Communications and Engagement Manager - B3

This opportunity is only open to applicants who are Scottish Government employees, and are currently 'Priority Movers'. Applications from individuals not currently on the Priority Mover list will be rejected and not considered. 

We are seeking a B3 level transfer join the Strategic Communications and Engagement Unit within Health and Social Care on a permanent basis. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in supporting some of the Scottish Government's highest-profile and most complex policy areas, including social care and NHS Board reform.

This is a fast-paced and strategic role, requiring an individual who is politically astute, resilient and able to adapt quickly as priorities evolve. The successful candidate will be comfortable operating in a dynamic environment where ministerial, stakeholder and organisational needs can change at pace.

We are looking for a strong communicator with excellent writing and proofreading skills and the ability to translate complex policy into clear, compelling and accessible communications. You will have an understanding of how to develop a communications and engagement strategy and be confident in providing trusted, evidence-based advice to senior leaders, Ministers and Special Advisers on the most effective approaches to stakeholder engagement, internal communications, media handling and public-facing communications.

Working across a diverse portfolio that currently includes social care, mental health and NHS Board reform, you will help develop and deliver strategic communications and engagement activity that supports policy objectives, builds understanding and trust among stakeholders, and helps navigate significant organisational change. You will work closely with policy colleagues, senior management, Ministers and communications professionals across government to develop integrated communications approaches, messaging and engagement plans.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate sound judgement, strong political awareness, excellent relationship-management skills and a proven ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining high standards of quality and accuracy. Experience of developing communications strategies, stakeholder engagement plans and high-quality written products for senior audiences will be essential.

This role would suit someone who enjoys working on complex issues, can think strategically while delivering at pace, and is motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to some of Scotland's most significant public service reform programmes.

Key responsibilities

• Overseeing regular media intelligence gathering to shape and inform our communications activity and providing advice and support to policy colleagues on all aspects of strategic communications and engagement
• Work with policy colleagues to build a positive narrative that explains the nature of health and social care public service reform work and manage and maintain key lines
• Work closely with officials, central news colleagues and stakeholders to plan, deliver and evaluate activity around key announcements.
• Working with key external stakeholders to support them to tell the story of public service reform, including NHS Board communications colleagues.
• Provide additional support for digital and social media activity as required.
• Formal line management and peer support as required.

Working pattern

This role is a permanent level transfer position. 

Experience 

• Strong track record of planning and delivery of media engagement to meet strategic objectives. 
• Writing for a range of audiences and across varied policy areas and formats, in alignment with wider narratives and brand approaches. 
• Using evidence and insights to shape communications plans and media engagement. 

How to Apply

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B3 employees. 

Please submit a CV and a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).

Vacancy closes at 11:59pm 

Selection Process

All applications will be invited to an informal discussion with the hiring manager.

Informal discussions are to be confirmed.

Further Information

If you have specific questions about the role, please contact [email protected]

Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.