Director of Communications in Manchester

Our client is seeking an experienced and strategic Director of Communications to lead a modern, high‑performing communications function within a highly visible and regulated environment. This is a senior leadership opportunity for an accomplished communications professional who can shape organisational reputation, influence stakeholder engagement, and deliver impactful communications strategies aligned to corporate objectives.

Reporting to the Executive Director of Communications and Public Affairs and operating as part of the Senior Leadership Team, the successful candidate will oversee a multidisciplinary communications team responsible for media relations, digital communications, social media, strategic campaigns, and stakeholder engagement. This role offers the opportunity to influence organisational decision‑making at the highest level while driving innovation, audience engagement, and trust through effective communication strategies.

• Develop and lead the organisation’s communications strategy in alignment with corporate and regulatory objectives.
• Position communications as a strategic function that supports organisational influence, public trust, and stakeholder engagement.
• Provide expert counsel on sensitive, reputational, and high‑profile communications matters, including crisis management and media response.
• Lead integrated communications across media, digital, campaigns, stakeholder engagement, and internal communications.
• Drive insight‑led communications using audience data, evaluation metrics, and performance analysis.
• Champion digital‑first communications approaches, innovation, and modern engagement practices.
• Shape and maintain a compelling corporate narrative that strengthens brand credibility and public confidence.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior leaders, external stakeholders, media contacts, and partner organisations.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing and inclusive communications team.
• Manage budgets, resources, and external agencies to maximise value and delivery effectiveness.

• Significant experience leading large, multidisciplinary communications and engagement teams within complex or highly scrutinised environments.
• Proven success advising senior stakeholders on sensitive, reputational, and strategic communications matters.
• Experience developing and delivering communications strategies across multiple channels and disciplines.
• Strong understanding of audience insight, communications evaluation, and performance measurement.
• Experience managing budgets, suppliers, and external communications agencies.
• Demonstrated ability to influence organisational outcomes through strategic communications initiatives.

• Strong leadership presence with the ability to operate confidently in high‑pressure situations.
• Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills at executive level.
• Ability to translate complex or technical information into clear, accessible messaging.
• Experience leading communications transformation, capability development, or organisational change initiatives.
• Strong commitment to inclusive leadership, team development, and diversity of thought.
• High level of digital communications literacy and understanding of emerging communications trends.

Competitive salary with progression opportunities. Hybrid and flexible working arrangements. Generous annual leave entitlement plus additional flexible leave options. Health and wellbeing support programmes. Employee discounts and benefits platform. Ongoing professional development and career progression opportunities. Inclusive and collaborative working culture.

Candidates should submit an up-to-date CV along with a supporting cover letter outlining their suitability for the role and demonstrating alignment with the key requirements. Early applications are encouraged as the vacancy may close before the advertised deadline due to high application volumes. Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process for candidates who require additional support.