Senior Communications Manager in Swindon

Brief Description

This key new role will be responsible for external communications – specifically media and public affairs - across Network Rail’s Western route, with a specific focus on train service performance improvement, working with existing members of the team.

We’re looking for a first-class communicator who has an eye for a story and is able to communicate it to audiences in a compelling way, utilising film and digital assets. Someone with video production skills and/or confidence to be a spokesperson would be an asset. Proactivity is key to success in role.

About the role (External)

Key Accountabilities

1.Develop, drive and implement communications plans for key projects, working collaboratively with stakeholders to create content, campaigns and events, to support the delivery of business objectives and drive performance.

2.Establish and maintain strong and trusting relationships with key stakeholders, working collaboratively in order to support the identification, development and delivery their internal communications goals. 

3.Lead communications activities which present reputational risk or opportunities for the business.

4.Establish an effective network of internal and external contacts and provide direction/influence to senior managers and external industry parties where appropriate.

5.Identify and supply content for internal communications channels and act as a conduit for material/information across communications teams.

6.Provide advice/guidance on communications activity undertaken by key personnel including directors, project managers and sponsors, delivering consistency with the national communications strategy and in accordance with Network Rail’s corporate policies.

7.Check all branding used complies with Network Rail’s policy on branding, visual identity and image.

8.Evaluate communications activities on the project, from effectiveness to budget spend, so that improvements can be identified during and after the project.

9.Create and lead a team including carrying out regular 121s, appraisals, objective setting and performance monitoring and onboarding contractors as appropriate.

10.Implement the major incident communications plan as required.

Job Skills, Experience and Qualifications

Essential

·Educated to degree level or a professional communications qualification (eg IoIC, CIPR, PRCA) or demonstrable equivalent experience

·Substantial experience in corporate communications

·High standards of written and spoken communication

·The experience and personal credibility to work effectively with senior managers

·Strong influencing skills

·Proven ability to grasp, understand and promote complex and sensitive issues in a persuasive and sensible way

·Ability to develop and maintain a wide network of stakeholder contacts

·Evidence of good planning and financial skills, with the ability to deliver projects and activities on time and within budget

Desirable

·Experience of directing and managing agency support

·Relevant professional qualifications

Evidence of continuing professional development