Senior Civil Service profile
Head of Strategic Communications Group
Name: Anita Grover
Time at DWP: 10 years
Before DWP:
- Studied economics and politics at the University of Kent. As a student union representative I developed an interest in communications in a political environment
- BBC – researcher
- Department of Education – joined the Government Communications Network graduate training programme
- Diploma in Direct and Interactive Marketing (MIDM); Advanced Diploma in Communications, Advertising and Marketing
Leadership role
lead Strategic Communications working across all the Department’s objectives to embed communications so they help to shape the design and delivery of policies and services. It’s not just about messages, leaflets or advertising. It’s about how we apply what we know about our audiences, their environment and how we can best connect with them to bring about behaviour change.
“We have a real ability to make a difference and improve opportunities for people.”
I believe communications issues need to be higher up the agenda. The world is changing quickly in media terms and methods of communication move on. We must keep pace to engage effectively with our audiences.
We have a real ability to make a difference and improve opportunities for people.
On a personal note, I already had a strong relationship with the senior civil service community before joining it. I had a lot of support from senior managers before being promoted and continue to receive this from peers and managers.
As a deaf person, I have had excellent support from the DWP in both the provision of assistance and from colleagues across Government.
