At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic media and research communications to enhance the University’s global impact.
- Company: University of Bath, a globally respected institution with a strong reputation for excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and potential for a four-day week.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on innovation and impactful storytelling.
- Why this job: Shape the future of communications in a prestigious university setting.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in senior communications roles and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 47389 - 56535 £ per year.
Founded 60 years ago, the University of Bath has grown into a globally respected institution.
Renowned for excellence in teaching and research, it is ranked 125th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2027.
The University is ranked 8th in the Guardian University rankings and 7th in the UK by The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026, where it is also named Sport University of the Year.
The Head of Strategic Media and Research Communications will play a pivotal part in building on our strengths as we begin to embed Bath’s new 10-year strategy, with a particular focus on global impact.
We're seeking someone with expertise in building and implementing strategic media relations plans and has experience managing a busy press office and team leadership.
- University of Bath | Claverton Down, Bath (Hybrid, at least 2 days per week on campus)
- Full-time, Permanent (we are open to discussing a four-day week for the right candidate)
About the role
As Head of Strategic Media and Research Communications, you will lead the University's earned media strategy, driving high-impact communications that support the University’s strategic priorities and strengthen our reputation nationally and internationally.
You will collaborate with senior leaders, researchers, and communications colleagues to find compelling stories, cultivate meaningful external relationships, and develop coordinated campaigns that engage media, policymakers, funders, partners, and other influential audiences.
This is both a strategic and hands‑on leadership role working closely with the Associate Director Communications and Engagement.
You'll provide expert counsel to senior collaborators, lead on complex reputational issues, and build the conditions for your team to thrive and deliver outstanding results.
What you’ll be doing
Develop and deliver an ambitious media and research communications strategy that strengthens the University's profile and influence nationally and internationally.
- Shape integrated communications activity by working alongside communications colleagues to identify and amplify research, expertise and institutional stories that support the University's strategic priorities.
- Lead, coach and inspire a high-performing media relations team.
- Oversee the University press office and media monitoring function.
- Lead on sensitive and high-profile communications issues with sound judgement and professionalism.
- Act as a trusted adviser to university leaders on media relations, messaging and public positioning.
- Evaluate impact, champion innovation and continuously improve how we tell our stories.
- Build strong partnerships with academics, professional services colleagues and senior leaders across the University.
- Build relationships with media partners and communications agencies in the UK and internationally.
- Manage communications agency relationships and associated budgets, ensuring value for money and measurable impact.
About you
We're looking for a communications professional who is as skilled at building relationships as they are at developing strategy.
You’ll bring
- Proven experience in senior communications and media relations leadership roles, including responsibility for strategic planning, stakeholder management, and reputation building.
- A strong understanding of today's global communications landscape and how earned, owned, and paid channels work together and a track record of designing and delivering successful integrated communications programmes.
- Experience leading and developing people, creating an inclusive and supportive team culture.
- Experience managing reputational issues and working under pressure.
- Experience using evaluation and performance metrics to optimise communications activity and demonstrate impact.
- Curiosity, resilience and a genuine interest in current affairs, research, and public impact.
- Confidence advising senior stakeholders and influencing at all levels.
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Strategic Media and Research Communications in Bath employer: University of Bath
The University of Bath is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from comprehensive training opportunities and a supportive culture that values work-life balance. Located in a vibrant city, the university provides a fulfilling career path for those looking to make a meaningful impact in higher education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Strategic Media and Research Communications in Bath
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Strategic Media and Research Communications in Bath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get Your Story Straight:In public relations, storytelling is everything! Make sure your CV highlights your experience in crafting compelling narratives and managing media relations. Share specific examples of campaigns you've worked on, and don’t forget to include any press coverage you've generated—it's impressive proof of your skills!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since PR is all about communication, we want to see your best writing samples. Include pieces like press releases, blog posts, or social media content that you've created. This gives us a taste of your voice and your ability to convey messages clearly and effectively, which is crucial for a role in this field.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be more than just a recap of your CV; it’s your chance to shine! Emphasise why PR excites you and how your background fits with the mission of University of Bath. Show us that you’ve done your homework and speak to why you’re passionate about the work we do.
Connect the Dots:When you’re writing your application, think about how your past experiences link to the responsibilities of the role. Mention any internships, volunteer work, or projects that involved public speaking, event planning, or strategic communication. This will help us see how you can seamlessly bring your skills into a full-time position at University of Bath.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bath
✨Master the Art of Storytelling
In public relations, storytelling is key. We should prepare compelling narratives about past campaigns or projects we’ve worked on. Think about how we can illustrate our impact and creativity in those stories—be ready to discuss specific examples that showcase our skills in managing media relationships and crafting messages.
✨Know Your PR Tools Inside Out
Familiarity with PR tools like Cision or Meltwater is crucial. We need to be able to discuss how we’ve used these tools in past roles or projects. If we've worked on media lists, press releases, or analytics reports, let’s have those experiences ready to share along with metrics we’ve achieved to back up our claims.
✨Stay Current with Industry Trends
We’ve got to stay sharp on the latest trends and events impacting the public relations field. Having a few insights ready about recent campaigns or shifts in media landscapes can show that we’re engaged and knowledgeable. This will also help us make connections between our experiences and the current state of the industry.
✨Showcase Our Versatility
As full-time PR professionals, we need to demonstrate our adaptability. Be ready to talk about how we've handled challenging situations, managed crises, or adapted strategies on the fly. Employers will appreciate our ability to pivot and find solutions under pressure, so let’s have those scenarios at our fingertips to discuss.
