Interim Head of Communications & External Affairs
Non-profit Membership Organisation
£50,000 pro rata | 0.6 FTE | Fully Remote | Interim Contract
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.
