At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful communications and engage diverse audiences at a world-class university.
- Company: UCL, a leading global university committed to innovation and community engagement.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, pension scheme, gym access, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team and contribute to meaningful change in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Shape communications during a transformative period and make a real impact on UCL's mission.
- Qualifications: Experience in internal communications, strong writing skills, and team leadership.
The predicted salary is between 68284 - 76244 £ per year.
Location: London
Working Pattern: Full time
Salary: £68,284-£76,244
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Type: Hybrid
Closing Date: 18-Jun-2026
About us
At UCL, we believe world‑changing ideas begin with diverse minds coming together. As one of the world’s leading universities and London’s global university, we are committed to advancing knowledge, driving innovation and creating meaningful impact locally and globally. The Vice‑President External Engagement portfolio plays a central role in shaping how UCL connects with its communities — from students and staff to partners, policymakers and the wider public. Our Communications team helps bring UCL’s mission, strategy and stories to life through engaging, creative and audience‑focused communications.
About the role
This is a senior and influential role within our Communications team, reporting to the Head of Communications and helping to lead a high‑performing group of communications specialists. You will play a key role in delivering engaging and impactful internal communications that connect our staff and students to UCL’s strategy, priorities and culture. Working closely with colleagues across the university, you will help ensure our communications are clear, timely, inclusive and strategically aligned. We are looking for someone who combines strong editorial judgement with creativity and strategic thinking. You will oversee the development of compelling campaigns, leadership communications, digital content, events and storytelling initiatives that resonate with a wide range of audiences. This role is both strategic and hands‑on. One day you may be advising senior leaders on communications approaches for a major institutional programme; the next, shaping a campaign narrative, mentoring colleagues, analysing audience insight or identifying new and innovative ways to engage our communities. You will also help foster a positive, collaborative and supportive team culture, enabling colleagues to do their best work while balancing multiple priorities across a busy and evolving communications landscape.
About you
You will be an experienced communications professional with a strong background in internal communications, corporate communications, PR or agency environments, ideally within a large, complex or highly matrixed organisation. You will be an exceptional writer and editor, able to translate complex information into engaging, audience‑focused communications that inform, connect and inspire. Comfortable operating both strategically and operationally, you will have experience developing impactful communications approaches while also creating high‑quality content across multiple channels and formats. You will bring proven experience of leading and developing teams, building trusted relationships with senior stakeholders and balancing competing priorities in a fast‑paced environment. We are looking for someone with excellent editorial judgement, creativity and a strong instinct for storytelling — someone who understands how to use campaigns, digital channels, audience insight and creative content to drive engagement and support organisational objectives. You will be collaborative, curious and solutions‑focused, with the confidence to influence at all levels and the ability to remain calm and organised during periods of change and complexity.
What we offer
- 41 days’ holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, 6 closure days)
- Option to purchase 5 additional days’ annual leave
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme, season ticket loan, and immigration loan
- Relocation support for eligible posts
- On‑site nursery and gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Staff Support Service (employee assistance programme)
- Discounted medical insurance
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in UCL’s workforce, including those from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, and – for Grade 9 and 10 roles – women.
Job Ref: B23-00205
Closing Date: 18-Jun-2026
Deputy Head of Communications, University College London employer: Rachel Miller
At University College London, we pride ourselves on being a leading global university that champions diversity and innovation. As the Deputy Head of Communications, you will thrive in a collaborative and supportive work culture, with access to extensive employee benefits including 41 days of holiday, a defined benefit pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth. Join us in shaping impactful communications during a transformative period, all while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Communications, University College London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former UCL employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a role in the communications team. Personal connections can make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching UCL’s recent communications campaigns. Be ready to discuss how you would contribute to their mission and bring fresh ideas to the table. Show them you’re not just a fit, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Since this role is all about engaging narratives, think of examples from your past work where you’ve successfully communicated complex ideas. Make sure you can articulate these clearly during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the UCL family. Let’s get you that Deputy Head of Communications role!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Communications, University College London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Deputy Head of Communications role. Highlight your background in internal communications and storytelling, as these are key aspects of the job.
Showcase Your Creativity:Don’t just list your experiences; use your application to demonstrate your creative flair. Share examples of campaigns or communications strategies you've developed that had a real impact. We want to see how you think outside the box!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is crucial. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. Remember, you’ll be translating complex information into engaging content, so show us you can do that right from the start.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rachel Miller
✨Know UCL Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into UCL's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understanding their strategic goals, especially around the UCL East campus and community engagement, will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Storytelling Skills
As a Deputy Head of Communications, storytelling is key. Prepare examples of how you've crafted compelling narratives or campaigns in the past. Be ready to discuss how you can translate complex information into engaging content that resonates with diverse audiences.
✨Highlight Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires working closely with various stakeholders. Share specific instances where you've successfully collaborated with teams or senior leaders to achieve communication goals. Emphasise your ability to foster a positive team culture and support colleagues in a fast-paced environment.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions about your strategic thinking and editorial judgement. Think of scenarios where you've had to balance competing priorities or advise on communications strategies during significant changes. Show them you can operate both strategically and operationally.
