Folkestone & Hythe District Council
Media And Communications Officer
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This is an exciting time to join Folkestone & Hythe District Council.
We're creating an additional Media & Communications Officer role to strengthen our communications capacity during a period of significant transformation across local government. As Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) progresses, effective communication and engagement will be more important than ever.
This newly created position will play a vital role in helping residents, businesses, stakeholders and staff understand the changes ahead, while supporting the council's day-to-day communications activity, maintaining confidence in current services and protecting our reputation.
Working closely with emerging local government partners across Kent, you'll help deliver clear, consistent and engaging communications that support collaboration, build trust and keep communities informed throughout this period of change.
The role
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced communications professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys working on high-profile projects that make a real difference.
This is a hybrid role, which requires a minimum office presence of one day per week in our Civic Centre offices in Folkestone.
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You'll work across a wide range of communications activities, including:
- Building strong relationships with internal stakeholders and partner organisations to develop proactive communications opportunities, using a variety of channels, to demonstrate the work of the council for its residents and businesses
- Managing media enquiries, advising on responses, ensuring timely replies and creating briefings for council interviewees
- Supporting communications linked to Local Government Reorganisation and wider council priorities and helping coordinate joint communications activity.
- Writing compelling content for press releases, websites, social media and publications.
- Advising senior officers and councillors on communications matters.
- Monitoring media coverage, evaluating pro-active communications, effectiveness and identifying opportunities for improvement.
- Supporting the council's response to sensitive issues and reputational risks.
About you
You'll be a talented communicator with outstanding writing skills, strong political awareness and the confidence to work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
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We're looking for someone who:
- Has experience working in communications, PR or media relations.
- Can develop engaging content across multiple channels.
- Is comfortable managing competing priorities and responding quickly to emerging issues.
- Builds strong working relationships and enjoys collaborative working.
- Is excited by the opportunity to contribute to one of the biggest changes facing local government in a generation.
- Can work effectively with partner organisations to deliver aligned and impactful communications.
If you're looking for a communications role with real purpose, influence and variety, we'd love to hear from you.
For an informal conversation about the role please contact Jane Walker, Communications & Engagement Manager to arrange a suitable time: jane.walker@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk
The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Sunday 30th August at 23:59
Please note: This vacancy may close earlier than the advertised closing date if we receive a high volume of applications.
Interviews will be held on Tuesday 8th September 2026
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