Communications and Engagement Manager

Job title: Communications and Engagement Manager
Grade: PO 4
Role code: EOPCC0141
Status: Police Staff

Main purpose of the role:

To promote public participation and confidence in policing in Essex, ensuring two way communication between the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC) / Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (DPFCC) and the diverse communities across Essex, enabling those communities to understand and have a voice in policing and community safety in their county.

Main responsibilities:

• Development and implementation of fully integrated communication and engagement activity aligned to the PFCCs Police and Crime Plan, Fire and Rescue Plan and other strategic plans as required, focusing on rich, engaging content and including activity around mainstream media (MSM), social media, face-to-face engagement activity and stakeholder activity.

• Implementation of the PFCCs Communication and Engagement Strategy, including delivery against robust measurements and evaluation.

• Work collaboratively with colleagues in Essex Police, the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, local community safety partnerships, local councils and wider criminal justice agencies to promote confidence in policing, fire and rescue services and community safety.

• Organise and run meaningful engagement activities with communities across the county, implementing engagement tactics that are creative, effective and suitable for the relevant target audience.

• Lead on specific engagement programmes for hard to reach groups in Essex, such as young people.

• Deputise for the Strategic Head of Policy and Public Engagement as necessary.

• Be a strong advocate for effective communication and engagement within the office and with other partner agencies.

• Participate in an out of hours duty rota to cover MSM and social media activity out of normal office hours. The role will also include the requirement to work some evenings.

• Travel countywide will be required on occasions, for which access to a vehicle will be necessary.

Updated April 2020.

Vetting level:

Management Vetting, (MV).

Necessary experience:

Essential:

The postholder will need to possess at least 7 years experience working in communications, marketing or a similar field

Experience working effectively in complex multi-stakeholder environments

Experience of developing and delivering integrated communication and engagement plans

The role will include the requirement to work some evenings and will include participation in an out of hours rota system

Educated to degree level or equivalent

Desirable:

Experience across a broad range of communication fields including, media relations, social media, event management, public engagement, stakeholder relations, marketing and content development.

Experience working alongside senior leaders, building strong, productive relationships across organisations and working effectively in multi- agency environments

Please note: All posts within the Office for the PFCC are politically restricted (as set out in schedule 16 of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011.)

Behaviours:

Analyse Critically (Level 2)

I ensure that the best available evidence from a wide range of sources is taken into account when making decisions. I think about different perspectives and motivations when reviewing information and how this may influence key points. I ask incisive questions to test out facts and assumptions, questioning and challenging the information provided when necessary. I understand when to balance decisive action with due consideration. I recognise patterns, themes and connections between several and diverse sources of information and the best available evidence. I identify when I need to take action on the basis of limited information and think about how to mitigate the risks in doing so. I challenge others to ensure that decisions are made in alignment with our mission, values and the Code of Ethics.

Collaborative (Level 2)

I manage relationships and partnerships for the long term, sharing information and building trust to find the best solutions. I help create joined-up solutions across organisational and geographical boundaries, partner organisations and those the police serve. I understand the local partnership context, helping me to use a range of tailored steps to build support. I work with our partners to decide who is best placed to take the lead on initiatives. I try to anticipate our partners' needs and take action to address these. I do not make assumptions. I check that our partners are getting what they need from the police service. I build commitment from others (including the public) to work together to deliver agreed outcomes.

Deliver, Support and Inspire (Level 2)

I give clear direction and expectations, helping others to understand how their work operates in the wider context. I identify barriers that inhibit performance in my teams and take steps to resolve these, enabling others to perform. I lead the public and / or colleagues, where appropriate, during incidents or through the provision of advice and support. I ensure the efficient use of resources to create the most value and the right impact within my areas. I keep track of changes in the external environment, anticipating both the short and long term potential implications for the Police Service. I motivate and inspire others to achieve their best.

Emotionally Aware (Level 2)

I consider the perspectives of people from a wide range of backgrounds before taking action. I adapt my style and approach according to the needs of the people I am working with, using my own behaviour to achieve the best outcome. I promote a culture that values diversity and encourages challenge. I encourage reflective practice among others and take the time to support others to understand reactions and behaviours. I take responsibility for helping to ensuring the emotional well being of those in my teams. I take the responsibility to deal with any inappropriate behaviours.

Innovative and Open-minded (Level 2)

I explore a number of different sources of information and use a variety of tools when faced with a problem and look for good practice that is not always from policing. I am able to spot opportunities or threats which may influence how I go about my job in the future by using knowledge of trends, new thinking about policing and changing demographics in the population. I am flexible in my approach, changing my plans to make sure that I have the best impact. I encourage others to be creative and take appropriate risks. I share my explorations and understanding of the wider internal and external environment.

Take Ownership (Level 2)

I proactively create a culture of ownership within my areas of work and support others to display personal responsibility. I take responsibility for making improvements to policies, processes and procedures, actively encouraging others to contribute their ideas. I am accountable for the decisions my team make and the activities within our teams. I take personal responsibility for seeing events through to a satisfactory conclusion and for correcting any problems both promptly and openly. I actively encourage and support learning within my teams and colleagues.

Values:

Impartiality (accredited)

I take into account individual needs and requirements in all of my actions. I understand that treating everyone fairly does not mean everyone is treated the same. I always give people an equal opportunity to express their views. I communicate with everyone, making sure the most relevant message is provided to all. I value everyone's views and opinions by actively listening to understand their perspective. I make fair and objective decisions using the best available evidence. I enable everyone to have equal access to services and information, where appropriate.

