Head of Communications - Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry

Delivering a successful Inquiry is a key Ministerial and Permanent Secretary priority.

The Inquiry led by Chair Sir Wyn Williams, is tasked with ensuring there is a public summary of the failings that occurred, which were associated with Horizon and other issues. Its scope is set out in the terms of reference.

Given the high profile of the inquiry, we're looking for an experienced communications professional with strong media relations skills to join our team, leading the development of high-quality plans to tell the story of the Inquiry’s work investigating what has been described as the most widespread miscarriage of justice in British legal history.

This role offers the chance to make a positive impact, and to develop a broader understanding of comms outside of government department roles.

The successful candidate will:

• Develop and maintain the Inquiry’s communications strategy, with a particular focus on the publication of Sir Wyn Williams’ final report and recommendations, and delivery of the Inquiry’s Legacy Project. More information about the Legacy Project is available here: https://www.postofficehorizoninquiry.org.uk/news/shaping-legacy-project-read-out-october-engagement-session
• Oversee the development and implementation of multi-channel media plans to ensure activities reflect policy developments and the emerging news agenda and contribute to the wider communications strategy and the goals of the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry.
• Deliver engaging, creative content that tells our story, working constructively with senior policy/legal colleagues and partners to gain expert opinion.
• Provide considered communications advice to the Chair of the Inquiry, Secretary, and senior officials on new, developing and existing policy.
• Editorial oversight of all external communications activity. Demonstrate excellent written and editing skills to ensure high standards of quality and accuracy across the team, delivering quality and timely press releases, rebuttals and lines to take in response to developing stories
• Deliver strong evaluation of media strategies to inform future proactive and reactive media campaigns
• Develop and maintain excellent working relationships with key stakeholders, including the media.
• Oversee management of the Inquiry’s social media channels, including the development of creative video and visual content.
• Oversee effective management and maintenance of the Inquiry’s website, including the contract with web developers and ensure compliance with other applicable digital accessibility (e.g. ReciteMe) or other requirements (e.g. data protection)
• Manage and develop 1 x SEO, 1 x HEO and potentially up to 2 EOs.

If you would like to discuss what the role would entail, please reach out to Ben Woodthorne, benedict.woodthorne@postofficehorizoninquiry.org.uk.