At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful communications campaigns and manage the university's reputation across various channels.
- Company: King's College London, a prestigious institution dedicated to excellence in education and research.
- Benefits: Full-time role with a fixed-term contract until 31/12/2027, promoting inclusivity and diversity.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to fostering an inclusive culture and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in shaping the university's voice and engaging with diverse audiences.
- Qualifications: Degree level education or equivalent experience in communications, media relations, and team leadership.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 90000 € 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.
Interim Deputy Director, External Communications in London employer: King’s College London
King's College London is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where creativity and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees are encouraged to grow professionally while contributing to impactful communications that enhance the university's reputation. Located in the heart of London, staff benefit from access to a vibrant cultural scene and numerous opportunities for personal and professional development.
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
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow relevant news and social media channels to keep your finger on the pulse of communications in higher education. This knowledge can help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are passionate about joining our team. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with our mission at King's College London.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Deputy Director, External Communications in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who will be reading your application. Tailor your language and examples to resonate with the values and mission of King's College London. Show us that you get what we're all about!
Showcase Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in communications, especially in media relations and crisis management. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've successfully led teams or campaigns in the past. We want to see your skills in action!
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We appreciate authenticity and want to know the real you. Share your passion for communications and how it aligns with our mission at King's. This is your chance to stand out!
Apply Through Our Website:When you're ready to submit your application, make sure to do it through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you'll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at King’s College London
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into King's College London's mission and values. Understand their approach to external communications and how they manage their reputation. This will help you align your answers with their goals and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As the Interim Deputy Director, you'll be leading a team. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in communications. Highlight your experience in crisis management and media relations, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle specific communication challenges or crises. Think of scenarios relevant to higher education and prepare your responses. This will demonstrate your strategic thinking and ability to manage issues effectively.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Diversity
King's is committed to diversity and inclusion, so be sure to discuss how you've fostered an inclusive environment in your previous roles. Share any initiatives you've led or been part of that promote diversity in communications, as this aligns with their values.
