Director of Communications

Shape how the nation understands the future of transport.

Transport connects people to work, education, healthcare and opportunity; supports growth; and brings communities closer together. At the Department for Transport (DfT), we are improving every kind of journey, harnessing technology and investing in safer, greener and better-connected networks across the UK.

We are seeking an outstanding Director of Communications to lead our communications function at a pivotal moment for transport and government communications. This is an opportunity to influence an agenda of national importance and help deliver the biggest transformation of government communications in a generation.

The opportunity

As the Secretary of State’s senior official communications adviser, you will set DfT’s communications strategy and lead a large, multidisciplinary team. As Head of Profession, you will be accountable for communications strategy, spend and standards across the Department’s agencies and arm’s-length bodies. In line with cross-Government Communications transformation, you will champion the shift from reactive, press-first activity to integrated, always-on communications that reach people through the channels they use. Audience insight, data and compelling storytelling will sit at the heart of your approach. You will embrace digital innovation and responsible AI, while keeping communications clear, authentic and trusted.

Operating across a complex, high-profile portfolio, you will advise Ministers and senior leaders, shape understanding of the Government’s transport priorities and lead communications through crises and politically sensitive issues. You will also work with fellow Directors of Communications to raise standards across government.

What you will bring

We are seeking an exceptional senior communications leader with a strong record of delivering audience-led, insight-driven, multi-channel campaigns with measurable impact. Combining marketing and storytelling expertise with political acuity and strategic judgement, you will be a trusted adviser at Board, C-suite, Ministerial or equivalent level. You will bring proven experience of managing crises and reputational risk, leading cultural and digital transformation, and building inclusive, high-performing multidisciplinary teams. You will turn complexity into clear, trusted communications that put citizens first. Above all, you will provide the credible, inclusive leadership needed to build public trust and deliver lasting impact.

Help shape a modern communications function that connects with people, builds trust and makes a difference across the UK.

To view the job description and person specification, please scroll to the bottom of the page, tick to agree to the privacy policy, then click 'Continue to full details'.

• Location
  Birmingham, Leeds or London
  
• Sector
  Central Government
  
• Client
  Department for Transport
  
• Job Type
  Permanent
  
• Salary/Remuneration
  120,000 (SCS2)
  
• Reference
  GSe
  
• Closing Date
  23:55 on Monday 23 November 2026