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SalaryWe feel privileged to lead the Government Communications Profession (GCS) as Chief Executive Officer and the UK’s National Security strategy as the National Security Secretariat’s (NSS) Strategy Director. We are excited to offer a talented individual the opportunity to step into this challenging leadership role, acting as the anchor between GCS and NSS, working to strengthen the government’s National Security Communications.
GCS’ mission is to deliver exceptional public service communications that make a difference to people’s lives. People work in GCS because what we do matters. Our mission remains steadfast: to deliver exceptional public service communications that significantly impact the lives of our citizens. The dedication of individuals within the GCS stems from the profound understanding that our work holds significant importance.
The National Security Secretariat (NSS) keeps the UK safe, secure and prosperous by bringing together the UK’s National Security community, providing high-quality support to the Prime Minister and the National Security Council and maintaining centre-to-centre relationships internationally. Working within the wider Cabinet Secretariat and led by the Prime Minister’s National Security Adviser (NSA), we assist the Prime Minister and the Cabinet in the development, coordination and implementation of its highest priority objectives.
As communication dynamics rapidly evolve, we are seeking visionary leaders who excel not only in communication but also in navigating complex and evolving environments, inspiring teams to achieve greatness.
As the Deputy Director for National Security Communications, you will play a pivotal role in the leadership of the Government Communication Service and NSS. Together, we endeavour to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of government communications, modernising our profession while harnessing the transformative power of technology for the greater good and deliver against National Security objectives. Building public trust and nurturing exceptional communications talent remain paramount in our mission.
We are seeking an individual who shares our values and ambitions for the GCS and NSS, someone who can contribute to creating an open and inclusive culture where innovation is welcomed, boundaries are pushed, and calculated risks are taken. I am confident that you will find the work both challenging and rewarding, surrounded by talented individuals who share your dedication to excellence.
We invite you to be part of something greater than ourselves, where your contributions will make a tangible difference in safeguarding our nation’s security.
You will be expected to work across government (with multiple complex stakeholders) and with external stakeholders including some of our closest international partners. You will be a senior voice at the table, advocating for the role of communications in achieving real world outcomes.
You will work closely with senior leadership in the GCS and NSS. Creative and organised, you will be an integral part of our senior leadership team, helping get the best out of our people.
Key responsibilities:
- Leadership of the National Security Communications team and playing a leading role in the wider Cabinet Office communication team and across NSS.
- Act as the communications representative for the whole of His Majesty’s Government (HMG) at key senior meetings including COBR Ministerial (M) and Officials (O) where required. You will also represent National Security communications on a number of officials’ groups.
- Delivery and oversight of ~£ 4m programme budget.
- Leadership of a high-quality communications capability programme, which delivers demonstrable impact for the wider community.
- Providing strategic guidance and ensuring tangible delivery on top IRR23 objectives including Russia/Ukraine, China, Israel/Gaza, and National Resilience.
- Liaison and relationship building with international counterparts in key allied nations and territories around the world.
- Crisis communications leadership, including coordinating cross-government activity, providing leadership and coherence, and active participation capability building events and crisis planning.
- Development of high performing team, providing professional communications leadership, role-modelling inspiring, empowering and confident leadership and advocating for team’s wellbeing and needs in line with People Survey actions.
- Understand departmental, Ministerial and National Security priorities and convey them to your team so they can communicate the key messages clearly and accurately as part of their communication and coordination role.
- Convening the cross government National Security Communication Committee and acting as the Secretary to that committee advising on the forward work plan.
