Communications and Stakeholder Management Lead

Communications & Stakeholder Engagement Lead London (Hybrid - 1-2 days per week onsite) Contract / Interim Opportunity / £550 daily (inside IR35) The OpportunityWe are seeking an experienced Communications & Stakeholder Engagement Lead to play a pivotal role in a high-profile, large-scale digital transformation programme. This is a senior leadership position where you will shape and deliver communications and engagement strategy, working closely with directors and senior stakeholders to drive understanding, alignment, and successful programme outcomes. You will join a collaborative and growing team, with the autonomy to lead your own workstreams and make a tangible impact from day one. Key Responsibilities • Lead the development and delivery of a comprehensive communications and engagement strategy • Own and execute internal and external communications plans • Build and maintain strong relationships with senior stakeholders, including director-level audiences • Develop and manage stakeholder mapping and engagement plans • Lead high-impact communications campaigns aligned to programme delivery • Provide strategic advice and messaging support to senior leadership • Operate effectively in a fast-paced, evolving environment, managing ambiguity with confidence • Contribute to and support a high-performing, collaborative team culture About YouYou will be a confident, credible communications leader with the ability to operate at pace and influence at senior levels. Essential Experience • Proven experience in communications and stakeholder engagement leadership roles (e.g. Head of / Lead / Director level) • Strong track record delivering communications strategies within large programmes or transformations • Experience across both internal and external communications • Demonstrated ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders (Director level and above) • Experience developing and delivering engagement strategies and stakeholder maps • Comfortable working in environments with ambiguity and changing priorities • Excellent communication skills with high attention to detail Highly Desirable • Experience working within government, public sector, or highly regulated environments • Exposure to digital transformation programmes • Experience supporting commercial or procurement-related activity • Background in building or developing communications functions and teams Working Style • A proactive, self-starting leader who can hit the ground running • Calm and composed under pressure • Positive, collaborative and willing to support the wider team • Brings ideas, energy, and ownership to their work Location & Working Pattern • London-based role with hybrid working • Candidates based in Bristol or Manchester will be considered, with the expectation of regular travel to London (1-2 days per week) • Team-wide in-person collaboration day on Tuesdays Eligibility • Must be eligible for BPSS and SC clearance (existing or lapsed SC is advantageous) Why Apply? • Opportunity to lead communications on a high-impact transformation programme • High visibility role with exposure to senior leadership • Ability to shape and influence strategy in a complex environment • Collaborative and supportive team with strong growth trajectory