Head of Engagement Communications

Job Location: Gateway House

Employee Weekly Hours: 37.00

Job Description: 

Main duties and responsibilities

De Montfort University (DMU)

De Montfort University (DMU) is an ambitious, globally minded university with a relentless focus on high‑quality teaching and learning, and a strong commitment to delivering a sector‑leading student experience. A culturally rich university with a clear commitment to the public good, DMU provides a stimulating and inclusive environment in which staff and students are supported to thrive.

The Directorate

The Marketing and Communications Directorate delivers a comprehensive, full‑service offer, supporting the University across all aspects of marketing, student recruitment, communications and engagement. This includes brand and creative development, student recruitment campaigns, faculty marketing, reputation and media relations, internal and external communications, events, admissions and widening participation, enquiry management, and web and digital development.

Our communications services play a vital role in showcasing the University’s achievements, strengthening its reputation, and supporting student recruitment through clear, compelling and audience‑focused engagement.

The Role

As Head of Engagement Communications, you will lead the strategic development and delivery of communications that engage staff, students and external audiences. Operating at a senior level, you will play a critical role in communicating the University’s refreshed strategy and supporting its ambitions, reputation and transformation agenda.

You will drive innovative, insight‑led communications and campaigns that enhance the student experience, support internal change, and strengthen engagement with key stakeholder groups. You will shape and influence communications strategy across the institution, ensuring a consistent, high‑quality and impactful approach across all channels, including social media and student‑facing communications.

Leading a talented team of communications professionals, including four direct reports, you will provide expert advice across the University while fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration and excellence. With responsibility for policy development, service improvement and budget management, you will ensure the function delivers measurable impact and supports positive cultural change at a pivotal time for DMU.

This is a fixed‑term opportunity until July 2027.

Ideal Candidate

We are seeking a credible communications leader who can inspire teams and deliver real impact. You will bring:

• Significant experience in internal and/or student communications within a complex organisation (HE experience desirable)
• Strong experience of leading high‑performing communications teams
• Excellent influencing and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to operate confidently at senior level
• Proven expertise in strategic communications, including digital and social media
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• A track record of delivering successful campaigns and projects informed by insight and data
• Strong relationship‑building skills and credibility as a trusted adviser

Please click here to view the job description and person specification. 

Further Information

The closing date for applications is 10 May 2026, with interviews expected to take place during the week commencing 18 May 2026.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Ella Parker at ella.parker@dmu.ac.uk.

De Montfort University is committed to providing a working and learning environment that enriches lives, supports individuals to reach their full potential, and where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As an educator and shaper of society, the university aims to role model positive behaviours both within the university and to reflect the diversity of the wider community. As such we welcome applications from all potential candidates.

For general enquiries, please contact peopleservices@dmu.ac.uk.

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