At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead communications and advocacy to elevate the Foundation's profile and inspire activity in communities.
- Company: Join the London Marathon Foundation, dedicated to promoting health and community engagement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for professional growth, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to collaborate with key stakeholders and influence policy.
- Why this job: Shape impactful narratives and drive change in underserved communities through strategic communication.
- Qualifications: Senior-level experience in public affairs, strong communication skills, and a passion for equity.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
The Head of Public Affairs and Communications is responsible for developing and delivering an integrated external affairs strategy that elevates the London Marathon Foundation’s profile, strengthens relationships, and drives support for its mission to inspire activity in underserved communities. The role shapes how the Foundation communicates its story and engages key stakeholders, while also leading hands‑on delivery across public affairs and communications.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and delivery of a communications and advocacy plan aligned with the Foundation’s mission, grant‑making priorities and funding for direct delivery.
- Help to position the Foundation as a trusted voice on the importance of physical activity, reducing inequalities and creating healthier, more connected communities.
- Deliver a public affairs programme, including monitoring and reporting on relevant policy, research and sector developments.
- Develop an advocacy agenda to strengthen the Foundation’s influence on issues including school sport, physical activity inequality and community infrastructure.
- Develop and manage relationships with partners, sector bodies and government stakeholders, advisers and officials.
- Work with London Marathon Events to identify opportunities for collaboration and integration of messaging on joint objectives, such as our work with children and young people.
- Oversee external communications across media, digital channels, publications and events.
- Support internal communications and equip staff and trustees with messaging and briefing materials.
- Manage the Communications & Engagement Manager and oversee budgets, planning cycles and performance measurement.
Success Measures
- Increased visibility and profile of the Foundation across media, policy and sector audiences.
- Stronger stakeholder relationships and engagement with priority external audiences.
- Delivery of effective advocacy and communications activity aligned to organisational priorities.
- Consistent, high-quality messaging across external and internal communications channels.
Skills and Experience
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong political and stakeholder awareness and relationships.
- Ability to translate complex issues into compelling narratives.
- Excellent relationship‑building skills.
- Strategic thinking with the ability to deliver at pace.
- Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
Required Experience
- Senior‑level experience in external affairs, communications, public affairs or advocacy.
- Proven track record of shaping and delivering communications that drive influence and visibility.
- Experience managing media relations, corporate communications and reputation issues.
- Strong understanding of UK policy landscapes, particularly relating to health, physical activity, communities or inequality.
- Senior‑level communications, public affairs or advocacy experience.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
- Ability to lead integrated communications and advocacy activity.
- Excellent writing, messaging and briefing skills.
- Experience in the charity, foundation, sport, health or community sectors.
- Experience of working on issues related to physical activity, inequality or community development.
- Experience of managing people and overseeing budgets.
Head of Public Affairs and Communications in London employer: London Marathon Events
The London Marathon Foundation is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that champions equity, diversity, and inclusion. With a strong commitment to inspiring activity in underserved communities, employees benefit from meaningful work that directly impacts public health and community engagement. The Foundation fosters professional growth through collaborative partnerships and strategic initiatives, making it an ideal place for those passionate about advocacy and communications.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Public Affairs and Communications in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the public affairs and communications field. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a personal website that highlights your previous work in communications and advocacy. Include case studies, successful campaigns, and any media coverage you've received. This will help you stand out when you’re chatting with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around physical activity and community engagement. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged. So, get your application in and let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Public Affairs and Communications in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft Your Story:We want to hear your unique journey! Make sure to weave in your experiences that align with our mission. Highlight how your background in public affairs and communications can elevate the Foundation's profile.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t hold back on those exceptional written and verbal communication skills! Use clear, compelling language to demonstrate how you can translate complex issues into engaging narratives that resonate with our stakeholders.
Tailor Your Application:Make it personal! Tailor your application to reflect our values and the specific responsibilities of the role. Show us how your strategic thinking and relationship-building skills can drive our advocacy agenda.
Apply Through Our Website:Ready to take the plunge? We encourage you to apply through our website for a seamless experience. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at London Marathon Events
✨Know the Foundation Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the London Marathon Foundation's mission and recent initiatives. Understand their focus on underserved communities and how they advocate for physical activity. This knowledge will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Craft Your Narrative
Prepare to discuss your past experiences in public affairs and communications by framing them as compelling stories. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully influenced policy or built strong stakeholder relationships, showcasing your ability to translate complex issues into relatable narratives.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Be ready to demonstrate your strategic thinking skills. Think about how you would develop an integrated communications and advocacy plan for the Foundation. Bring ideas to the table that reflect your understanding of current UK policy landscapes and how they relate to health and community development.
✨Engage with Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the Foundation's work. Ask about their current challenges in public affairs or how they measure the success of their communications strategies. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
