At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead communications strategies and manage Funding Circle’s policy agenda to support UK SMEs.
- Company: Join a dynamic fintech company dedicated to empowering small businesses across the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, health benefits, and a tailored development allowance.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment that values growth, collaboration, and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK economy while collaborating with senior leadership.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in communications with expertise in policy and government affairs.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 € per year.
We’re on a mission to back the UK’s small businesses like no one else. Small businesses are the backbone of the economy, and we’re here to help them win. We’ve built a platform that uses clever data to get them the funding they need in minutes, not weeks. At Funding Circle, we have the restless energy of a fintech start-up with the stability of a public company. It’s a unique mix that gives Circlers the autonomy to take ownership and the scale to make an impact that truly counts. We’re a high‑performing team that chooses to lift each other up. We challenge, we champion, and we have each other’s backs – because we know that when we stand together, we move faster and build better. Last year alone, the businesses on our platform generated £7.2bn for the UK economy.
The role is located in London (Hybrid), requiring 3 days in the office. It offers a competitive salary and benefits. You will be responsible for Funding Circle’s policy agenda and corporate communications, including supporting investor relations messaging. This role will report into the Chief of Staff. You will work closely with senior leadership, including the CEO and CFO, to align external communications (public relations, public affairs and investor relations) with business objectives, and to develop and execute communications strategies across our key stakeholders and audiences including media, government, equity investors, funding investors, regulators, customers, and employees (Circlers).
Your responsibilities include:
- Leading communications strategies from planning to implementation and setting the communications narrative and messaging that advances our position as the UK’s leading SME finance platform.
- Overseeing public affairs activities and working with key stakeholders to develop and drive Funding Circle’s policy agenda.
- Collaborating closely with the CEO, CFO and wider plc team on investor relations.
- Managing the relationship with our corporate communications agency and working closely with our corporate brokers.
- Engaging with media contacts, both proactively and reactively.
- Ensuring delivery of day-to-day media relations including press office, planning, executive thought leadership support, events and launches.
- Managing proactive and reactive issues management to protect Funding Circle’s reputation among high‑stakes audiences.
What we’re looking for:
- At least 7 years communications experience either in-house or agency, in a fast-paced environment with expertise in Policy.
- A network of contacts across policy and corporate media audiences would be beneficial.
- Experience in managing government affairs and policy.
- Interest in government policy and intellectual curiosity about how to create a better policy environment to support UK SMEs and UK fintechs.
- Confidence in partnering at the most senior level, including the Executive Committee and the Board.
- Excellent written, spoken and presentation skills.
- Able to communicate with clarity and precision, presenting complex information in an engaging format.
- Comfortable with both strategic thinking and execution – a self-starter.
- Able to proactively identify ways to use Generative AI to streamline daily tasks and improve personal productivity.
Why join us:
We back you to build an incredible career. As a flexible-first employer, we use a “best of both” approach. We’ll see you in our London office to collaborate – with barista coffee and subsidised Just Eat lunches on us!
Our Circler Proposition focuses on five areas:
- Flexibility: We provide a benefit allowance you can tailor to your own life and family.
- Health: This includes private medical and dental, health assessments, and access to a digital GP.
- Wealth: We offer life assurance, share schemes, and financial coaching.
- Development: You get a dedicated annual learning allowance to help you level up.
- Lifestyle: We have electric car and cycle-to-work schemes, plus season ticket loans.
We also have award-winning parental leave policies. We’re here to support you through the big life moments, from fertility treatments to new additions to the family.
Senior Manager, Policy & Corporate Communications employer: Funding Circle UK
At Funding Circle, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions the growth and well-being of our employees. With a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation, we offer flexible working arrangements, competitive benefits, and a strong commitment to professional development, all set in the dynamic city of London. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the UK’s small businesses while enjoying a supportive environment that values your contributions and personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manager, Policy & Corporate Communications
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks at Funding Circle. A personal connection can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent news and their impact on small businesses. Show us you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about our mission to support UK SMEs. It’ll impress the hiring team!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with the role of Senior Manager, Policy & Corporate Communications. We want to hear how you can contribute to our communications strategies and policy agenda.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Funding Circle.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Manager, Policy & Corporate Communications
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Senior Manager role. Highlight your communications experience and any relevant policy work, as we want to see how you can contribute to our mission.
Showcase Your Impact:When detailing your past roles, focus on the impact you've made. Use metrics and examples to illustrate how your communications strategies have advanced business objectives or improved stakeholder engagement. We love seeing results!
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We value a growth mindset and good energy, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are and what drives you. Share your passion for supporting small businesses and the fintech sector.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at Funding Circle!
How to prepare for a job interview at Funding Circle UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Funding Circle's mission and values. Understand their role in supporting UK SMEs and how they leverage data for funding. This will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past communications roles that highlight your expertise in policy and corporate communications. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed stakeholder relationships and influenced senior leadership, as this is crucial for the Senior Manager position.
✨Be a Strategic Thinker
Think about how you can contribute to Funding Circle’s communications strategies. Come prepared with ideas on how to enhance their public affairs activities or improve media relations. This shows that you're not just reactive but proactive in your approach.
✨Engage with Generative AI
Since the role mentions using Generative AI, be ready to discuss how you've used AI tools in your previous roles to streamline tasks or improve productivity. This will show that you’re forward-thinking and adaptable to new technologies, which is key in a fast-paced fintech environment.