At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead communications strategy and manage media relations for a high-profile organisation.
- Company: Join a values-driven organisation making a real impact in the justice sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive environment with a focus on wellbeing and work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a difference in communications while working with senior leaders and key partners.
- Qualifications: Extensive media experience and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 61820 - 61820 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Communications & Public Affairs Manager to lead SLAB’s communications function. Reporting to the Director of Strategic Development, you will lead the development, delivery and evaluation of communications activity across the organisation. You will promote best practice in communications, lead our public affairs work in a changing political environment, and act as SLAB’s senior media contact. This is a high-profile role, working closely with senior leaders, Board members and external partners to ensure our communications are clear, accessible and aligned with our corporate objectives.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading SLAB’s communications strategy and annual action plans
- Delivering effective internal and external communications
- Managing media relations, stakeholder engagement and public affairs activity
- Acting as the senior media lead, including handling enquiries and supporting proactive media work
- Providing expert communications advice to senior leaders and the Board
- Managing digital communications channels and improving communications through feedback and insight
- Building strong relationships with key partners across the justice sector
- Managing communications-related services, suppliers and budgets.
To succeed in this role, you will need:
- Significant senior press and media experience
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong relationship-building and influencing skills
- Experience of working with senior stakeholders and external partners
- Extensive experience of communications planning, delivery and evaluation
- Experience across media, digital communications, web content and social media
- Strong project management and organisational skills
- The ability to manage competing priorities, work under pressure and maintain confidentiality.
What we offer:
- A meaningful role where your work makes a real impact
- A supportive, inclusive, and values-driven working environment
- Opportunities for learning and professional development
- Flexible working to support a healthy work-life balance
- A competitive salary and benefits package, including pension contributions
- Generous annual leave entitlement (34 days, rising to 42 days after two years’ service)
- Enhanced family-friendly leave entitlements
- Access to wellbeing support, mental health support, and an employee assistance programme
- Access to a wide range of discounts (including gym and retail) and the Cycle to Work scheme through our partner, Edenred.
For more details about this role and a full list of essential criteria and required competencies, please see the Job Description. For assistance, please email recruitment@slab.org.uk. Completed applications should be returned by Sunday, 21 June 2026.
Communications and Public Affairs Manager in Edinburgh employer: Scotish Legal Aid Board
At SLAB, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a meaningful role as a Communications and Public Affairs Manager in the vibrant city of Edinburgh. Our supportive and inclusive work culture fosters professional growth through continuous learning opportunities, while our competitive salary and generous benefits package, including extensive annual leave and wellbeing support, ensure a healthy work-life balance. Join us to make a real impact in a dynamic environment where your contributions are valued and recognised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Communications and Public Affairs Manager in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the communications field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent communications initiatives. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role and the organisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities of the Communications & Public Affairs Manager role. Highlight your media relations skills and strategic thinking.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Communications and Public Affairs Manager in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Communications & Public Affairs Manager. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Provide examples of how you've successfully managed communications strategies or media relations in the past. We want to see your expertise in action!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key. Keep your language straightforward and avoid jargon. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and get straight to the point.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and allows you to keep track of your application status. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scotish Legal Aid Board
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into SLAB’s communications strategy and recent public affairs initiatives. Familiarise yourself with their key projects and challenges in the current political landscape. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare specific examples that highlight your senior press and media experience. Think about times when you successfully managed media relations or led a communications campaign. Be ready to discuss how you built relationships with stakeholders and influenced decision-making.
✨Engage with Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about SLAB’s future communications goals and how they measure success. This demonstrates your strategic thinking and shows that you’re keen to contribute to their mission.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Conduct mock interviews with a friend or mentor, focusing on your verbal communication skills. Practising how you present your experiences and respond to potential questions will boost your confidence and help you articulate your thoughts clearly during the actual interview.
