Communications and Marketing Manager in Sudbury

Annual leave entitlement of 25 days, plus Bank Holidays. 8% employer pension contribution. The Communications and Marketing Manager is a full-time, in-person role based on site at Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury, Suffolk. Flexibility to work some weekends and occasional evenings will be required. This is a key role reporting directly to the Museum Director.

The postholder will be responsible for raising the profile of the museum and delivering sustained audience engagement in line with Gainsborough’s House Forward Plan. This will be implemented through growing audiences, engagement and income through branding, design and marketing using in-house events, national and local media, our website, social media and email marketing platforms.

The postholder will collate and analyse audience data to inform and devise a marketing strategy, communicate that strategy in-house and implement that agreed plan of action, leading a small marketing, brand and design team. We are looking for a proactive individual with a proven track record of success in developing and delivering impactful campaigns. Availability to work some weekends and occasional evenings, supporting key museum activities, will be expected.

• Data Analysis: Collating and analysing audience data and evaluation with which to devise a marketing strategy.
• Marketing Strategy: Developing and implementing a comprehensive branding, marketing and communications strategy aligned with audience analysis and the museum’s aims, mission and vision as presented in the Forward Plan. A passion for capturing the essence of the museum’s exhibitions and creating narratives that resonate with audiences will be essential.
• Brand Management: Overseeing all aspects of brand identity going forward and along with the Marketing & Design Officer, ensuring consistent and impactful messaging across all online and offline channels.
• Team Collaboration: Working closely and communicating efficiently with the Museum Director, our public relations agent, Marketing & Design Officer, colleagues and volunteers across all departments to ensure cohesive and integrated marketing.
• Events Development & Marketing: Leading the development, marketing and delivering of the museum’s programme of special events, ensuring maximum engagement and revenue generation. This will involve working closely with curatorial and learning teams and the Print Workshop.
• Audience Engagement: Identifying and engaging with both target and existing audiences, patrons and members and developing tailored communication strategies to foster long‑term relationships.
• Line Management: Managing a Marketing & Design Officer and a Digital Apprentice.
• Digital Strategy: Overseeing the museum’s digital presence, including our website, social media and email marketing, ensuring engaging content and optimal performance.
• Stakeholder Relations: Cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, cultural partners and community organisations. Working closely with the Development Manager in delivering corporate and patron events.
• Budget Management: Managing the marketing and communications budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and demonstrable return on investment.
• Performance Analysis: Monitoring, analysing and reporting on the effectiveness of marketing and communications activities and using data to optimise performance and inform future strategies.

• A degree in marketing and communications or the equivalent.
• Substantial and demonstrable experience (5+ years) in a marketing and/or communications role.
• A proven ability to develop and implement successful marketing and communications strategies.
• Experience of design and brand implementation.
• A deep understanding of event marketing principles and best practices, with a track record of driving attendance and engagement for in‑person events.
• IT skills and an advanced knowledge of digital marketing, including website management, SEO, social media marketing, and email marketing platforms (e.g., Mailchimp).
• Knowledge of the marketing, communications and media landscape both regionally and nationally and an ability to identify compelling stories and create engaging content across various formats.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present ideas persuasively and to communicate and collaborate effectively with senior managers, staff, external stakeholders, consultants and trustees.
• A proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret data and translate insights into actionable strategies.
• Knowledge of the heritage and culture sector.
• Strong management and leadership skills.
• Experience working within the museum, heritage or cultural sector.
• Established relationships with relevant media contacts.
• Basic photography and video skills.
• Knowledge of, or ability to learn, software packages such as Mailchimp and Canva.
• Experience promoting cultural events.
• Understanding of UK General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).

To apply, send an up‑to‑date CV and a supporting statement to . These should be PDF or MS Word documents and both file names should include your full name. The supporting statement should be no longer than 2 sides of A4 and should directly relate your personal skills and experiences to the list of Essential and Desirable attributes listed above. The closing date for applications is: Monday 20 April at 12 noon.

Gainsborough’s House is an equal opportunities employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all suitable‑qualified candidates, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Our selection process is based entirely on merit and experience relevant to the role. We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups. All recruitment processes at Gainsborough’s House are covered by our privacy policy, which states that your personal data is only kept for the intended purpose, and only for as long as it is relevant. Read our Privacy Policy on our website.