Deputy Head of Communications (Policy, Development and Corporate)
The Deputy Head of Communications (Policy, Development and Corporate) plays a central role in extending and enhancing the influence of the Academy with key external audiences. You'll be leading a small team to devise and deliver communications that meet the needs of our policy, corporate and development audiences and lead to tangible outcomes. Priority projects in 2027 include coordinating delivery of our 125th anniversary campaign and launching our new strategic plan.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, in line with our commitment to create a diverse and inclusive working environment, promote equal opportunity, and address under-representation. We will make reasonable adjustments to support disabled job applicants and offer an interview to those meeting the minimum selection criteria.
Role Overview
We're looking for an experienced strategic communications professional who enjoys bringing colleagues together across different teams to align on a shared goal. You will be comfortable working in complex environments, turning competing priorities and differing perspectives into clear plans and effective action. You will be able to build relationships with and influence colleagues at all levels, as well as lead and develop a high-performing team. Alongside a strong track record of developing and delivering integrated communications strategies, you will bring the judgement, credibility and collaborative approach needed to help the Academy achieve its ambitions.
- Lead a small team to devise and deliver communications that meet the needs of policy, corporate and development audiences
- Devise integrated communications strategies aligned to the Academy's policy, corporate and development audiences
- Build relationships with and influence colleagues at all levels
- Lead and develop a high-performing team
- Turn competing priorities and differing perspectives into clear plans and effective action
- Use judgement, credibility and a collaborative approach to help the Academy achieve its ambitions
About the British Academy
The British Academy - the UK's national body for the humanities and social sciences - is seeking a Deputy Head of Communications to join our Communications and Marketing team, leading strategic communications focused on our policy, corporate and development audiences., The British Academy is the UK's national body for the humanities and social sciences, established by Royal Charter in 1902. We mobilise these disciplines to understand the world and shape a brighter future. Today's complex challenges can only be resolved by deepening our insight into people, culture, and societies. With a Fellowship of around 1,700 leading national and international academics, the Academy invests in researchers and projects across the UK and overseas; engages the public with fresh thinking and debates; and brings together scholars, government, business, and civil society to influence policy. The Academy currently has five directorates: Communications & Engagement; Development; Policy; Research; and Resources, plus a small Governance & Fellowship Team. Working at the Academy Our senior management team have worked with staff to foster a culture of collaboration, respect, and empathy, in which all contributions are recognised as we work towards our common goals. Our people strategy and working practices focus on building strengths and sharing insights, with learning & development, wellbeing, and equality, diversity & inclusion at the centre of how we operate as an organisation. Investing in our staff and encouraging a healthy work/life balance is central to our success, as we move forward and continue to grow.
Benefits
- Our competitive benefits package including a 35-hour working week, with hours and location worked flexibly under our hybrid-working policy; 34 days' annual leave plus Bank Holidays; a subsidised canteen and an excellent occupational pension.
Location
The British Academy is based at 10-11, Carlton House Terrace, London SW1, a Grade 1 listed building.
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Deputy Head of Communications (Policy, Development and Corporate) employer: The British Academy
The British Academy is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that values the contributions of every team member. Located in the heart of London, employees benefit from a vibrant environment with access to professional development opportunities, competitive benefits, and a commitment to fostering talent within the humanities and social sciences sector.
