Job Description

The SAFER Communications & Engagement Manager will provide dedicated communications and stakeholder engagement support to the SAFER programme.

SAFER represents a significant review of how food law is delivered in Scotland. The programme potentially has wide-ranging implications for local authorities, industry, regulators, professional bodies, and government partners. Effective communication and engagement are therefore critical to ensuring the programme progresses transparently, builds trust with stakeholders, and supports informed decision-making.

This role will ensure the programme is supported by a structured and proactive communications and engagement approach aligned with FSS’ communications strategy.

The post holder will work closely with the SAFER programme team while maintaining strong links with the Communications and Marketing division to ensure alignment with organisational messaging, governance processes, and stakeholder management.

Responsibilities

• Deliver the communications and engagement plan to support the SAFER programme through its evidence gathering, option development, consultation, and implementation phases.
• Ensure communications activity aligns with FSS’ wider communications and marketing strategy.
• Provide strategic advice to the programme team and senior leadership on communications risks, stakeholder sensitivities, and reputational considerations.
• Work with the relevant comms leads in the development and maintenance of a clear stakeholder engagement plan for the programme.
• Support structured engagement with key stakeholders including local authorities, professional bodies, industry groups, Scottish Government, and other delivery partners.
• Ensure engagement activity supports meaningful dialogue and evidence gathering to inform programme options.
• Act as Secretariat for the Communications and Engagement Technical Advisory Group.
• Develop and keep up-to-date clear and accessible programme communications materials including : SAFER Communication Plan/Strategy/ Principles , Briefings , Stakeholder updates, Consultation materials, Programme messaging , Q&A and narrative documents, Support the preparation of communications content for the FSS and SAFER Boards.

Working pattern

This role is a temporary position with an expected commitment of 12 months FTA.

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B2 employees.

Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).

Selection Process

All candidates will be invited to an informal discussion with the Hiring Manager.

Informal discussion dates tbc.

Please be advised this vacancy is open only to Priority Movers.

Further Information

If you have specific questions about the role, please contact kate.smith@fss.scot

Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.