At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful communications campaigns and manage the university's reputation across various channels.
- Company: Join King’s College London, a prestigious institution with a commitment to excellence since 1829.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Full-time role with a fixed-term contract until December 2027.
- Why this job: Make a difference in higher education communications and shape the university's public image.
- Qualifications: Degree level education and significant experience in media relations and crisis communication.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 € per year.
About Us
King’s College London’s mission is to achieve excellence in education and research, using our knowledge with purpose since 1829 for the benefit of society. Our thriving and award-winning External Communications team plays a key role in helping the University achieve its mission.
About The Role
The Interim Deputy Director, External Communications has responsibility for leading all aspects of our communications campaigns and reputation management including media relations, research communication, social media and issues management. You will provide outstanding editorial leadership working across the university and with the Executive Director of Communications and External Relations, other senior colleagues in the team, and senior managers in the organisation, to build and protect the university’s reputation. You will lead a team of external communications professionals in creating and placing compelling and engaging content aligned to the university’s strategic priorities in national and international news channels, on the website and across King’s digital channels; devising and implementing a series of communications campaigns that appeal to staff, students and external stakeholders; and supporting and designing and curating news and external campaigns aligned to strategic themes set out in the University strategy. You will also have responsibility for leading the application of brand and tone of voice across communications, contributing to their ongoing development and embedding across the university. This is a full-time post, and you will be offered a fixed term contract until 31/12/2027.
About You
To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:
- Essential criteria
- Educated to degree level or equivalent experience.
- Knowledge of communications best practice, including media relations, PR and crisis communications.
- Significant experience of media handling and crisis communication management.
- Experience of leading a team of communications professionals.
- Experience of delivering digital communications, including social and digital media.
- Extensive experience of devising, writing and implementing effective communications and engagement strategies – including both traditional and digital communications – and evaluating outcomes.
- Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to work sensitively with colleagues across the university, including senior management, and balancing professional skills in an academic environment.
- Lead the consistent application of the university’s brand and tone of voice across external communications, supporting its ongoing development and embedding across channels.
- Desirable criteria
- Knowledge and experience of working in the higher education sector.
Further Information
We pride ourselves on being inclusive and welcoming. We embrace diversity and want everyone to feel that they belong and are connected to others in our community. We are committed to working with our staff and unions on these and other issues, to continue to support our people and to develop a diverse and inclusive culture at King's.
As part of this commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and through this appointment process, it is our aim to develop candidate pools that include applicants from all backgrounds and communities. We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the advert. If we receive a strong field of candidates, we may use the desirable criteria to choose our final shortlist, so please include your evidence against these where possible.
To find out how our managers will review your application, please take a look at our ‘How we Recruit’ pages.
Closing date: 27 May 2026.
Interim Deputy Director, External Communications in London employer: KINGS COLLEGE LONDON-1
At King’s College London, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that champions professional growth and collaboration. As an Interim Deputy Director in External Communications, you will be part of a prestigious institution dedicated to excellence in education and research, with access to a wealth of resources and opportunities for career advancement. Our commitment to diversity and community ensures that every voice is valued, making it an exceptional place to contribute to impactful communications that resonate both nationally and internationally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Deputy Director, External Communications in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the communications field, especially those who have experience in higher education. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best work in media relations and digital communications. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current trends in external communications and crisis management. Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific scenarios relevant to the role at King’s College London.
✨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 genuinely interested in being part of our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Deputy Director, External Communications in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your relevant experience in communications, media relations, and team leadership. Tailor it to showcase how your skills align with the role of Interim Deputy Director.
Nail the Supporting Statement:This is your chance to shine! Use your supporting statement to directly address the essential criteria listed in the job description. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the role.
Showcase Your Digital Savvy:Since digital communications are key, don’t forget to mention your experience with social media and digital strategies. Share examples of successful campaigns you've led or contributed to, and how they made an impact.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at KINGS COLLEGE LONDON-1
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into King’s College London’s mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their recent communications campaigns and any media coverage. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their strategic priorities.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience in leading teams, especially in high-pressure situations like crisis communications. Prepare specific examples that highlight your ability to manage a team effectively while maintaining a strong brand voice across various channels.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific communication challenges or crises. Think through potential scenarios relevant to the higher education sector and outline your approach to managing them, focusing on both strategy and execution.
✨Engage with Their Digital Presence
Since digital communications are key for this role, be prepared to discuss your experience with social media and digital content creation. Bring examples of successful campaigns you've led, and be ready to suggest ideas for enhancing King’s online presence.
