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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 role with opportunities for professional growth and leadership.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 77000 £ 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 (City of London)
✨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
Familiarise yourself with University Alliance's current communications strategies and recent campaigns. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the organisation and its mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing teams and developing communication strategies. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully influenced stakeholders or secured media coverage in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current issues in higher education and public policy. Being knowledgeable about the latest trends and challenges will allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews and showcase your expertise.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Communications (City of London)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure your cover letter specifically addresses why you want to work for University Alliance. Highlight your relevant experience in communications and external affairs, and how it aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise your senior-level experience in PR, media, and public affairs. Include specific examples of campaigns or strategies you've developed that demonstrate your ability to influence stakeholders and secure positive media coverage.
Highlight Leadership Skills: Since this is a senior leadership role, be sure to mention your experience in managing teams. Provide examples of how you've successfully developed team members and led initiatives that align with organisational goals.
Follow Application Instructions: When submitting your application, ensure you follow the specified format. Use the subject line 'Communications Director' and include both your CV and cover letter as attachments. Double-check that your documents are no longer than two sides of A4 each.
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 vision, mission, and recent initiatives. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
As a Director of Communications, you'll likely face questions about developing and implementing communication strategies. Be ready to discuss your past experiences and how they align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing a team and working closely with senior stakeholders. Prepare examples that highlight your leadership style, how you've developed teams, and your experience in engaging with high-level government officials or industry representatives.
✨Practice Your Communication Style
Given the nature of the role, effective communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock interviews with a friend or mentor to refine your delivery and ensure you come across as both professional and approachable.
