Research Communications Manager

Location: Flexible, Remote

Purpose of the post

This role will work hand-in-hand with the comms team and the HDR UK research community to tell the compelling story of data in health research. You will also work with colleagues across HDR UK programmes to pull together the wider narrative of our research impact.

You will help deliver the institute’s communications strategy, working with colleagues to manage a range of tools and channels, including media relations, digital communications, social media, email, publications and events, to reach audiences across academia, NHS, industry, charities, as well as patients and the public. 

This is a unique and exciting opportunity for an experienced science communications professional to lead and deliver communications on cutting-edge research using health data and demonstrate the tangible difference it is making to people’s lives.

We are seeking an individual with a proven track record in research communications who has successfully worked on complex, scientific projects with multiple partners. The successful candidate will share our values, have strong influencing and collaboration skills and be comfortable with working at pace, moving quickly to prioritise resources where needed. 

Responsibilities

• Implement HDR UK’s communication strategy with a specific focus on communicating scientific and research impact.
• Horizon scan for opportunities to share research impact that help raise the profile of the institute and its research/scientific outputs.
• Lead, motivate and line manage two Content and Communication Officers, supporting their development in their roles.
• Establish effective relationships and work in partnership with communication, policy and programme teams across the institute and partners.
• Working with Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement colleagues, ensure our work across communications is shaped by patients and the public as needed.
• Manage media relations at HDR UK to gain maximum positive coverage for the institute, manage reputational risk and respond effectively to media interest.
• Respond with agility and pace to broad range of emerging requirements across the Director’s office and wider Senior Leadership Team.
• Lead planning and preparations for the bi-annual HDR UK International Advisory Board meetings. 

Person Specification:

• Experience of creating and delivering successful scientific communications strategies and plans
• Ability to understand health research, process complex information and present targeted messages to different audiences.
• Experience in media relations or journalism in science, environment, or related areas.
• Experience of producing high-quality content for online and offline channels.
• Experience of developing and managing traditional and innovative communications channels.
• Demonstrable experience of managing website content, including use of CMS.
• Experience of managing issues under time pressure, ensuring statements and briefing materials are prepared.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate scientific content effectively and confidently with people at all levels.
• Excellent project management skills and experience with a proven track record of delivering challenging projects on deadline.

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