Manager, External Communications - Defence in Farnborough

Leading strategic communications for an international defence software company trusted by 50+ nations and NATO, you will shape our narrative, drive media engagement and lead our global communications function – bringing strategic intent and supporting our business objectives with every interaction. If you understand how communications drive influence, build reputation and shape stakeholder perceptions in complex, high‑stakes environments – this role is for you.

The role: shaping the narrative and leading our communications strategy

Reporting to the Head of Defence Marketing & Communications, you will be responsible for the strategic communications function for Systematic Defence across our global markets, leading a small, distributed team of Communications Managers and PR Consultants – including direct line management of staff based in the UK, the USA and Germany. Setting the direction while keeping in close touch with the work, you will develop and execute strategies that position Systematic as a thought leader in terms of military C4ISR technology, manage media relationships and take the lead on stakeholder engagement.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Strategic Communications & Narrative Leadership
  • Driving the narrative framework for Systematic Defence – defining key messages, positioning themes and a thought leadership agenda – while developing UK and European communications strategies aligned with business development priorities.
  • Providing strategic counsel to senior leadership on high‑profile opportunities and sensitive situations, identifying ways to shape industry conversations and influence stakeholder perceptions.
• Press, Media & Public Relations
  • Leading the development and execution of Systematic’s earned media strategy across all international defence markets, setting the approach for journalist and publication relationships that build long‑term brand credibility and drive proactive coverage at the right moments.
  • Providing strategic direction and line management to the primary media liaison function, overseeing the framework for communications planning and ensuring the team is equipped to act with professionalism and sound judgement under pressure.
  • Driving the editorial strategy and overseeing creation of high‑impact content – including thought leadership articles, press releases, case studies and executive commentary – ensuring all output aligns with approved messaging and brand guidelines.
  • Identifying and developing internal subject matter experts as external spokespeople and managing external agencies and specialist suppliers as needed.
• Team Leadership & Management
  • Acting as line manager to Communications Managers and a PR & Engagement Consultant across the USA, Germany, the UK and Denmark, setting clear objectives and KPIs, with regular performance reviews and coaching conversations.
  • Enabling collaboration across the international communications function, ensuring consistency while respecting regional nuances and supporting your team’s professional development.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Event Communications
  • Developing regional communications strategies for major exhibitions, conferences and events and supporting business development with tailored messaging guidance.
  • Collaborating with the Marketing Campaigns team to ensure cohesive, integrated messaging across all touchpoints and managing stakeholder and government relations where appropriate.

Join a collaborative international team

You will be a key member of the Defence Marketing & Communications team, working closely with the Head of Defence Marketing & Communications and senior marketing colleagues across three pillars: narrative/communications, marketing/digital and events/engagement. You will be based primarily in our Farnborough office while leading communications professionals across the USA and Germany and collaborating daily with the wider team in Denmark and the UK.

What you bring: strategic communications expertise, media savvy and leadership capability

Ideally, you will have 10+ years of experience in communications – with a background in journalism, public relations or government communications – and a proven track record of building media relationships, securing high‑profile coverage and managing complex stakeholder communications. Having led communications teams, you will know how to translate business objectives into strategies that deliver measurable impact.

We are looking for someone who:

• has strong expertise in media relations and press strategy, with an established network of defence or technology media contacts.
• combines strategic thinking with strong editorial judgment and exceptional writing skills across multiple formats.
• has experience of line management for communications professionals and building high‑performing teams in complex, international environments.
• communicates with confidence and credibility across all levels – from journalists and government stakeholders to internal executives.
• understands crisis communications and can manage sensitive issues with sound judgement.
• brings experience in defence, government or security sectors and familiarity with military audiences and defence technology (desirable but not essential).

Please note that you must be eligible to live and work in the UK and meet the requirements for a BPSS check or additional security checks commensurate with your role.

Benefits – Systematic Farnborough

• Permanent, full‑time position (37.5 hours per week) based in Farnborough, starting immediately.
• Hybrid working pattern with two days working from home; flexibility required around event days, with time off in lieu provided.
• Stakeholder pension scheme operated by Scottish Widows.
• 25 days of holiday plus bank holidays.
• Corporate discounts through our ADS Group membership.