At a Glance
- Tasks: Create engaging communications about aviation innovations and safety standards.
- Company: Join the UK's leading aviation and aerospace regulator in a dynamic environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a free onsite gym.
- Other info: Embrace hybrid work and collaborate with diverse teams for continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the evolving aviation sector while developing your career.
- Qualifications: 2-5 years in external communications with strong writing and project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 43000 - 52937 € per year.
Salary: £43,000 up to £52,937 dependent upon experience + £4,598 on call
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time
Location: London – Canary Wharf - Hybrid (min. 2 days in the office per week).
Security Level: BPSS
Visa Restrictions: This position does not offer visa sponsorship.
We are the UK's aviation and aerospace regulator and recognised as a world leader in our field. We enable the aviation industry to meet the highest safety standards. We pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to and support the constantly evolving aviation sector.
The Role
- We are looking for an external communications specialist responsible for delivering clear, effective and engaging communications around one or more key areas of the Civil Aviation Authority's (CAA) work.
- You will use clear and creative ways to speak to our industry experts, users of the aerospace system and the general public about these kinds of changes.
- You will develop and deliver communication plans, identify and manage proactive media opportunities, and build strong working relationships with journalists and policy subject matter experts.
- You will be confident to deliver clear, effective, and engaging communications through press, broadcast and social media channels in line with both our communications strategy and the CAA's strategic objectives.
- You will deliver end-to-end communication in line with our central mission to "Protect People, Enable Aerospace."
- You will oversee and implement communication strategies, which deliver effective and impactful communications.
- You will work with and nurture relationships with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders including internal subject matter experts, comms teams from other organisations, and journalists.
- You will identify risks and mitigations across your focus area(s).
- You will protect the CAA brand reputation by leading reactive communications to issues raised by journalists.
- You will plan and deliver proactive communication campaigns to promote our work and land our key messages.
- You will collaborate with the wider communications team, including internal comms, to coordinate announcements across external comms channels.
About You
- At least 2-5 years of experience in professional external communication roles.
- Experience working for a large, complex organisation.
- A passion for writing and editing across different formats and for diverse audiences.
- Experience in developing engaging, targeted communications.
- Ability to quickly grasp highly complex topics and translate into easy-to-understand communications for different audiences.
- Strong written and oral communication skills. Writes clearly, concisely and accurately using language adapted for different audiences.
- Strong planning, analytical and project management skills and able to make effective decisions.
- Strong understanding and demonstration of techniques and strategies for handling internal and external stakeholders. Can respond quickly to, handle and prioritise multiple requests.
- Brings the CAA's values to life in the way you collaborate, communicate and get things done.
- Enthusiasm for aviation and aerospace.
- Experience in designing and delivering integrated communication strategies that are measurable and achievable and meet business objectives.
- Demonstrates a strong understanding of accessibility standards.
- Strong problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues.
- Experience in being able to multitask and prioritise work schedules.
Additional Information
- For many appointments within the CAA, these roles require access to operationally sensitive infrastructure and/or Nationally Protected information. For these roles the post holders must undergo National Security Vetting and achieve the appropriate level of clearance.
- To be vetted you must have the right to work in the UK so that meaningful checks can be undertaken.
- If you do not meet these requirements, we may not be able to accept your application.
Inclusive Recruitment
We are passionate about diversity and ensuring all are included at the CAA. We are an equal opportunity employer and actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
Working With Us
We are on a journey towards being increasingly adaptable, where our colleagues collaborate as part of cross-functional teams. This approach ensures we never stop learning together. It also means that you may become involved in activities that take you out of your day-to-day role, providing you with opportunities to develop and grow your career with us.
This role requires flexibility with in-office presence agreed by the department lead. Currently this is 2 days/week.
We have embraced hybrid working and offer flexible working patterns, being open to having a conversation about what works for you. We know where and when we work is important in achieving a work-life balance.
We offer a range of excellent benefits such as flexible working arrangements, free onsite gym at Gatwick, discounted gym membership for London, 28 days annual leave, additional 5 days leave purchase scheme, a generous pension scheme and much more!
Our Values: Do The Right Thing, Never Stop Learning, Build Collaborative Relationships, Respect Everyone.
Closing Date: Tuesday 28th April 2026
Interview Date: Tuesday 5th May 2026
Communications Specialist in London employer: Civil Aviation Authority
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London’s Canary Wharf. With a strong commitment to employee growth and a culture that values collaboration and innovation, the CAA provides flexible working arrangements, a generous benefits package including 28 days of annual leave, and opportunities to engage in meaningful projects that shape the future of aviation. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking organisation that prioritises safety and sustainability in the ever-evolving aerospace sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Communications Specialist in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the aviation and aerospace sectors, especially those who work at the CAA. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for aviation! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, share your enthusiasm for the industry and how you can contribute to their mission. It’s all about making that personal connection.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to communications strategies and stakeholder management. We recommend role-playing with a friend or using online resources to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the CAA team and contributing to the future of aviation.
We think you need these skills to ace Communications Specialist in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Aviation:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for aviation and aerospace shine through. We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission to enable the next generation of aircraft and transform how we fly.
Tailor Your Communication Style:Make sure to adapt your writing style to suit different audiences. We’re looking for someone who can translate complex topics into clear and engaging communications, so showcase your ability to write concisely and accurately.
Highlight Your Experience:Don’t forget to mention your previous experience in external communications roles. We value candidates with a strong background in managing media opportunities and building relationships, so make that front and centre in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t wait too long – apply early!
How to prepare for a job interview at Civil Aviation Authority
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, research the Civil Aviation Authority and its recent projects. Understand their mission to 'Protect People, Enable Aerospace' and think about how your skills in external communications can support this. Tailor your responses to show how you can effectively communicate complex topics to diverse audiences.
✨Showcase Your Writing Skills
Prepare examples of your writing that demonstrate your ability to convey clear and engaging messages. Whether it's press releases, social media posts, or communication plans, be ready to discuss how you've adapted your style for different formats and audiences. This will highlight your passion for writing and editing.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Management
Be prepared to discuss your experience in building relationships with journalists and internal stakeholders. Share specific examples of how you've managed proactive media opportunities or handled reactive communications. This will showcase your understanding of the importance of collaboration in a complex organisation.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Think about potential challenges you might face in the role, such as managing a crisis or communicating a new technology. Prepare to discuss how you would approach these situations, focusing on your problem-solving skills and ability to prioritise multiple requests. This will demonstrate your readiness for the fast-paced environment of the aviation sector.