Head of Communications

You will be responsible and accountable for internal and external communications, media relations and reputation management.

Key responsibilities:

• Responsible for online media, updating website consent and the intranet
• Develop and lead campaign strategies to engage the media and the public in a coordinated way that is consistent and maintains the reputation of the organisation
• Support the Director in external communications activities, identifying audiences and ensuring opportunities for media and speaking engagements are maximised
• Develop procedures, standards and policies around media management, events, VIP visits, and other areas of communications and ensure they are implemented consistently and appropriately
• Lead on communications for responding to a crisis or handling serious incidents
• Oversee the content of all internal communications including the weekly bulletin, staff forums and elements of the intranet
• Develop and sustain positive relationships with the media, maximise positive coverage and ensure balance in all media coverage, to improve public perceptions of the organisation
• Lead on all media relations involving the organisation including giving talks and media interviews and proactively seeking out these opportunities.
• Lead, develop and implement a media strategy to engage national, regional and local UK media across print, radio, television and online.
• Lead on celebrity, high profile and ambassador engagement
• Team management, including carrying out one-to-one meetings, reviewing annual performance of team members and addressing any issues
• Manage the department budget
• Attend Board meetings

Key skills:

• Substantial experience, operating at a senior level in communications, public relations, journalism or similar
• Proven experience of using digital tools in the work of the communications function and within the wider organisation
• Demonstrable experience of handling complex and sensitive issues in a high-profile organisation with multiple stakeholders
• Experience of handling high profile media stories and responding to incidents
• Proven experience in delivering internal communications
• Experience of crisis communications
• Experience of working with partners to deliver integrated media campaigns
• Proven ability to manage a communications department including a diverse range of functions and positions
• Proven ability to coordinate media campaigns, and communication strategies (internal and external)
• Proven ability to secure publicity - particularly in national and consumer media
• Proven track record in public speaking