Integrity (accredited)

I always act in line with the values of the police service and the Code of Ethics for the benefit of the public. I demonstrate courage in doing the right thing, even in challenging situations. I enhance the reputation of my organisation and the wider police service through my actions and behaviours. I challenge colleagues whose behaviour, attitude and language falls below the public's and the service's expectations. I am open and responsive to challenge about my actions and words. I declare any conflicts of interest at the earliest opportunity. I am respectful of the authority and influence my position gives me. I use resources effectively and efficiently and not for personal benefit.

Public service (accredited)

I act in the interest of the public, first and foremost. I am motivated by serving the public, ensuring that I provide the best service possible at all times. I seek to understand the needs of others to act in their best interests. I adapt to address the needs and concerns of different communities. I tailor my communication to be appropriate and respectful to my audience. I take into consideration how others want to be treated when interacting with them. I treat people respectfully regardless of the circumstances. I share credit with everyone involved in delivering services.

Transparency (accredited)

I ensure that my decision-making rationale is clear and considered so that it is easily understood by others. I am clear and comprehensive when communicating with others. I am open and honest about my areas for development and I strive to improve. I give an accurate representation of my actions and records. I recognise the value of feedback and act on it. I give constructive and accurate feedback. I represent the opinions of others accurately and consistently. I am consistent and truthful in my communications. I maintain confidentiality appropriately.

Technical skills:

Budget Management (Level 4)

Accountable for and capable of managing a set budget. Fully conversant with financial regulations, processes and procedures and the responsibilities placed upon the budget holder. Capable of and responsible for authorising expenditure from a local budget and aware of the implications of certain courses of action. Can make budgetary decisions having given due consideration to best value.

Business Planning (Level 3)

Able to effectively contribute to the business planning process within a Division / Department. Demonstrates a broad understanding of the requirements of Force business planning and value for money. Identifies and recommends local objectives and targets for inclusion in the Division / Department plan. Takes responsibility for monitoring these and ensuring they are achieved.

Health and Safety (Level 3)

Has a basic understanding of Health and Safety issues affecting the current role and working environment. Takes responsibility for personal safety and the safety of others. Aware of hazards and reports problems identified to line manager. Understands and minimises the physical risk of injury through the use of proper manual handling procedures.

Information Gathering and Analysis (Level 5)

Information gathered is sufficient, valid and reliable and is consistent with the organisation's values, policies, guidelines and procedures. Able to deal with situations when information is insufficient, contradictory or ambiguous. Able to organise and interpret information so that conclusions can be drawn.

Interviewing - General (Level 3)

Demonstrates the ability to conduct effective routine interviews for a variety of purposes. Prepares and plans carefully and is clear about the purpose of the interview. Asks relevant questions and is able to obtain the required information. Regularly reviews personal interview performance. Adapts style to suit the needs of the interview.

Journalism and Media (Level 5)

Maintains an up to date awareness of all matters connected with the Force which are of interest to the media and provides briefings and press releases as appropriate. Able to effectively persuade media representatives to the Force viewpoint in the face of challenging and probing questioning. Provides coaching and guidance to officers involved in more sensitive or controversial investigations, or those where there is prolonged media interest.

Knowledge of Police Environment and Policy (Level 4)

Displays a general appreciation of changes affecting the police service. Understands the inter-relationships between the roles of the various Operational and Support activities, and how organisation structures and police systems work. possesses a detailed understanding of working procedures, practices and policies relevant to the current role and the roles of subordinates and ensures that these are followed at all times. Is clear about Force goals and effectively contributes to local business plan objectives.

Marketing and Sponsorship (Level 5)

Able to identify clear objectives for a marketing plan in line with organisational objectives. Understands the need to consult all relevant personnel in the design and development of an effective plan according to the needs of the business. Potential problems and contingencies are anticipated and solutions prepared. And/or has a comprehensive understanding of gaining external funding and sponsorship policy and manages the function of acquiring alternative sources of funding.

Office Organisation (Level 4)

Fully conversant with organising an office and able to develop working practices which impact on productivity. Able to adapt and innovate so that the office environment contributes to increased efficiency and effectiveness. Can plan and control office activities to meet objectives. Able to prepare and present management information which facilitates action. Effectively evaluates information/products and makes recommendations on following a course of action.

Office Technology (Level 4)

Demonstrates advanced skills in the use of one or more office software products Able to use these packages to enhance the quality or presentation of work required within the role. Manages data files and file structures. Provides on the job training and guidance to other staff in the use of specific or specialist software, if required. Familiar with established IT rules and protocols and shows a good understanding of data protection requirements.

Project Management (Level 4)

Capable of demonstrating a practical knowledge of project management principles and techniques. Able to define, plan and manage projects within a Department or Division. Recommends and agrees project objectives, timescales and budget with the appropriate senior officer. Leads a small team from within the Department or Division. Able to identify resources required and their appropriate role and skills. Monitors costs and milestones and proactively reports exceptions to next tier management. Has some knowledge of risk management Able to deliver small projects on time and within budget. Understands the principles of benefits management.

Research Techniques (Level 3)

Conducts basic research work, usually with a relatively narrow focus and is able to find out all the required relevant information or data for the task set. Can present findings in a logical and easily understood manner.

Risk Management (Level 5)

Able to anticipate, accurately define and establish the relative level of risk likely to affect their specialist function, in terms of likelihood and impact, together with how the challenges facing the wider organisation might affect their role within the force. Assesses the risks of national initiatives providing feedback at the relevant level. Has an understanding of pathways to alert all appropriate senior managers to flawed or ineffective control strategies and provide continuity/recovery options. Has an appreciation that seizing opportunities also generates risks.