Copywriter

At Buckinghamshire New University, we are challenging the higher education status quo. We are reimagining what a university can be: a place rooted in social mobility, a community where difference is celebrated, and an institution that empowers people to become more than they thought possible. The Creative team is central to that mission and we are looking for a brilliant copywriter with a sharp eye and standout writing skills to help drive integrated campaigns that attract, convert and retain students. Our University’s DRIVE values – Dynamic, Responsible, Inclusive, Visionary and Empowering – guide everything we do and are at the core of this role.

What we offer:

• A generous holiday entitlement (30 days per annum, plus bank holidays & closure days)
• Hybrid working (dependent on business needs)
• Training & development support opportunities
• Contributory pension scheme
• Discounted gym membership for our on-site gym
• A range of staff discounts with major retailers

Job Purpose:

To champion the University’s creative vision and solidify its new brand identity, this role requires exceptional writing and storytelling skills. You will be a vital member of the in-house creative agency, focusing on external marketing efforts for diverse audiences. The position involves inspiring and managing all BNU copy, promoting an innovative and collaborative culture, and delivering narratives that enhance institutional reputation and support strategic goals. A key part of the role is to implement an inclusive approach, fostering a university community where everyone is empowered to be their authentic self.

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

• Check briefs from clients to ensure scope and outcomes are clearly defined.
• Deliver copy with clarity, on brand, for all digital channels, websites, emails, socials and print.
• Act as a tone-of-voice guardian in collaboration with senior marketing and communication leads, providing consistency.
• Understand target audiences, industry trends, and client products to tailor messaging.
• Ensure compliance with copyright laws, brand guidelines, accessibility standards and legal requirements across all creative outputs.
• Proof-read content for spelling/grammar and incorporate SEO techniques to improve organic traffic.
• Build strong working relationships with all key internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintain exceptional command of grammar, spelling and tone.
• Brainstorm original ideas and concepts, providing recommendations.
• Comply with relevant legislative and other requirements (e.g. Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR; Health and Safety; UKVI; and Equality and Diversity) in all working practices.
• Perform any other duties temporarily or on an ongoing basis, as may reasonably be required.

Person Specification – Essential Criteria:

Education, Qualifications & Training:

• Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, a related field or equivalent professional experience.
• Professional copywriting experience: In-house or agency experience.

Knowledge & Experience:

• Strong background in creating social-first content across Twitter/X, Meta, Instagram, LinkedIn and other channels; demonstrated ability to write clear and engaging content for a variety of digital products and platforms; ability to simplify complex ideas into impactful copy; organised and able to deliver on deadlines with attention to detail.

Skills:

• Proficient in the use of Microsoft tools; effective, collaborative communication skills; proactive can-do attitude, a real team player; ability to manage and prioritise multiple projects and deadlines.

Behavioural Indicators:

• Achieving results: Consistently meeting agreed objectives and success criteria; taking personal responsibility for getting things done.
• Working together: Working collaboratively and across boundaries with others to achieve objectives; recognising and valuing the different contributions people bring to the process.

Employment Details:

• Position: Copywriter – Full Time (37hrs per week) – Permanent – High Wycombe Campus & Hybrid
• Salary: £33,951 – £37,694 per annum
• Grade: F
• Responsible to: Senior Creative Lead

If you are successful in securing an interview for the role, you will be required to provide proof of eligibility to work in the UK. Due to the salary of this role we may be unable to provide visa sponsorship for the successful candidate unless it is through a new entrant route which will need to be determined at offer stage based on RTW status. BNU is Disability Confident and as such you will be able to declare a disability as part of the application process. We ensure that our interview/shortlisting chairs complete the relevant e-learning and/or inclusive recruitment training. Please let us know if you require any adjustments or support during the recruitment process. We are happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments that would enable you to perform to the best of your abilities in your role. BNU is proud to have a diverse community and a strong track record of diversity, equity and inclusion. We are committed to promoting an inclusive and diverse workplace and aim to continue building an environment where everyone thrives and can be themselves. We particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in BNU’s workforce, including people from global majority backgrounds, people with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ people, particularly in more senior roles.