At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic communications and external affairs for a purpose-driven non-profit.
- Company: Respected non-profit membership organisation focused on influencing policy.
- Benefits: £50,000 pro rata, fully remote, flexible hours, and impactful work.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence policy and improve outcomes across the sector.
- Why this job: Make a genuine difference while amplifying the voice of professionals in your sector.
- Qualifications: Senior-level experience in communications, public affairs, and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Are you a strategic communications leader with a passion for influencing policy, shaping public affairs and building the reputation of purpose-driven organisations? We're working with a respected non-profit membership organisation that is seeking an experienced Interim Head of Communications & External Affairs to provide strategic leadership across communications, media, public affairs and stakeholder engagement.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role within a values-led organisation, helping to amplify the voice of its members while influencing policy and strengthening relationships across the wider sector.
The Role
Reporting into the senior leadership team, you'll lead the organisation's communications and external affairs strategy, ensuring its voice is authoritative, evidence-based and impactful. This is a broad and varied role that combines strategic leadership with hands-on delivery. You'll work closely with senior stakeholders to enhance the organisation's profile, shape key messages, manage media relations and influence national policy conversations.
Key responsibilities include:
- Developing and delivering an organisation-wide communications and external affairs strategy.
- Leading media relations, including proactive campaigns and reactive communications.
- Building relationships with policymakers, sector partners and influential stakeholders.
- Overseeing policy communications, consultation responses and thought leadership.
- Driving member engagement through compelling, high-quality communications.
- Leading and developing a small communications team.
- Advising senior leaders on reputation management, messaging and emerging opportunities.
About You
We're looking for an experienced communications professional who can operate confidently at both strategic and operational levels. You'll bring:
- Significant senior-level experience in communications, external affairs, public affairs or policy.
- A proven track record of delivering high-impact communications within a membership, healthcare, charity or similarly complex stakeholder environment.
- Strong media relations experience, including managing sensitive or high-profile issues.
- Excellent writing, editing and presentation skills.
- Experience engaging with senior stakeholders and building influential external partnerships.
- Strong leadership skills with experience managing teams and projects.
- Experience within healthcare, professional bodies, regulators or membership organisations would be highly advantageous.
Why Apply?
This is an opportunity to make a genuine difference within an organisation that exists to support professionals, influence policy and improve outcomes across its sector. If you're looking for a flexible, fully remote leadership role where your communications expertise can have real impact, we'd love to hear from you.
We look forward to receiving your application.
Locations
Interim Head of Communications & External Affairs in Hampshire, Portsmouth employer: Memcom Recruitment
Join a respected non-profit membership organisation that champions purpose-driven initiatives and values your expertise in strategic communications. With a fully remote work environment, you will enjoy the flexibility to lead impactful projects while contributing to meaningful policy influence and stakeholder engagement. This role not only offers competitive remuneration but also provides opportunities for professional growth within a supportive, values-led culture dedicated to making a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Head of Communications & External Affairs in Hampshire, Portsmouth
✨Get Involved in Local Volunteering
Dive into some local volunteering opportunities! Nonprofits often look for temp workers who have a connection to the community they serve. By getting involved, you not only gain experience but also make valuable contacts in the sector.
✨Tap into Nonprofit Networks
Use platforms like Idealist or local nonprofit job boards to find temporary gigs. These spaces are buzzing with opportunities specifically tailored for social impact projects, making it easier for us to spot the ideal role at companies like Memcom Recruitment!
✨Attend Sector-Specific Events
Join meetings, workshops, or talks hosted by organisations in the nonprofit realm. These events are perfect for making connections and learning about temporary roles that might not be widely advertised. Plus, you can showcase your passion for social impact right there!
✨Don’t Forget Online Applications!
When you spot a temporary role at Memcom Recruitment that piques your interest, go ahead and apply through their website! Tailor your message to highlight how your skills align with their mission – it shows you care about the cause, which is key in this field.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Head of Communications & External Affairs in Hampshire, Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Impact:In the world of nonprofits, it's all about the passion and commitment to making a difference. Make sure your cover letter speaks genuinely about why you're excited about this role at Memcom Recruitment. Share any experiences you've had with social impact projects or volunteering — it shows you live and breathe the cause!
Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills:For a temporary position in the nonprofit sector, focus on showcasing any specific skills or experience related to project management, community engagement, or fundraising. List any relevant work or volunteer roles on your CV, and consider including quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous positions.
References from the Sector:Including references from previous roles in the nonprofit world can really bolster your application. If you've worked on similar social-impact projects before, ask those colleagues or supervisors if they'd be willing to vouch for your skills. This adds credibility and shows you're trusted in the sector, which can be a big plus for Memcom Recruitment.
Be Ready for a Quick Turnaround:Since this role is temporary, let your interest shine through in your application! Mention in your cover letter your availability to start immediately or at short notice. It shows you're keen and ready to dive right into the exciting work at Memcom Recruitment!
How to prepare for a job interview at Memcom Recruitment
✨Show Your Passion for the Cause
When interviewing for a role in the non-profit sector, especially for a temporary position, it's crucial to convey your genuine passion for social impact. Discuss why the mission of Memcom Recruitment resonates with you and share personal experiences that reflect your commitment to similar causes.
✨Demonstrate Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Non-profit projects often require quick pivots and resourcefulness. Be ready to share examples from your past where you've adapted to changing circumstances or tackled unexpected challenges. This will show your potential as a valuable, nimble team member for the Interim Head of Communications & External Affairs position.
✨Know Your Community Tools
Familiarise yourself with any tools or platforms that are widely used in the non-profit sector like project management software or stakeholder engagement tools. Show your readiness to hit the ground running in your temporary role by discussing any experience you have with these or similar platforms.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to field scenario-based questions during your interview to assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think about how you would handle challenges typical of the non-profit sector, such as engaging with diverse stakeholders or managing project timelines effectively.
