Chief Communication Officer

Police Scotland is seeking a Chief Communications Officer (CCO) to provide strategic leadership for the service's corporate communications function. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to lead a multidisciplinary team of professionals across media relations, internal and external communications, digital engagement, and public affairs at a national scale.

As a key member of the Senior Management Team within the Strategy & Analysis Directorate, you will set direction, strengthen operational delivery, and provide expert counsel to Chief Officers and the Chief Constable on reputation, public confidence, and crisis response. We are looking for a visionary senior leader to drive the next wave of Police reform, to harness new digital communications opportunities, and shape how communication activity supports frontline policing while reinforcing our core values of integrity, fairness, and respect.

This is a unique opportunity to bring your vision and expertise to a complex, high-impact public service organisation. If you’re an experienced senior communications professional with a passion for transformation, this is a rewarding and impactful role in which to leave your mark.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership and Direction
• Initiate and direct the organisation's corporate communications strategy, ensuring alignment with national policing plans, operational priorities, and long-term reputation management.
• Provide expert, high-level advice to the Chief Constable and Executive Team during matters of national significance, crisis response, and heightened political scrutiny.
• Media and Reputation Management
• Oversee proactive and reactive media relations across all platforms and act as a senior spokesperson during major incidents.
• Build strong relationships with media executives, statutory partners, and Scotland’s diverse communities to build trust and navigate sensitive, high-profile events.
• Internal Communications and Culture
• Lead internal communication strategies that inform, engage, and empower officers and staff through periods of corporate transformation and modernisation.
• Digital Innovation and Public Affairs
• Drive the use of modern, accessible, and evidence-based digital channels to enhance community engagement.
• Manage parliamentary engagement, monitor public policy developments, and support the Executive Team in public scrutiny and political forums.

It is expected that you shall:

• Hold a Degree level qualification (or equivalent) with significant senior managerial experience, OR demonstrate exceptional leadership experience in driving successful organizational change.
• Hold a professional membership in a relevant communications organization.
• Have significant senior-level experience leading communications strategies, media relations, and crisis management within a large, complex, and highly scrutinized organization.
• Possess a demonstrable track record of leading large, multi-disciplinary communications teams and managing departmental budgets.
• Have a strong understanding of political processes at local, national, and UK levels, with a preference for public sector experience.
• Hold a valid Driving Licence (Essential).

Why join us?

• Competitive salary with annual increments
• Full-time or part-time shift patterns
• 28 days annual leave and 6 public holidays (increases with service)
• Local government pension scheme for long-term security
• Ongoing training to develop your skills