Job Overview
Exciting times lie ahead for the Royal Free London (RFL) as we implement our five-year clinical strategy and continue our commitment to world-class care — both locally and across the NHS.
Our award-winning communications department is central to the trust, supporting four main hospitals and several satellite sites. With around 17,000 staff and over a million annual patients, our audience is diverse and dynamic.
We produce content across internal channels, manage the trust’s website and intranet, oversee social media, respond to media enquiries, and create patient information materials.
This role focuses on leading our public affairs and stakeholder engagement, ensuring our key external audiences are informed and aligned with the trust’s vision and progress.
Main Duties of the Job
- Develop and lead stakeholder engagement strategies at a time of significant change and opportunity.
- Work alongside media, digital, and internal communications colleagues.
- Build strong relationships with key influencers and stakeholders.
- Ensure consistent, proactive communication across all RFL sites.
- Spend at least one day per week on-site at a location other than HQ to connect with staff and understand local challenges.
Working for Our Organisation
Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest NHS trusts, employing over 17,000 staff and delivering care across more than 70 locations in North London and Hertfordshire.
We strive to be world-class in care delivery, research, and teaching. Our Royal Free London group, established in 2017, aims to unify NHS providers to enhance care, reduce variation, and build a healthier future through digital innovation and integrated care.
Detailed Job Description
Please refer to the attached job description document for full details on this role and what it’s like to work with us at the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust.
Person Specification
Royal Free World Class Values – Essential
- Demonstrable commitment to the trust’s core values
Education & Professional Qualifications
- Essential: Relevant degree + CIPR/CIM qualification (or equivalent experience)
- Desirable: Master’s degree in Communications/PR
Experience
- Essential:
- Internal communications expertise
- Leading teams and integrated campaigns
- Working with senior leadership
- Experience handling sensitive/confidential issues
- Intranet and CMS management
- Publication writing and editing
- Desirable:
- Media/PR/marketing knowledge
- NHS background
- Social media and digital content expertise, especially LinkedIn
Skills & Aptitudes
- Essential:
- Strategic thinking and presentation skills
- Strong organisational, written, and verbal communication
- Excellent relationship building and problem-solving
- Ability to manage multiple complex projects
- Desirable:
- Advanced IT skills (MS Office, CMS platforms)
Personal Qualities
- Highly motivated, positive, and proactive
- Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills
- Ability to work under pressure and to deadlines
- Committed to diversity, openness, and continuous development
- Emotionally intelligent with cultural sensitivity
Job Details
- Job Title: Senior Communications Manager (Public Affairs)
- Grade: NHS AfC: Band 7
- Salary: £54,320 – £60,981 per annum (inclusive of HCAS)
- Contract: Permanent
- Hours: Full-time (37.5 hrs/week, min. 3 days on-site)
- Location: Royal Free Hospital, Hampstead
- Employer: Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust
- Closing Date: 11 June 2025, 23:59
- Job Reference: 391-RFL-7020933
Application process
If you’re interested and meet the requirements click on official website to apply
