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- Tasks: Lead strategic communications and elevate the voice of arts education.
- Company: Values-driven arts education charity with a mission to inspire creativity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, hybrid working, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of cultural education and make a real impact on young lives.
- Qualifications: Strong communicator with media experience and a passion for storytelling.
- Other info: Join at an exciting time as we move to our new headquarters at Wigan Pier.
The predicted salary is between 39837 - 43570 £ per year.
We are seeking a Head of Communications & PR to elevate the national voice of a values-driven arts education charity as they prepare to open their new headquarters at the iconic Wigan Pier. Shape the story of their next chapter and help influence the future of cultural education in England and beyond.
Position: Head of Communications & PR
Salary: £39,837 to £43,570 (pro rata based on 35 hour week FTE)
Location: Wigan (hybrid: home working, Wigan Pier office from Summer 2026, plus travel as needed)
Hours: 25-30 (negotiable)
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 9.00 am on Monday 19th January 2026
Please note - This role is offered at 25-30 hours per week (FTE 35 hours), with flexibility and negotiation on your working pattern to help you to balance work and life.
About The Role
The Head of Communications & PR plays a pivotal role in strengthening the organisation's national presence and ensuring that the story of arts education and the people who make it possible, is heard, understood and valued.
You will shape a clear communications and PR strategy, lead and support a small communications team, champion ethical and inclusive storytelling, and ensure all messaging reflects the organisation's values of equity, inclusion, quality and care.
Reporting to the Director of Relationships and Marketing, you will:
- Lead proactive, strategic communications that bring the charity's mission to life
- Manage media relationships and secure thoughtful, impactful press coverage
- Oversee all digital communications, including website and social channels
- Support colleagues to communicate their work confidently and clearly
- Shape organisational messaging around programme launches, events and key moments
- Elevate the visibility of teaching artists, cultural organisations and partners
- Uphold high-quality, accessible and ethical storytelling in all content
This is a unique opportunity to influence national conversations, shift perceptions about arts-based learning, and shine a spotlight on the people, places and practices shaping cultural education today.
About You
We’re looking for a strategic communicator, a relationship-builder and a natural storyteller, someone who loves ideas, thrives on collaboration and believes deeply in the power of the arts to help children flourish.
You will be:
- A confident communicator with excellent writing skills and an eye for accuracy
- An experienced media handler who builds strong, respectful journalist relationships
- Curious, creative and able to turn complex ideas into compelling stories
- Organised, calm under pressure and skilled at managing multiple priorities
- Inclusive and ethical in your approach to storytelling and representation
- A supportive team leader who motivates others with clarity, care and ambition
This is an exciting moment to join the team. You’ll help establish the organisation's voice as it moves into its new home at Wigan Pier and expands its local, national and international reach.
About The Organisation
The charity's vision is for a future where being creative and experiencing brilliant culture is a regular part of every child's learning and life. They work strategically across Northern England, nationally and internationally to tackle unequal access to creativity and the arts for children and young people.
They value curiosity, courage, collaboration, care, conscientiousness and credibility, and are committed to anti-racist practice, ensuring diversity is at the heart of everything they do.
Head of Communications & PR in Manchester employer: Curious Minds
Contact Detail:
Curious Minds Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Communications & PR in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the arts and education sectors, especially those connected to Curious Minds. A friendly chat can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the arts! When you get the chance to speak with someone from the organisation, share your thoughts on how arts education can transform lives. Your enthusiasm will shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching their recent projects and initiatives. Being able to discuss these shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Communications & PR in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft Your Story: When applying for the Head of Communications & PR role, think about how your personal story aligns with the charity's mission. We want to see how your experiences and values can elevate the narrative of arts education.
Showcase Your Skills: Highlight your writing prowess and media handling experience in your application. We’re looking for someone who can turn complex ideas into compelling stories, so don’t hold back on showcasing your best work!
Be Authentic: We value ethical storytelling and inclusivity, so make sure your application reflects these principles. Share examples of how you've championed these values in your previous roles to resonate with our mission.
Apply Through Our Website: To ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and connect with you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Curious Minds
✨Know Your Story
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your own journey in communications and PR. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've shaped narratives or led successful campaigns. This will help you connect your experience with the charity's mission and values.
✨Research the Organisation
Dive deep into Curious Minds' work, especially their approach to arts education and their upcoming move to Wigan Pier. Understanding their current projects and challenges will allow you to tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in their mission.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions that show your strategic thinking and curiosity about the role. Ask about their vision for the new headquarters or how they measure the impact of their communications. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the organisation aligns with your values.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential team leader, be prepared to discuss your leadership philosophy. Share examples of how you've motivated teams and fostered collaboration in past roles. Highlight your commitment to ethical storytelling and inclusivity, as these are key values for the organisation.
