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- Tasks: Lead communications and external affairs, shaping strategies to promote the UA vision.
- Company: University Alliance champions higher education institutions, advocating for their strengths and influence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work options, and excellent benefits.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team, make an impact in higher education, and engage with key stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Experience in PR, media, and managing teams at a senior level is essential.
- Other info: This is a permanent full-time role with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 42500 - 46250 £ per year.
Salary: £50-£55,000 per annum depending on experience plus excellent benefits
FTE: Full-time (working 37.5 hours per week)
Location: Hybrid with regular access to Central London Office
Duration of Contract: Permanent
University Alliance (UA) is looking for an experienced communications professional to lead the communications and external affairs of the organisation, working closely with the Chief Executive, Policy and Programme Teams, as well as communications and public affairs teams across our growing membership. This is a senior leadership role working directly to the Chief Executive to develop and deliver a proactive communications and external affairs strategy to promote the UA vision and mission, champion the strengths of our members, secure positive media coverage and generate stakeholder and political influence for our policy messages. In doing this, you will engage Government/s, Parliament, Whitehall, funding councils, sector agencies/bodies, national academies, industry representatives, key sector stakeholders and the media. You will also provide leadership ambassadorship along with the Chief Executive as part of the Senior Management Team with line management responsibilities for the communications team.
Responsibilities
- To develop and deliver an effective and impactful communications strategy that brings to life the UA vision, mission and strategies; strengthens further the UA brand and voice; champions the expertise of UA institutions and provides a collective voice for our members on key strategic issues.
- To develop and deliver effective external affairs, engagement and campaign strategies to influence Government, Parliament, Whitehall, Devolved Administrations, funding councils, sector agencies/bodies, national academies and industry representatives in support of our agenda.
- To work effectively with the UA Policy, Programme and Network Teams to ensure all communications and external affairs activities and engagement are accurate, relevant and impactful.
- To build close and trusted relationships with national, specialist and sector media, securing consistent and positive media coverage for our policy messages, effectively managing, and rebutting negative stories.
- To oversee all UA’s owned (and earned) channels and events to ensure content is relevant, engaging and impactful for current and prospective audiences.
- To build an effective and trusted network of communication and external affairs colleagues across our membership and in the Higher Education sector more widely.
- To effectively represent the organisation at key meetings with key partners and stakeholders.
- To effectively line manage and develop members of staff.
- To play a key role as a member of the Senior Management Team in leading and shaping the longer-term strategic direction of the University Alliance.
- To present at Subscriber Member Board meetings on the work of the Communication and External Affairs Team.
- Undertake a range of other appropriate tasks as directed by the Chief Executive in line with the role of a Director Communications and External Affairs.
About you
You will have experience and knowledge of the following key areas:
- Senior PR / external affairs / communications, media, marketing and public affairs.
- Deploying various communication channels, events, techniques, and content to target and engage specific audiences.
- Managing and developing effective teams/ individuals.
- Working at senior / national level and with Government and / or politicians and senior stakeholders.
- Right to work in the UK.
If you are successful in your application, you will be required to demonstrate your right to work in the UK. The latest information about your right to work in the UK is available on the UK government website.
University Alliance is unable to sponsor candidates.
Closing date: 11.59pm Sunday 29 June 2025
Interview date: Interviews via MS Teams
First interview - w/c 30 June 2025
Second interviews - TBC
The selection process will include an interview, and a task to be confirmed on invitation to interview.
To apply, please send the following via email with the subject line: Communications Director to info@unialliance.ac.uk:
- An up-to-date CV of no more than two sides of A4.
- A cover letter of no more than two sides of A4 addressing why you are interested in working for University Alliance and how your knowledge, skills and experience meets the requirements of the role.
- Please also mention where you saw the job advertised.
For further information, including the full job description, visit: www.unialliance.ac.uk/about/jobs/director-of-communications/
Contact Detail:
University Alliance (UK) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Communications
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the higher education sector and public affairs. Attend relevant events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues or stakeholders, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current trends and issues in higher education and public policy. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment and understanding of the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experience managing teams. As this role involves line management, showcasing your ability to develop and inspire a team will be crucial during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with University Alliance's mission and recent initiatives. Being able to articulate how your vision aligns with theirs will set you apart and show that you are genuinely interested in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Communications
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure your cover letter specifically addresses why you want to work for University Alliance and how your skills align with the role. Highlight your experience in communications, public affairs, and media relations, as these are crucial for the position.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise your previous roles in senior PR or communications positions. Include specific examples of campaigns you've led or strategies you've developed that demonstrate your ability to influence stakeholders and manage teams.
Highlight Leadership Skills: Since this is a senior leadership role, be sure to mention any experience you have in managing teams or leading projects. Discuss how you've successfully developed team members and contributed to strategic direction in past roles.
Proofread and Format: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread both your CV and cover letter for any errors. Ensure they are well-formatted and easy to read, as this reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at University Alliance (UK)
✨Research the Organisation
Before your interview, make sure to thoroughly research University Alliance. Understand their mission, vision, and recent initiatives. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Given the senior nature of the role, expect scenario-based questions that assess your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully led communications strategies or managed crises.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director of Communications, you'll be expected to lead a team. Be ready to discuss your leadership style, how you develop team members, and any successful projects you've overseen. Highlight your ability to inspire and motivate others.
✨Engage with Current Affairs
Stay updated on current affairs, especially those related to higher education and government policies. Being able to discuss relevant topics during your interview will show that you're engaged and knowledgeable about the sector.
