Head of External Communications and Deputy Director

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

The Role
Leading a team of expert colleagues in public affairs, media relations and events, you will be responsible for shaping the University's engagement with key external stakeholders and opinion formers, including government, policymakers, and industry leaders, contributing to the university's reputation management strategy alongside marketing and communications colleagues. Reporting to the Director of Communications, you will be a trusted advisor to the Vice-Chancellor and President, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Engagement and Place and other members of Executive Board, as well as providing expert advice to the wider University community. Your work will ensure that Newcastle University's distinctive contributions to research, education and societal impact are recognised and championed across regional, national and international forums.

You will oversee delivery of a high-impact external communications strategy, identifying opportunities to position Newcastle as a pioneering fourth generation university, demonstrating our commitment to work in partnership for the benefit of society locally, nationally and globally through our education and research. This includes mapping key stakeholders and gathering relevant insight to inform your approach, developing and maintaining influential networks, and overseeing external communications and advocacy activities that support our place-based mission and global engagement objectives.

In this senior role, you will deputise for the Director of Communications and contribute to the strategic leadership of the wider Communications team, promoting a culture of collaboration, innovation and high performance.

For an informal discussion about this opportunity please reach out to Jen Middleton, Director of Communications jen.middleton@newcastle.ac.uk.

To apply please upload your CV and covering letter evidencing how your skills and experience align to the person specification as outlined in the job description.

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