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- Tasks: Lead impactful corporate communications for financial and professional services clients.
- Company: Join one of the UK’s fastest-growing communications agencies.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse workplace, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape client strategies and make a real difference in reputation management.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in corporate communications and media relations.
- Other info: Inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives and supports career development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Headland is looking for a strategic communicator who specialises in working with financial and professional services firms. If you’re passionate about storytelling, reputation management, and are ready for your next step at Associate Director level, we’d love to hear from you. We are one of the UK’s fastest-growing communications agencies. At Headland, we believe reputations are built through purposeful relationships, and they happen by design. We blend Corporate Communications, Financial Communications, Public Affairs, Strategy & Insight, Campaigning, Digital, and more to help clients tell their stories with impact.
The Role
- Act as a senior client lead and media strategist for organisations in the financial and professional services sectors.
- Shape client strategy, ensure excellence in delivery, and play a key role in new business growth.
- Lead high-impact corporate communications programmes and campaigns, reporting into a Director and Partner.
- Shape media strategies and manage national press and stakeholder relationships.
- Oversee press office activity and support teams through complex reputational issues.
- Provide senior counsel to clients and mentor junior colleagues.
- Drive efficiency, creativity, and quality across your client teams.
- Contribute to new business development, pitches and relationship-building.
Who We’re Looking For
- A strong track record in corporate communications, specifically within financial and professional services.
- A depth of experience in media relations and strategic storytelling.
- A history of building trusted relationships with senior clients and leading high-performing teams.
- Experience contributing to and taking a central role in new business — from strategy to proposal writing.
- Excellent writing, presentation and interpersonal skills.
- A collaborative, curious, and proactive approach.
- Strong commercial awareness and strategic thinking skills.
Inclusion & Accessibility
We believe diverse perspectives make us stronger, and we’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We actively encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. If you need any adjustments during the interview process, please let us know — we’re happy to help. We are proud to have been awarded full accreditation with The Blueprint. This industry-recognised programme helps talented Black, Asian, Mixed Race and Ethnic Minority communications professionals find employers committed to their growth. It also supports organisations in attracting, retaining and nurturing diverse talent.
Interested? Please apply via LinkedIn with your CV and a short covering note. We look forward to hearing from you.
Associate Director employer: Headland
Contact Detail:
Headland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the financial and professional services sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential employers. Remember, it’s all about building those purposeful relationships!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your storytelling skills! Prepare a few compelling stories from your past experiences that highlight your strategic thinking and media relations expertise. When you get the chance to chat with recruiters or during interviews, these anecdotes can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive in your approach! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to companies you admire, like Headland, and express your interest in potential opportunities. A little initiative can go a long way in landing that Associate Director role!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent campaigns and media strategies. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs. And remember, apply through our website for a smoother process – we’d love to see your application!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Associate Director role. Highlight your achievements in corporate communications, especially within financial services, to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Covering Note: Your covering note is your chance to tell us your story! Share why you’re passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit for Headland. Keep it concise but impactful.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking: We love candidates who can think strategically! In your application, give examples of how you've shaped client strategies or led successful campaigns. This will show us you’re ready for the Associate Director challenge.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Headland
✨Know Your Story
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your career journey and how it aligns with the role of Associate Director. Be ready to share specific examples of your experience in corporate communications, especially within financial services, and how you've successfully managed client relationships.
✨Research the Company
Dive deep into Headland's recent projects, values, and their approach to corporate communications. Understanding their unique blend of services will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations related to media strategies or reputational issues. Think of past experiences where you’ve navigated complex challenges and be ready to discuss your thought process and outcomes.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Associate Director, you'll be expected to mentor junior colleagues and lead teams. Prepare examples that highlight your leadership style, how you've driven team success, and your approach to fostering collaboration and creativity within your teams.
