Director of Strategy, Policy & Communications

Newstartmag; Greater London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - GBP 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government council in London seeks a Director of Strategy, Policy & Communications. The successful candidate will drive strategic planning and policy development to fulfill the Mayor's priorities. They will foster external relationships and lead data-driven, inclusive policies that meet community needs. This pivotal role requires a strategic leader with political acumen and strong analytical skills, dedicated to building an inclusive team representing the borough's diversity.

Qualifications

• Experience advising senior leaders in a complex environment.
• Ability to work at pace and handle high-profile challenges.
• Deep expertise in strategy, policy development, and governance.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategy and policy for the council.
• Shape frameworks for corporate planning and performance.
• Champion inclusive, data-driven policy.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Political acumen

External influencing

Analytical skills

Relationship-building

Job description

Director of Strategy, Policy & Communications

We’re sharpening our strategic focus and building on strong progress in policy development to deliver the Mayor’s priorities and our Corporate Plan. This is a pivotal role in shaping Newham’s future.

You’ll be the council’s strategic compass leading strategy and policy, horizon scanning and governance so that evidence, resident insight and equality analysis shape everything we do. Working closely with the Mayor and Chief Executive, you’ll set frameworks for corporate planning and performance; ensure coherence across directorates; and give expert advice on high‑risk, high‑impact policy areas.

You’ll lead external positioning and relationships across central and regional government, think tanks and universities, showcasing Newham as the progressive learning organisation that we are. You’ll champion inclusive, data‑driven, co‑produced policy that translates long‑term challenges into tangible outcomes for residents. You will also lead our well‑established communications function.

About you

You’ll be a highly credible strategist with political acumen and resilience, able to work at pace in a complex environment. You’ll have deep expertise in strategy, policy development and governance, and the ability to align corporate priorities and performance frameworks. You’ll be skilled in external influencing and relationship‑building at senior levels, and you’ll bring exceptional communication and analytical skills to create clarity from complexity.

You’ll have experience advising senior leaders, leading high‑performing teams and fostering collaborative culture. Above all, you’ll be committed to inclusion, co‑production and evidence‑based policy—and comfortable navigating sensitive issues and high‑profile challenges.

If you’re motivated by impact, equity and place‑based leadership, this role offers a platform to shape the borough’s future.

Find out more on our campaign site: https://join-newham.com or contact Frazer Thouard ([e-mail]) or Kembi Coakelin ([e-mail]).

We are proud to serve one of London’s most diverse boroughs and are committed to building inclusive teams that reflect our communities.

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.

Apply for Director of Strategy, Policy & Communications

This role expires 22/02/2026.