Director of Communications in London

We are looking for an exceptional Director of Communications to lead and shape our corporate communications strategy at the heart of a critical national infrastructure business. As a key member of the Corporate Affairs leadership team, you will set the strategic direction for all external communications, protect and enhance our reputation, and tell the story of how our network is delivering safe, reliable and increasingly sustainable energy today, while enabling the transition to a lower carbon future.

Every day, our 6 million domestic and industrial & commercial customers rely on our network to deliver the energy they need. As Director of Communications, you will play a pivotal role in building understanding, trust and confidence in our business with customers, stakeholders and policymakers.

Here’s how you will contribute…

• Develop and deliver an integrated communications strategy that supports organisational objectives
• Lead and inspire a high-performing communications team, creating an inclusive, collaborative environment that supports professional growth, innovation and excellence
• Protect and strengthen SGN’s reputation through proactive communications, effective issues management and crisis response planning
• Drive compelling storytelling across media, digital and social channels, ensuring a consistent pipeline of engaging content aligned to business priorities and stakeholder needs
• Provide trusted communications advice to senior leaders, the Executive Committee and Board, including support for high-profile engagements, spokesperson preparation and organisational messaging
• Oversee corporate communications and reputation performance, including brand stewardship, annual reporting, impact measurement and the identification of opportunities to build trust and engagement
• Build and maintain strong relationships with media stakeholders to help increase awareness, trust and understanding of SGN’s role and priorities

What you will need:

• Proven leadership experience in a large, complex organisation, with the ability to develop, motivate and support high-performing teams in a dynamic environment
• Expert in strategic communications, with a track record of developing and delivering impactful communication plans that support organisational objectives and reputation
• Excellent understanding of media, digital and social communications, including experience using a range of channels to engage diverse audiences and stakeholders effectively
• Proven stakeholder management expertise, with the confidence to provide trusted advice and support to senior leaders during both routine and high-profile situations
• Highly organised and adaptable, with the ability to balance strategic priorities, manage multiple projects and deliver high-quality outcomes within competing deadlines
• Outstanding written, verbal and presentation skills, able to communicate complex information in a clear, engaging and accessible way to a variety of audiences
• Experience in utilities, energy or other regulated sectors would be beneficial but is not essential. We welcome applications from candidates with transferable skills and experience from similarly complex environments

Preferred Qualifications:

• CIPR or PRCA qualification or membership desirable, not essential

Not sure you meet every requirement? Research shows some people – particularly women and those from underrepresented backgrounds – may hesitate to apply unless they meet every criteria. At SGN, we value diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. If this role interests you but you’re not sure you tick every box, we’d still love to hear from you. You might be just who we’re looking for – now or in the future.

Why SGN? SGN is a highly-skilled engineering organisation that designs, builds, operates and maintains the energy systems of today and tomorrow. We deliver the energy our domestic and industrial and commercial customers need today and tomorrow. We are committed to keeping our customers safe and warm. We are an award-winning employer, including CCA Gold Awards for Great Places to Work and Inclusivity and Accessibility, and a proud Gold member of the Armed Forces Covenant.

If you require any accommodations or support during the application process, reach out to us. We're here to help ensure an inclusive and accessible experience for everyone.