As Head of External Communications, you will lead the Electoral Commission's external affairs function, overseeing media relations, public affairs and customer services. You'll play a key role in protecting and enhancing the Commission's reputation, shaping communications strategy, and increasing understanding of our work among voters, parliamentarians, journalists, political parties and elected representatives.

Working closely with the Board, Executive Team and senior leaders, you will provide expert advice on strategic communications, media engagement, stakeholder management and reputational risk. You'll also lead the Commission's response to complex and sensitive issues in an environment subject to significant public and political scrutiny.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and delivering external communications strategy.
• Leading media relations and overseeing a high-performing press office.
• Directing public affairs and parliamentary engagement.
• Managing reputational risks and advising senior leaders.
• Leading engagement activity that builds confidence in the UK's electoral system.
• Overseeing customer services, public information and complaints handling.
• Managing budgets, resources and supplier relationships.
• Acting as a spokesperson when required.

This is a unique opportunity to influence national debate on issues central to UK democracy while leading a talented, multidisciplinary team.

We're seeking an exceptional communications leader with strong political awareness, sound judgement and experience operating in complex stakeholder environments. You'll bring significant experience leading external communications, public affairs or corporate affairs functions and the credibility to advise senior decision-makers and represent an organisation operating under public scrutiny.

You'll demonstrate:

• Experience leading external communications, media relations or public affairs functions.
• Success in politically sensitive, regulatory or highly scrutinised environments.
• Strong media handling and reputation management expertise.
• Experience advising senior executives and boards.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, including engagement with parliamentarians, government officials and journalists.
• Strong leadership, communication and people management capabilities.
• Resilience and effectiveness under pressure.