Director of Policy and Communications

About ONS

As the leading provider of official statistics, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) plays a unique role in informing national debate and improving decision-making across the UK. Our statistics are designed to support a wider public good in government, industry and across third sectors.

The data revolution has afforded us with unprecedented opportunities to generate evermore-informative insight. However, it's also an opportunity that brings with it significant challenge. Decision makers require statistics at an increasing speed, and they need it in a form that's tailored to the questions facing our nations, our businesses and our people.

To help Britain make better decisions, we must understand the current opportunities statistics provide us, listen to the evolving and diversifying needs of our stakeholders, establish the policies that turn these requirements into actions and ensure that the insights we draw are available to those who will most benefit from them. As Director of Policy and Communications, you will lead our organisation in this task and oversee our policy and communications function. You will be responsible for corporate policy development specifically relating to the governance of the organisation, international relations and the production of statistical products and services.

Reporting directly to the National Statistician (CEO) and as part of the Executive Group, you will take responsibility for the development and implementation of our communications and engagement strategy. Central to this will be the development of a compelling narrative around our purpose that gains support and participation internally, and builds trust externally.

Your key priorities will also include building a high-performing team of experts who will collectively form a cohesive and resilient communications function, and forging a vibrant network of relationships that optimises the influence and impact of our organisation. You will work collaboratively to ensure organisational policies are aligned with the Better Statistics, Better Decisions strategy.

To be considered for this role, you'll have a strong delivery record of developing compelling communication strategies for high profile organisations, plus experience of developing expert teams and working with influential roles across government. For a skilled professional who can demonstrate an outstanding ability to understand and interpret the current needs for statistics, this role offers an exciting opportunity to work in a fast moving environment and deliver for public good.

In return you will enjoy excellent Civil Service Benefits including pension, generous holiday allowance, and flexible family-friendly working options. You will also benefit from our commitment to support your ongoing development.

Person specification

• Successful experience of leading, developing and motivating high performing policy/communications teams and driving continuous professional development
• Successful experience of engaging and influencing a broad and diverse range of stakeholders at senior levels and within influential roles across government, the media industry, international partners and inside the organisation
• Significant successful experience of managing communications responses to high profile, controversial issues that attract media, government and wider public interest

Location:

Pimlico, London : Newport (Gwent), Wales: Titchfield, Fareham, South East :