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- Tasks: Create and deliver strategic communications for alumni and supporters at the University of Southampton.
- Company: Join a top 100 global university, making a real impact through education and philanthropy.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexible hours, and the chance to contribute to a major fundraising campaign.
- Why this job: Be part of a groundbreaking initiative that addresses healthcare challenges and engages a diverse community.
- Qualifications: Experience in communications and marketing, with strong project management and copywriting skills required.
- Other info: Part-time role for 24 months, with a start date no later than January 2026.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
Join to apply for the Communications Manager role at University of Southampton Malaysia.
Interviews will be held on Tuesday 23 September via Microsoft Teams, with a second in-person stage to follow for shortlisted candidates.
About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Office of Development and Alumni Relations team at the University of Southampton, creating and delivering a range of strategic communications for our alumni and supporter community.
You’ll be responsible for planning and delivering a wide range of communication tools to support our fundraising and engagement, with a particular focus on our upcoming Campaign for Southampton. This campaign, launching in 2027, aims to be our biggest fundraising effort yet, with a target of £100m. A key focus will be the Institute for Medical Innovation; the plan is to raise £50m to build this facility addressing global healthcare challenges through interdisciplinary research. You have the chance to make a real difference.
Responsibilities
We are looking for an experienced communications professional to support us with creating engaging communications. You will be responsible for activities such as:
- Developing compelling propositions
- Delivering communications to support major gift prospect fundraising events, from creating invitations and shaping themes to developing event materials and briefing speakers
- Creating and editing a wide range of communications pieces for our major gift prospect audience, from written case studies through to web content and video
- Managing the development and execution of new creative for the Campaign for Southampton
- Sourcing new stories and gathering information through interviews and desk research
- Supporting the team on fundraising and alumni engagement communications
Role Details
This is a part-time role, working four days a week, on a fixed-term contract for 24 months. Like many organisations we’re currently working hybrid, with a minimum of two days per week in the office. There is the opportunity to work more days in the office as desired. The successful applicant should be available to work on campus as and when there is a requirement.
About Us
The University of Southampton is among the top 100 universities in the world and is a founding member of the prestigious Russell Group. Our diverse global staff and student community are helping to change the world for the better. In the Office of Development and Alumni Relations, our mission is to engage and grow our alumni and supporter community through philanthropy, giving time/expertise and reputation raising to help achieve the University’s strategic objectives. It’s an exciting time to join us as we embark on our first University-wide fundraising and engagement campaign!
About You
First and foremost, you’ll have a strong understanding of communications and marketing. You’ll have several years of marketing communications experience, ideally gained in a charity, education or agency environment. We are looking for someone who can hit the ground running and has the expertise and experience to take ownership of projects.
You’ll thrive in a busy environment, have robust project management and organisational skills, and be adept at collaborating with a wide range of different stakeholders.
You’ll be a strong copywriter with a passion for language, and the ability to write different types of copy.
To be considered, the successful candidate must commence this role no later than 12 January 2026. For an informal chat about this role, contact Beth Brown, Head of A&S Communications and Marketing, on B.K.Jewitt@soton.ac.uk.
Further Details
- Job Description and Person Specification
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.
Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on +44(0)2380 592750 or recruitment@soton.ac.uk quoting the job number.
Job information
- Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
- Employment type: Contract
- Job function: Marketing, Public Relations, and Writing/Editing
- Industries: Higher Education
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Communications Manager employer: University of Southampton Malaysia
Contact Detail:
University of Southampton Malaysia Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Communications Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the University of Southampton's mission and values. Understanding their strategic objectives will help you tailor your conversations during the interview, showing that you're aligned with their goals and passionate about contributing to their fundraising efforts.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare specific examples of your past communications projects, especially those related to fundraising or alumni engagement. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience will demonstrate your capability to hit the ground running in this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the upcoming Campaign for Southampton and its focus on the Institute for Medical Innovation. Having insights into this campaign will allow you to ask informed questions and show your enthusiasm for the role during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of the University of Southampton, if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the culture and expectations of the Office of Development and Alumni Relations, which can help you stand out in your interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Communications Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Communications Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in communications and marketing, especially in fundraising or alumni engagement.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for communications and your understanding of the University of Southampton's mission. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to create engaging content and manage projects effectively.
Showcase Your Writing Skills: Since strong copywriting is essential for this role, include samples of your writing in your application. This could be links to articles, case studies, or any other relevant materials that reflect your ability to communicate effectively across different formats.
Highlight Collaboration Experience: Emphasise your experience working with diverse stakeholders. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated on projects in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a busy environment and manage multiple relationships.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Southampton Malaysia
✨Research the University and Its Campaigns
Before your interview, take some time to understand the University of Southampton's mission and its upcoming Campaign for Southampton. Familiarise yourself with their goals, especially regarding the Institute for Medical Innovation, as this will show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Prepare Your Communication Samples
As a Communications Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your writing skills. Bring along samples of your previous work, such as case studies, web content, or event materials. Be ready to discuss how these pieces were developed and the impact they had on your audience.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Given the busy environment mentioned in the job description, be prepared to discuss your project management experience. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed multiple projects, collaborated with stakeholders, and met deadlines in your previous roles.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask. Inquire about the team's current challenges, the expectations for the role, or how success will be measured in the first few months. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
