Job Purpose
The Deputy Director of Communications is a new role at the University of Birmingham, which reflects the growth of the strategic communications function and the national and international reach and reputation of the University and its research. We are looking for a highly experienced communications professional with creative flair and a proven track record of delivering powerful communications strategies and driving reputation through the development of integrated campaigns. Leading the team of communications professionals responsible for managing and enhancing the University’s world-leading reputation, the post holder will ensure there are proactive communications strategies in place to promote our research to a global audience and provide support to academics in order to maximise the reach and impact of their research. The post holder will also lead on corporate and crisis communications and internal communications to our 7,000 staff.
Person Specification
- Educated to degree level or equivalent, preferably with an additional professional qualification
- Highly experienced communications professional working at a senior, strategic level
- Experience of working in a large, complex organisation, preferably with some experience in Higher Education, Education or Public Sector
- Extensive experience of developing communications strategies
- Extensive experience of leading emergency communications and reputation management activity
- Demonstrable experience of delivering internal communications and employee engagement strategies
- Strong personal gravitas and authority for a post of this seniority.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple, complex projects
- Experience of acting as a spokesperson and representing an organisation on broadcast media (TV, radio)
- Extensive contacts across the national media (ideally with education correspondents) and the relationship building skills to develop these further. Experience of working with the international media.
- Demonstrably strong time, people, project and budget management skills
- Outstanding verbal and written communication skills including excellent copywriting targeting different audiences via different media, speechwriting, and great attention to detail
- Proven experience of working with complex information and making it accessible for lay audiences
- IT, digital and office skills including Microsoft office, website Content Management Systems, social media channels, familiarity with online media distribution systems and CRM databases
- Demonstrable expertise in measuring, monitoring and evaluating the impact of communications strategies and plans
- Ability to manage productive working relationships with a wide range of internal colleagues and external contacts at all levels
- High standards of personal presentation at all times
- Experience of and sensitivity to the constraints of working in a confidential environment and an understanding of Freedom of Information and Data Protection
- Experience of leading teams, matrix and direct management of staff and dealing with difficult staff relations
- Extensive media relations knowledge including experience of working with PR agencies and partner organisations
- Experience of interacting at Board level and preparing reports for and presenting to Board Members
- Demonstrable experience of building excellent working relationships based on trust and respect
For more information and to apply click here.