Head of Strategic Communications and Branding

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About Windward Energy

We’re committed to supporting a sustainable world to protect future generations from the impacts of climate change. We develop energy infrastructure that will play a part in the transition to net zero. From wind energy to hydrogen, we believe in moving towards tomorrow.

Founded in 2018, and based in Edinburgh, we operate a number of green energy companies across the UK, addressing the challenges on the journey to net zero: increasing renewable energy generation, investing in new grid infrastructure, and developing innovative long-duration energy storage solutions.

What you can expect as a Windward Colleague

• Full flexibility with the option to work from home or in the office as needed.
• Flexitime with the ability to work core hours and take time back in lieu throughout the week.
• Fridays are allocated as ‘no meeting’ days to ensure downtime at the end of the week.
• 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays.
• Private Medical Insurance from day 1 with cover for immediate family including spouse or partner and children, including direct mental health pathways and support.
• Annual pay review and discretionary bonus up to 25%.
• Employer pension contributions up to 7%.
• Electric car scheme via salary sacrifice.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Tech scheme – discounts on latest technology including laptops, phones, and iPads for personal use.
• Life assurance cover and income protection.
• Travel insurance.
• Suite of enhanced policies to support colleagues through all the moments that matter.
• Regular team socials, activities, sporting events, and charity fundraisers.

The Role

REPORTS TO: Group Director of Policy and External Affairs

The Head of Strategic Communications will help facilitate the growth ambitions of the Windward Group, responsible for actively communicating how the Group is enabling the energy transition and driving an energy secure future; influencing and communicating to support growth ambitions and positively enhancing the brand profile across a wide range of audiences including investors, market participants, governments, partners, suppliers, communities, and media relations.

The role will be based in Windward Energy’s office in Edinburgh, will be a flexible/hybrid working model, and may require occasional travel within the UK.

Main Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and deliver effective strategic communications strategy and initiatives (digital/social and traditional communications) to raise and build on the profile of the Group.
• Identify and design events and sponsorship opportunities relevant to the Group’s investments and national engagement strategy.
• Build, promote, and enhance the profile, aims, values, and reputation of the Group brand through external communications and public/media relations.
• Review all key external communications materials to ensure high quality output aligned with Windward Group brand and positioning.
• Proactively build and enhance relationships with key journalists and publications, acting as a spokesperson when required.
• Prepare corporate and conference/event presentation materials using Group messaging.
• Plan and lead inspirational communications engagement campaigns to enhance the Group’s brand profile.
• Develop and implement crisis management plans, coordinating with business unit teams.
• Gather and analyse media intelligence to advise on emerging trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Ensure effective planning and coordination with business units to support project teams in delivering impactful communications.
• Manage and coordinate all sponsorship and Group wide attendance at events.
• Ensure all strategic communication activity is recorded and measure outputs against plans and outcomes against objectives.
• Develop reporting and performance metrics to measure and improve the reach and sentiment of communication activities.
• Coordinate Group communication responses to media and stakeholder queries ensuring integrity and consistency.

What we look for in return

Knowledge & Skills

• Highly motivated, energetic, and experienced professional with a multi-channel mindset for communications.
• Exceptional communication skills with a passion for digital storytelling and traditional media.
• Ability to ‘horizon scan’ for communication matters relevant to Group interests.
• Comprehensive understanding of the energy market and renewable energy project development.
• Established network of trusted relationships in communications industry and media sector.
• Excellent analytical, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Demonstrable track record of high quality, effective strategic communications and media engagement.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Senior level experience of providing strategic advice to senior management.

Experience & Qualifications

• Minimum 2:1 degree with training in communications and/or branding.
• At least four years’ experience in a communications and/or branding role.
• A passion for renewable energy and sustainability issues.

What does our culture mean to us and you?

At Windward Energy, we are committed to a workplace that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion, taking account of challenges some colleagues may face and providing the right environment and opportunities for all to THRIVE.

We believe that everyone should be able to be their true authentic self at Windward Energy and promote an inclusive environment that values different perspectives and backgrounds.

We do not accept any discriminatory attitudes or behaviours. Every colleague and potential colleague should feel confident in equality of opportunity and free from bullying, discrimination, or harassment.

We encourage all suitably qualified individuals to feel comfortable and energised to join our dedicated team and contribute to the UK’s shift towards sustainable energy solutions.

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