Director of Communications and Public Relations
Director of Communications and Public Relations

Director of Communications and Public Relations

Wolverhampton Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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The University Of Wolverhampton

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead strategic communications and public relations for the University of Wolverhampton.
  • Company: Join a vital institution impacting 30,000 students in the Black Country region.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and a competitive salary.
  • Other info: We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds to reflect our community.
  • Why this job: Shape the voice of a university making a real difference in education and community.
  • Qualifications: Dynamic leader with experience in strategic communications and stakeholder engagement required.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

Location:Wolverhampton/Walsall Campuses (hybrid working available)
Salary:Competitive
Contract:Permanent, Full-Time

The University of Wolverhampton is seeking an outstanding Director of Communications and Public Relations to shape and lead our strategic communications agenda. As the only higher education institution in the Black Country, we are proud to play a vital role in the social and economic development of our region. With almost 30,000 students – including a third who are international or studying with overseas partners – and a strong focus on widening access, our work impacts thousands of lives each day.

Reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor and a key member of the University Executive Board, you will lead on all aspects of strategic communications and public relations—enhancing reputation, deepening engagement with key stakeholders, and driving alignment with our Strategy 2035.

You’ll develop and deliver an ambitious, impactful communications strategy that showcases the University’s academic strength, innovation, and community impact across regional, national, and international audiences. Your leadership will ensure our message cuts through a competitive landscape and supports our growth and distinction agenda, regionally, nationally and internationally.

About you:
You are a dynamic and credible leader with a strong track record in strategic communications and stakeholder engagement at a senior level. Adept at navigating complex organisations, you bring commercial acumen, emotional intelligence, and a flair for innovation. You understand the policy environment and challenges facing higher education and are passionate about the role of universities in shaping futures.

Join us and help define the voice of a university making a real difference.

For a confidential discussion, please contact our advising consultants at Anderson Quigley: Aino Betts ataino.betts@andersonquigley.com, +44 (0)7743 934 723 or Elliott Rae atelliott.rae@andersonquigley.com, +44 (0)7584 078 534.

Closing date: noon on Monday 18 August 2025

Final interviews: Monday 29 September 2025

As part of our commitment to ensure the diversity of our staff body reflects those of the student and local communities we serve, we particularly welcome applications from candidates of Black, Asian, or Ethnic Minority heritage, and candidates who are Disabled (including people who may not define themselves as disabled, but nevertheless encounter challenges).

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Director of Communications and Public Relations employer: The University Of Wolverhampton

The University of Wolverhampton is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee development and a focus on community impact, staff enjoy competitive salaries, hybrid working options, and the opportunity to shape the future of higher education in the Black Country. Join us in making a meaningful difference while advancing your career in a supportive and inclusive culture.
The University Of Wolverhampton

Contact Detail:

The University Of Wolverhampton Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Director of Communications and Public Relations

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the higher education sector, especially those involved in communications and public relations. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the industry.

✨Tip Number 2

Research the University of Wolverhampton's current communications strategies and recent initiatives. Understanding their goals and challenges will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your genuine interest in their mission during discussions.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how it aligns with the university's values. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in strategic communications and stakeholder engagement in previous roles.

✨Tip Number 4

Familiarise yourself with the key stakeholders at the University and in the local community. Understanding their perspectives and how to engage them effectively will be crucial in your role as Director of Communications and Public Relations.

We think you need these skills to ace Director of Communications and Public Relations

Strategic Communication
Public Relations Expertise
Stakeholder Engagement
Leadership Skills
Emotional Intelligence
Commercial Acumen
Policy Understanding in Higher Education
Project Management
Media Relations
Content Creation and Management
Crisis Communication
Brand Management
Analytical Skills
Innovation and Creativity

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Director of Communications and Public Relations position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in strategic communications and stakeholder engagement.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for higher education and your vision for the role. Discuss how your leadership style aligns with the university's goals and how you can contribute to their Strategy 2035.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise your previous roles that demonstrate your ability to lead strategic communications. Include specific examples of successful campaigns or initiatives you've led, particularly those that showcase innovation and stakeholder engagement.

Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a senior leadership role.

How to prepare for a job interview at The University Of Wolverhampton

✨Research the University and Its Vision

Before your interview, take the time to thoroughly research the University of Wolverhampton, its mission, and its Strategy 2035. Understanding their goals and how your role as Director of Communications and Public Relations can contribute to these objectives will demonstrate your genuine interest and alignment with their vision.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience

Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past roles where you successfully led strategic communications initiatives. Highlight your ability to engage stakeholders and navigate complex organisational structures, as this is crucial for the position. Be ready to explain how your leadership style can enhance the university's reputation and community impact.

✨Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence

As a candidate for a senior role, showcasing your emotional intelligence is key. Be prepared to discuss how you handle challenging situations, manage team dynamics, and foster collaboration among diverse groups. This will illustrate your capability to lead effectively in a complex environment.

✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers

Having insightful questions ready for your interviewers can set you apart. Ask about the current challenges the university faces in communications and public relations, or inquire about their expectations for the role. This shows that you are proactive and genuinely interested in contributing to their success.

Director of Communications and Public Relations
The University Of Wolverhampton
Location: Wolverhampton
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