Communications Business Partner in Slough

Shape the communications that inform, engage and protect our network. As our Communications Business Partner, you'll play a key role in shaping how Cadent communicates across the North London Network. This role goes beyond drafting messages or reacting to events – you'll act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, helping translate strategy into clear, compelling communications while protecting and strengthening Cadent's reputation.

In this permanent role, you'll work closely with network leadership and colleagues across Communications and External Affairs to deliver proactive media relations, impactful internal communications and confident incident response. You'll lead communications planning, provide expert advice on complex and sensitive issues, and ensure messaging is consistent, engaging and aligned to Cadent's values and priorities. Due to the operational nature of the role, you'll be required to respond to reactive situations, including attending site when needed. A full UK driving licence is essential, and a company car is provided. You'll also take part in a 1 in 4 standby rota, providing on call media support across all Cadent networks.

Alongside managing enquiries from the media and liaising with local authorities, you'll also play a positive and rewarding role in communicating the impact of our work – from major infrastructure projects to innovations shaping the future of the network. This opportunity would suit someone with experience in utilities or other regulated industries, who is comfortable operating in high‑profile, fast‑paced environments.

• Media & Reputation Management – Lead proactive media relations and manage issues and crisis communications to protect and enhance Cadent's reputation.
• Strategic Business Partnering – Act as a trusted communications advisor to senior leaders, shaping how strategic priorities and change are communicated.
• Campaign Development – Design and deliver integrated communication campaigns across multiple channels, ensuring impact and measurable outcomes.
• Incident & Emergency Communications – Lead and support communications activity during operational incidents, providing calm, clear and effective messaging.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Build strong relationships with journalists, stakeholders and partners to support proactive and reactive communications.
• Internal Communications Leadership – Deliver engaging internal communications that connect colleagues to our vision, priorities and culture.
• Brand & Best Practice – Champion Cadent's tone of voice, brand standards and communications best practice across the network.

• Communications Expertise – Proven experience in corporate, external and internal communications, media relations including crisis management.
• Strategic Thinking – Ability to analyse complex issues and translate them into clear, practical communications plans.
• Exceptional Writing Skills – Confidence producing high‑quality, engaging content across a range of channels and audiences.
• Stakeholder Influence – Strong interpersonal skills with the confidence to challenge, influence and advise senior leaders.
• Pace & Prioritisation – Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver at pace in a fast moving environment.
• Creative Approach – A flair for developing innovative communication solutions that engage and inform.
• Professional Credibility – Educated to degree level or equivalent, with a recognised communications qualification or relevant experience.

If you're ready to play a pivotal role in shaping communications across the North London Network, apply now.

• Annual bonus
• Pension Scheme double matched up to a total of 18% of salary
• 25 days holiday, plus statutory days, and an option to buy more
• An extra day off each year to celebrate life’s special moments
• Career development with funded learning options
• Flexible working and strong ED&I commitments
• Generous family policies and flexible benefits
• Retail discounts, gym access, and more

We support a healthy work-life balance and are open to flexible working options. Don’t meet every requirement? No problem! If you’re excited about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification mentioned, we would still love for you to submit your application – you may just be the right person for this role or other opportunities at Cadent.

We value diversity and are committed to being an equitable employer. Our employee communities – Women in Cadent, Pride at Work (LGBTQ+), Embrace (ethnicity and religion), Thrive! (disability), the Cadent Military Community, the Grief Awareness Community, and the Men’s Engagement Network (M.E.N) – can’t wait to welcome you!