Head of Communications

RAND is a not-for-profit research institute with over 30 years of experience in conducting policy research for governments, international organisations, research councils, charitable foundations, and other organisations. We believe that good research helps shape sound answers to pressing societal challenges, ultimately making communities safer and more secure, healthier and more prosperous in the future. RAND Europe has approximately 180 staff across offices in Cambridge, Brussels, and the Netherlands.

We wish to recruit a Head of Communications to work in our Cambridge office to support the Communications and Partnerships Director to deliver the RAND Europe communications strategy. This role involves developing strategic messaging and ensuring consistent brand representation across all channels. The ideal candidate will be a seasoned communicator with a blend of creativity, leadership, and a keen understanding of our mission.

Key responsibilities

Deliver Communications Strategy

1. Implement an integrated communications strategy to enhance our profile and reputation among both existing and new stakeholders.
2. Align messaging with RAND Europe’s goals, tailoring content for specific target audiences.
3. Regularly review and adapt the delivery of the RAND Europe communications strategy to reflect evolving organisational aims and stakeholder needs.

Team Leadership

1. Foster a culture of collaboration between the communications team and the wider publications, partnerships, and RAND Europe research teams.
2. Coordinate with other departments to ensure clear, consistent, and unified messaging across all channels.
3. Provide mentoring and development opportunities to help team members enhance their skills and grow professionally.

Media Relations

1. Collaborate with the senior press officer to build long-term relationships with key media contacts, expanding our media network.
2. Oversee the development and distribution of press releases, media pitches, and interview preparations, ensuring timely and high-quality outputs.
3. Develop a crisis communications plan to manage potential reputational risks effectively.

Content Development

1. Oversee, review and create high-quality content, including expert commentaries, blog posts, op-eds, social media posts, and newsletters.
2. Ensure brand consistency across all communications materials by setting clear guidelines and conducting regular content audits.
3. Support thought leadership initiatives by identifying opportunities for RAND Europe experts to contribute to industry discussions and crafting targeted messages.
4. Develop campaigns to promote RAND Europe research, enhancing our reputation, maximising visibility, and supporting business objectives.
5. Create content that responds to current events and trends, positioning RAND Europe as a timely and relevant thought leader.

Digital Communications

1. Oversee the delivery of RAND Europe’s digital strategy, ensuring optimal use of our website and social media channels.
2. Lead our social media efforts, developing content and driving engagement across platforms such as X, BlueSky, LinkedIn, and other emerging channels.
3. Manage content production to maximise discoverability, accessibility, relevance, and quality across all digital formats.
4. Analyse digital performance metrics to optimise content and boost engagement rates on social media.

Stakeholder Engagement

1. Assist senior leadership in delivering regular, transparent, and impactful company-wide updates.
2. Work closely with senior leadership to support strategic initiatives and align communications with business development priorities.
3. Build strong relationships with external partners and stakeholders to promote collaboration and mutual benefits.
4. Establish feedback mechanisms to ensure stakeholder communication is interactive and adaptive.

Performance Tracking

1. Monitor the effectiveness of communication campaigns using a range of relevant metrics, such as engagement rates, website traffic, and media reach.
2. Regularly report on communication goals, successes, and areas for improvement to maintain transparency and foster continuous development.
3. Use data-driven insights to adjust communication tactics, ensuring maximum impact for future campaigns.
4. Conduct regular reviews of communication metrics to identify trends and areas for improvement.

Budget Management

1. Manage communications expenditure within budget, providing regular updates to the Communications and Partnerships Director and ensuring efficient use of resources.
2. Identify cost-saving opportunities and suggest budget adjustments to maintain or enhance the effectiveness of communications activities.

Minimum Requirements

1. Experience of managing high profile, complex stakeholder and media issues as well as building an organisation’s brand and improving stakeholder recognition.
2. Be capable of motivating, influencing and inspiring others both inside and outside an organisation.
3. Extensive understanding of the UK’s and EU’s political and policy-making structures.
4. Knowledge of and interest in engaging reach across digital platforms including social media.
5. Excellent writing and editing skills and extensive experience of leading a team and delivering successful communications strategies.
6. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
7. Experience of client management software.

Knowledge and Qualifications

1. Strong understanding of UK and EU public policy (desired).
2. Master’s degree or equivalent in communications or relevant area.

Benefits

1. Pension – 8% Employer contribution;
2. 33 days holiday allowance, including the Bank Holidays;
3. Annual salary review;
4. BUPA medical insurance;
5. Generous company sick pay;
6. Enhanced family friendly policies;
7. Group income protection scheme;
8. Group life assurance;
9. Compassionate leave;
10. Flexible working arrangements;
11. Learning and development opportunities;
12. Employee wellbeing training and support;
13. Fresh fruit every day;
14. Free on-site parking;
15. Cycle to work scheme;
16. Access to company bikes;
17. Service awards.

How to Apply

If you believe you are suited to the above role, please submit an application comprising of a CV and covering letter. Closing date for applications is 5th January 2025 with a view to interview from mid January onwards.

If you have not been contacted within 30 days of application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.

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