Head of External Communications

We have a current opportunity for a Head of External Communications on a contract basis. The position will be based in Abingdon. For further information about this position please apply.

Based in Culham, Ox14 3DB, this is a hybrid working role with a minimum of 3 days on site.

UKAEA’s mission is to deliver sustainable fusion energy and maximize scientific and economic impact, with four goals: leadership in fusion research and development, the delivery of sustainable fusion power plants, driving economic growth and jobs, and creating places that accelerate innovation and develop skilled people.

The Head of External Communications will lead and manage all external communications at UKAEA. The purpose of this function is to enable UKAEA to communicate effectively with external audiences in a way that will support the delivery of UKAEA’s mission and goals. This post will provide leadership for UKAEA in the professional management of communication and develop and advise on best practices at UKAEA.

A key factor in the success of the fusion programme and the cluster of fusion activities in the UK will be the relationship with people and organisations outside UKAEA, their understanding of the field and aspirations of fusion energy, UKAEA’s role, and the objectives and status of programmes operated by UKAEA, including ‘RACE’ and ‘STEP’. Having effective and appropriate communications channels and messages is an important foundation for this, which the Head of External Communications will deliver with the support of the wider UKAEA management team.

Key qualifications include:

1. Strong creativity and excellent judgement, with a proven track record of producing results.
2. Ability to think clearly and deliver effective communications under pressure.
3. Experience in crisis management communications, particularly managing difficult issues and negative media.
4. Strong influencing skills, working across UKAEA divisions.
5. Proven experience in delivering successful communications campaigns involving Marketing, Branding, Media Relations, Social Media, Digital (Video), Website, Events, and Print media.
6. Experience managing PR/Marketing agencies to achieve corporate communications goals.
7. Exceptional organisational skills and the ability to prioritize, operate with pace, and manage tight deadlines.
8. Degree or equivalent qualification.
9. Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
10. Proven ability to manage projects from concept to delivery.
11. Team leadership and mentoring skills.

Responsibilities:

1. Lead the creation, development, planning, and implementation of UKAEA’s external communications plans, narrative, and messaging.
2. Align UKAEA’s external communications with agreed messaging to support UKAEA’s mission and goals.
3. Build and maintain the reputation and perception of UKAEA, UKIFS, and Culham Campus, positioning the UK as a global leader in fusion energy development.
4. Provide counsel to UKAEA staff on communications matters, including crisis communications advice for senior staff.
5. Develop and maintain strong and productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders in communications.
6. Provide direction and assist in the delivery of UKAEA’s external communications content and promotional activities.
7. Work with divisional leads within UKAEA on divisional communications plans and objectives.
8. Manage UKAEA’s crisis communications ensuring responses to high-risk inquiries are coordinated and appropriate.
9. Support change management through effective communications where applicable.
10. Manage the external communications team and develop the skills of UKAEA’s communications staff.
11. Manage agencies and the External Communications budget, obtaining necessary authorizations.
12. Provide insights through analytics for continual improvement of communications delivery.
13. Report performance metrics across all external communications divisions to ExCo and the Board.
14. Act as an ambassador for UKAEA and its values.

Understanding of UKAEA’s role and the political and economic environment in which it operates is essential. Relevant professional qualification, e.g., CIPR, is preferred.

Rullion celebrates and supports diversity and is committed to ensuring equal opportunities for both employees and applicants.

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