We have an exciting opportunity for a Communications Manager to join a well-established organisation in Thurrock.This will be on an initial 2 moth contract.The role is Hybrid. *This role is inside IR35 and therefore Umbrella contractors only will be considered*Key Tasks* To support the development and delivery of the council's Communications Strategy both externally and internally * To develop, manage and implement communications activity ensuring a consistent approach across the full range of communication channels * To provide professional communications support, advice and consultancy to elected members; senior managers and services to ensure the highest standards * To develop, shape and manage direct digital communication with residents * To be responsible for overseeing communications activity and outcomes for projects and programmes which link to the council's priorities * To provide out of hours on-call cover for crisis/emergency communications and high profile issues on a rotational basis.Key Experience* Proven ability to manage the planning, delivery and evaluation of marketing and communication plans and activity* Proven ability to identify, plan, manage and evaluate programmes and projects from initiation to completion, to achieve the stated outputs and results, within budget, timescale and to achieve agreed measurable objectives. Creative flair and ability to translate business needs into high impact campaigns and communication programmes* Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and ability to tailor content and style to a wide variety of audiences including Members and key internal and external stakeholder such as staff residents, partner organisations and the third sector.* Experience of all aspects of campaign work, including market research, planning, delivery and evaluation.* Experience of operating at a high level of concentration over a range of activities with high levels of workload pressure* Experience of using own initiative to progress work on behalf of senior staff.* Experience of successfully planning, developing and managing communications programmes and projects at a strategic level, with proven understanding of the impact across organisations.* Experience of working with computer based systems including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Electronic Mail, Internet and Social Media.* Experience of dealing with media enquiries.* Experience of working within a political environment, along with an understanding of the statutory requirements and legal constraints of working within local government* Experience of people management and managing direct reports* Experience of influencing, giving advice to, and building effective working relationships with senior managers, Members, communities, partner organisations, private sector providers, public agencies and statutory authorities.* Experience of negotiating and working with suppliers* Educated to degree level or equivalent experience.* Good knowledge of budget management* A relevant professional qualification eg CIPR, CAM, CIM, NCTJ or equivalent experience* Some evening/weekend work may be required for which the post holder will be entitled to time off in lieu and there is a requirement to take part in the out of hours on call rota for which a standby payment is received.* Ability to travel across the borough* Ability to develop and maintain good working relationships across a wide range of contacts* Capacity for creative and strategic thinking needed to generate new ideas, alternative options and to develop communications solutions to complex organisational problems.* Ability to work under pressure, determine priorities and progress a variety of tasks within a clear and agreed strategic forward plan of communications activities* Proven ability and an excellent track record of leading and managing communications team members.* Politically astute, sensitive, tactful and diplomatic.* Ability to exercise discretion, judgement and ensure confidentiality when dealing with members and officers at every level.* Knowledge of working in local government or the public sector.* Knowledge of the latest marketing and digital communications techniques and approaches.* Knowledge of measuring and evaluating effective communications and marketing activity* Knowledge of working within a political environment is preferred, along with an understanding of the statutory requirements and legal constraints of working within local government.* At least 3 years' experience of working in a media liaison/PR, marketing, campaigns or internal communications role."In applying for this position, you consent to your personal data being shared with the specified employer and for your details to remain with GTS for as long as is necessary to process your application. See our Privacy Notice for full informationGlobal Technology Solutions is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy