Head of Internal Communications
Job overview
We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced communications professional to cover maternity leave in our small, but exceptional communications team at Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust. Based mainly at Kingston Hospital, the successful candidate will also work across our community services in Richmond, leading on our internal communications agenda and staff engagement programmes.
The postholder will ensure that staff are informed and engaged in the work of the Trust and the wider NHS and have all the information and support they need to deliver our services. The Head of Internal Communications will oversee all of our internal news channels for staff and the management of our staff reward and recognition schemes, as well as working with the leadership teams to support them to connect with the work being done on the frontline.
If you have strong organisational skills, a passion for innovative and creative communications, and thrive in a busy, friendly, and collaborative working environment, we would love to hear from you. This is a leadership position, so please only apply if you have a proven track record of leadership excellence.
For further information, please view the job description.
Main duties of the job
Support the strategic objectives of the organisation- To develop a detailed understanding of the Trust’s strategy and business priorities and, with the support of the Director of Communications and Engagement, deliver and regularly measure the effectiveness of the internal communications strategy
- Work with the Communications team to develop timely, engaging and relevant communications for all staff groups – including looking at new channels and opportunities to reach staff quickly across all Trust site
- Provide line management to one member of the Communications team providing leadership, mentoring, coaching and personal development planning for each team member, agreeing annual personal objectives set against departmental and Trust objectives, and evaluating performance
- Provide day-to-day operational management and support to all members of the Communications team to ensure priorities are met and delivered to a consistent professional standard
- Monitor and ensure that all relevant functions, projects and programmes are delivered within the budgets agreed with the Director of Communications
- Develop good working relationships within the Trust’s Clinical Directorates, and across local NHS and partner organisations, including representing the Trust at communications network events
Working for our organisation
Development and staff wellbeing
Your growth and personal happiness matters to us. After all, we can’t expect the best from you if we don’t invest in your development and nurture your wellbeing. From the moment you join us, we’re committed to fostering your professional and personal development within a supportive, empowering environment.Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance further, we provide you with the tools and opportunities you need to succeed. We actively support colleagues to take part in research, quality improvement and innovation, whatever their role or level in the organisation.
To support your wellbeing, we offer an extensive range of resources, including an on-site staff nursery at Kingston Hospital, wellbeing practitioners, regular wellbeing classes, dedicated staff physiotherapist, comprehensive occupational health services, 24/7 employee assistance programme, and a range of other support and activities.
We also take every opportunity to thank and recognise the work our teams do, through weekly ‘shoutouts’ and patient feedback, monthly and annual awards.
Wherever you work across our organisation, we look forward to welcoming you.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
**Please see the attached supporting job description and person specification document, which contains more information about the role and requirements. Please ensure your application refers to the job description and person specification**
Person specification
Education / Qualifications
Essential criteria- Educated to Masters degree level or equivalent training/experience, preferably in Communications field
- Postgraduate qualification in public relations, media or communications
Knowledge and Understanding
Essential criteria- Significant experience at a senior level in a large and complex public sector organisation; including working with the media, public relations or communications
- N/A