be several checks conducted during the onboarding process inclusive of an enhanced DBS check for specified roles.



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