Job Description

Job Introduction

Do you want to make a real difference to people's lives and help shape one of the most ambitious people-focused programmes in the UK?


At the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), we are looking for a Senior Health & Communities Manager to lead our bold work on mental health and health inequalities - putting health at the centre of everything we do, from housing and transport to skills and economic growth.


This is your chance to shape the future of this partnership for healthier communities in the West Midlands. You'll work alongside senior leaders locally and nationally, influence policy at the highest levels, and be part of a mission-driven team determined to reduce inequalities and improve wellbeing for millions of people.

What you will be doing.

Champion the legacy of the West Midlands Mental Health Commission, leading pilots that connect employment and mental health, especially supporting our ambitions for youth mental wellbeing. Drive forward research and intelligence on health, including the influential Health of the Region report. Embed the Health in All Policies approach across all WMCA programmes. Influence the West Midlands Growth Plan, ensuring wellbeing drives economic success. Build powerful partnerships with NHS, ICSs, Public Health, and Strategic Mayoral Authorities nationwide. Lead teams, manage resources, and deliver outcomes that change lives.

What's essential.

Senior-level expertise in public health, ideally with a focus on mental health, health intelligence, or tackling inequalities. A deep understanding of the health and care system and national policy landscape. Proven experience leading major programmes and securing funding. Excellent leadership, communication, and influencing skills. A postgraduate qualification in public health (or equivalent).

Location.

The location for this role is Summer Lane with at least 2 days a week spent in the office.

How to apply.

Applying for a role with WMCA is straight forward. Follow these steps to get started.

Create your Careers Account.

Register with your name, email address, and a password.

Build your Profile.

Upload your CV to help populate your career and education details.

Write your Supporting Statement.

Make sure to address each of the required essential criteria.

Submit your application.

Do one final check and once complete, click submit.

Anonymised Applications.

Your uploaded CV won't be visible after submission. Our process is anonymised, and only the information in your profile is used for shortlisting. Be thorough in each section. it's your chance to showcase your skills and experience.

Using Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We cannot stop anyone from using AI help write application content. Used right, it can be a great tool. If you choose to use AI, then use it as a helper rather than relying on it wholly to write your application.


Applications that rely too heavily on AI may be rejected during shortlisting. For help on how to write a supporting statement, please visit the FAQs section of our careers site.

Reasonable adjustments.

If you have an accessibility need, disability, or condition that means you might require changes to the application or recruitment process, please get in touch with our Recruitment Team (careers@wmca.org.uk).

Salary and benefits.

We advertise salary ranges, with new appointments typically starting at the lowest salary point. In exceptional cases, the salary point may be adjusted to secure the best candidate. This approach allows for potential year-on-year salary increases, offering progression and appropriate rewards to employees. Requests for salaries above the maximum advertised range will not be considered.


We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

Local Government Pension Scheme (

one of the most generous pension schemes in the UK

).

28 days

paid annual leave (with an option to purchase more)

EV car benefit scheme

Ethical

saving options

and

healthcare plans.

Discounted

gym membership, will writing

and

mortgage advice.

An option to

buy a bicycle

, including e-bikes and adapted pedal cycles, at a discounted rate.

3 days

of paid leave each year to

volunteer

.

Interest free financing

through SmartTech to buy the latest technology

Discounted shopping

with over 2,000 big-name retailers, and more.

For more information, please visit the benefits page on our career site.

Why join WMCA?

WMCA is laser-focused on improving the West Midlands, bringing economic growth, jobs, homes, and better journeys to the region. We target local needs where it matters most, ensuring everyone has a job that pays well and has access to safe and affordable places they can call home.


We put people and place at the heart of everything we do, working hand in hand with our partners to direct funding where it's needed most. What you do, really matters. Your expertise will help make a big difference, improving people's lives, every day.

Creating an inclusive workplace.

WMCA holds diversity accreditations, such as the RACE Code Quality Mark, Armed Forces Covenant (Gold status) and has been recognised as one of the Inclusive Top 50 Employers and The Times Top 50 Employers for Women. We're a Disability Confident Employer with 'Leader' status, committed to interviewing applicants with disabilities who meet all the essential role criteria.


We recognise that certain groups, such as women and people of colour, may be less likely to apply for roles if they feel they do not meet all the requirements. However, we encourage individuals who are passionate about the role and want to make a difference to still apply. We value potential and encourage applicants to highlight their skills, including transferable ones, even if they don't fit the traditional "perfect candidate" mould.


We gladly consider part-time, flexible, and job share arrangements, so please don't let these factors deter you from applying

Right to Work in the UK

Proof of Right to Work in the UK will be required for all applicants in accordance with UK Home Office requirements, before any employment offer can be confirmed.


Non-UK applicants (excluding Ireland) would be required to hold a relevant Visa from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).