Are you an experienced communications professional who can deliver high-quality communications, provide trusted advice and support a team to achieve its goals?
We are currently operating in a period of significant change as local government across Hampshire undergoes reorganisation. This role is an important part of the team, ensuring we continue to deliver excellent communications about the council’s core services, priorities, and day-to-day activity.
This is a key role with responsibility for managing a portfolio of communications activity across the council and includes line management of others in the team.
About you
You will have significant experience working in a communications, PR or marketing role and be confident operating at a senior officer level. You will have a proven track record of developing and delivering communications plans, managing campaigns, handling media enquiries, producing engaging and accessible content and providing clear, strategic communications advice.
You will be an excellent communicator and writer, with strong judgement, the ability to manage competing priorities and experience of working in a complex organisation. Experience of local government, the public sector or a politically aware environment would be an advantage.
We’re looking for someone who can work independently, build strong relationships, support colleagues and bring energy, creativity and professionalism.
What’s in it for you?
As part of our commitment to being a supportive and people‑centred employer, we offer a range of benefits designed to help you thrive both in and outside of work:
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£40,174 - £43,236 per annum (pay award pending) up to £44,472 for exceptional performance once in post
- 27 days plus bank holidays, rising by an additional week’s leave after 5 years of continuous local authority service
- Hybrid working, with flexibility across our sites, and home working
- Local Government Pension Scheme, with the option of Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs)
- Employee Assistance Programme offering free 24/7 legal, financial, and personal wellbeing advice
- Employee discount scheme with savings across major supermarkets, retailers, restaurants, and leisure providers
- Cycle to Work Scheme, helping you save around 40 percent on bikes and accessories
- A values‑led organisation, guided by our LEAF values (Learning, Empathy, Ambition, Fairness)
- Access to learning and development opportunities to support your growth
- A supportive, inclusive culture, where everyone is welcomed and valued
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and offer a range of active staff networks, including:
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Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Group
- LGBTQ+ Network
- Women’s Network
- Early Careers Network
- Neurodiversity Network
About us
At NFDC we recognise that every colleague - whether in operational, frontline, or office‑based roles - plays a vital part in delivering high‑quality services to our communities. We are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where people feel valued for the work they do and the strengths they bring.
We aim to foster a culture where people feel confident to share ideas, contribute their expertise, and develop through meaningful conversations with their managers and supported learning opportunities. Whilst we have our corporate values, LEAF Learning Empathy Ambition Fairness, we understand that different teams work in different ways, and we want our values to be lived in ways that make sense locally while staying true to our shared purpose as an organisation.
We want colleagues to thrive, which is why we promote wellbeing, balance, and opportunities for learning and progression. Our values guide how we work together and how we support each other to be confident, capable, and adaptable.
Click here to see why employees think that New Forest District Council is a great place to work: Working for NFDC
Please note: You’ll likely be aware that as part of the ongoing Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), the current organisation will transition into a new operating structure from 1 April 2028. It is important that applicants understand how this may affect their employment should they be successful. You will find attached a useful LGR update sheet at top of this advert.
If you’re interested
Please see the candidate booklet for more information about working at the Council and the job description.
If you are passionate about making a difference, committed to delivering excellent public services, and looking for a place where you can develop and continue to grow, we would be delighted to receive your application.
Please note, this post is subject to a basic DBS check
For an informal chat about the role please contact
[email protected] (Deputy Communications Manager) 023 8028 5481 or
[email protected] (Communications Manager) 023 8028 5480
We understand that some applicants may choose to use AI tools to assist with completing their application. Please bear in mind it’s important that your application remains an accurate and honest reflection of your own skills, experience, and achievements. Please ensure that any content generated or supported by AI truly represents you and your capabilities, as this will form the basis of our assessment throughout the recruitment process
Closing Date: 11pm Monday 10th August 2026
Interview Date: Monday 17th August 2026 and Friday 21st August 2026
