At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead corporate communications and public affairs for a top UK food brand.
- Company: Join Premier Foods, a leader in the UK food industry with iconic brands.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, bonus, pension, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Inclusive culture that values individuality and supports disability inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of beloved brands while making a meaningful impact.
- Qualifications: Senior-level experience in corporate communications and public affairs required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 90000 £ per year.
Based in St Albans, AL1 2RE (Hybrid 50%) for a 14 Month FTC, Full Time. Join Premier Foods - where people, brands and purpose come together. We're proud to be one of the UK's largest listed food businesses, with over 4,000 colleagues across 13 sites shaping the future of some of Britain's best-loved brands, found in 94% of households nationwide.
We are now looking for an experienced Director of Corporate Affairs to join us on a maternity cover fixed-term contract. This is a senior, high-profile role and a member of the Group Leadership Team, offering the opportunity to lead and shape corporate communications, public affairs and internal engagement at a pivotal time for the business.
Reporting into the Executive Leadership Team, this role holds overall responsibility for protecting and strengthening the corporate reputation of Premier Foods with key internal and external stakeholders. As a listed business operating in a fast-paced, highly visible environment, you will lead all internal and external corporate communications and public affairs activity, working closely with the Executive Leadership Team, Investor Relations Director and senior stakeholders across the organisation.
What you’ll be doing?
- External communications
- Lead communications for financial results, trading updates, the AGM and Annual Report
- Develop and deliver strategic corporate communications plans, including investment case, growth strategy and ESG storytelling
- Oversee owned channels, including the Group website and corporate social media
- Provide senior counsel on reactive media, issues management and reputational risk
- Lead communications around M&A activity and other business-critical events
- Internal communications
- Shape and deliver an engaging internal communications strategy aligned to business priorities
- Drive engagement across all colleague channels, connecting office- and site-based colleagues
- Lead leadership conferences, town halls and senior leadership communications
- Ensure clear, compelling storytelling around strategy, culture, brand and ESG
- Public affairs
- Lead relationships with government, trade bodies, NGOs and key political stakeholders
- Ensure senior leaders are well briefed on policy, regulatory and political developments
- Oversee trade association engagement and consultation responses
- Leadership & management
- Provide trusted strategic counsel to the CEO, Executive Leadership Team and PLC Board
- Lead, develop and inspire a team of five across Corporate Affairs
- Manage external agencies and oversee corporate affairs budgets
What we need from you?
You’ll be a seasoned corporate affairs leader with:
- Senior-level experience across corporate communications, internal comms and public affairs
- A strong background in a listed organisation, including financial results communications
- Proven experience managing a high-volume press office and complex stakeholder landscape
- Confidence influencing at Executive and Board level
- A collaborative, fast-paced leadership style with strong judgement and gravitas
- Experience in FMCG, retail or a similarly high-profile consumer environment would be advantageous.
What we offer you in return?
- Competitive salary
- Car Allowance
- Bonus
- Up to 7.5% pension
- Life assurance
- Wide range of online and in-house training
- Access to an employee discount scheme, with access to hundreds of nationwide retailers
At Premier Foods, we believe in inclusion, authenticity and individuality. We aim to ensure all existing and future colleagues are given equitable opportunities and are respected, valued and encouraged to bring their true authentic selves to work no matter who they are, what they look like, who they love or what they believe in. Our culture is one where everyone is welcome. We’re proud to be a Disability Smart employer and are committed to supporting disability inclusion throughout our recruitment process.
Director of Corporate Affairs in Wheathampstead employer: Premier Foods
At Premier Foods, we pride ourselves on being more than just a leading food business; we are a community that values growth, individuality, and meaningful contributions. Located in St Albans, our hybrid work model fosters a supportive environment where employees can thrive while enjoying competitive benefits such as a car allowance, bonus opportunities, and extensive training programmes. Join us to make a significant impact within a dynamic team dedicated to shaping the future of some of the UK's most beloved brands.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Corporate Affairs in Wheathampstead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend events, and engage on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their values, recent news, and their products. This will help us tailor our responses and show that we’re genuinely interested in Premier Foods and the Director of Corporate Affairs role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. This will help us refine our answers and boost our confidence when it’s time to shine in front of the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows our enthusiasm for the role and keeps us on their radar.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Corporate Affairs in Wheathampstead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Director of Corporate Affairs role. Highlight your experience in corporate communications, public affairs, and internal engagement. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Soft Skills:We value soft skills just as much as hard skills! Make sure to highlight your leadership style, collaboration abilities, and any experience influencing at the Executive level. This will help us see how you can thrive in our environment.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Premier Foods
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Premier Foods' brands and recent news. Familiarise yourself with their corporate communications strategies and any recent press releases. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director of Corporate Affairs, your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples that highlight your collaborative approach and ability to influence at the Executive level. Think about times when you've successfully led teams through challenging situations or managed complex stakeholder relationships.
✨Engage with Their Values
Premier Foods values inclusion, authenticity, and individuality. Be ready to discuss how these values resonate with you and how you've embodied them in your previous roles. Share specific instances where you've fostered an inclusive environment or championed diversity in your workplace.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and judgement. Think about potential challenges in corporate communications or public affairs that Premier Foods might face and prepare your strategic responses. This will demonstrate your proactive thinking and readiness to tackle real-world issues.
