At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape communications strategy for a modern organisation.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking team in Manchester with a hybrid working model.
- Benefits: Flexible working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic environment that values diversity and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by influencing key communications at a senior level.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in communications and leadership roles.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
Location: Hybrid to Manchester city centre from 28 September 2026. Once the move takes place your contracted office will be Circle Square, Manchester. Through hybrid working we offer flexible home and office-based working opportunities and there will be times when you will be expected to attend the office to collaborate with colleagues or travel due to business need.
Job summary
We are looking for an exceptional Director of Communications to lead a modern, high-performing team. Reporting to the Executive Director of Communications and Public Affairs and sitting on the Senior Leadership Team, you will set a clear, ambitious vision for communications and ensure it is embedded early in organisational decision-making. This is a senior leadership role with real influence, advising the Executive Team on sensitive and high-profile issues, shaping how the ICO explains its role.
Key responsibilities
- Significant experience leading large, multi-disciplinary teams.
- Proven experience advising senior leaders on complex, sensitive and reputationally significant communications issues.
- Experience managing resources and budgets, including commissioning and working with agencies to enhance delivery.
- A demonstrable ability to use communications to shape outcomes - influencing understanding, behaviour, trust or organisational effectiveness.
- Experience setting and delivering communications strategy across multiple disciplines (media, digital, campaigns, stakeholder or events).
- Experience leading and developing senior managers and building high-performing teams.
- Excellent communication skills: able to distil complex or technical issues into clear, trusted and accessible messages.
- Inclusive leadership: ability to develop talent, support diversity of thinking and create an environment where people can perform at their best.
- Experience leading communications transformation or capability uplift.
Your cover letter should be no more than 1,000 words and should clearly demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria for the role.
Director of Communications employer: ID Co.
As a leading organisation in Manchester, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. With flexible hybrid working arrangements, exceptional growth opportunities, and a commitment to professional development, we ensure that our team members are well-supported in their roles. Join us at Circle Square, where your contributions will shape the future of communications while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Communications
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those who work at the company you're eyeing. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent projects and challenges. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their goals right from the get-go.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Director of Communications. Highlight your leadership skills and how you've tackled complex issues in the past.
✨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.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Communications
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your cover letter for the Director of Communications role. Highlight your experience in leading communications strategies and how it aligns with our vision at StudySmarter. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to our team!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:This is a senior role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your leadership experience. Share specific examples of how you've developed talent and fostered an inclusive environment. We love to see how you’ve influenced others and shaped outcomes in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:With a word limit of 1,000 words, clarity is key! Make sure your cover letter is well-structured and easy to read. Use bullet points if necessary to highlight your achievements and skills. We appreciate straightforward communication that gets to the point.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a seamless application process. 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 on joining the StudySmarter family!
How to prepare for a job interview at ID Co.
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the company's mission and values. Understand their current communications strategies and any recent campaigns they've launched. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director of Communications, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire teams. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed resources, budgets, or led a team through a challenging project. Be ready to discuss how you foster an inclusive environment and develop talent.
✨Prepare for Complex Scenarios
Expect questions about handling sensitive or reputationally significant issues. Think of specific situations where you've advised senior leaders on complex communications challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly and effectively.
✨Craft Your Vision
Be prepared to articulate your vision for the communications strategy. Think about how you would approach shaping outcomes and influencing understanding within the organisation. This is your chance to showcase your strategic thinking and how you can align with the company's goals.