Director of Marketing and Communications

The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research. Set within its Guildford-campus, its 3,000 staff provide exceptional teaching and practical learning to over 16,000 students. A home to research excellence, Surrey provides world-class research facilities and an environment to nurture and develop academic research into real world commercial applications.

The University is seeking to appoint its Director of Marketing and Communications, a senior role bringing together the marketing, communications, events, public affairs, creative services and digital functions for the University, leading an existing team of around 70 professionals.

Reporting directly to the Vice-President, Global and forming part of the Global Division’s Senior Leadership Team, the Director of Marketing and Communications will:

• Drive the planning, development and implementation of a marketing and communications strategy that supports delivery of the University’s long-term strategy and priorities.
• Develop, implement and lead effective approaches to global marketing, in a way which delivers meaningful outcomes in terms of enhanced domestic and international student recruitment.
• Provide strategic communications guidance and leadership to the Executive Board and wider University.
• Build and protect the University’s reputation in the media, social media and in public discourse, including crisis management.
• Lead the development of critical online engagement platforms, including websites and social media channels.

The successful candidate will either be sat in a wider marketing and communications role or in a dedicated marketing role with a desire to expand their remit. Either way, the role will require a natural, authentic leader who can balance strategic challenges with the imperative to deliver fast, effective solutions through a dedicated team of professionals.

A background in higher education or some time spent within the sector is highly desirable. Beyond that, an ability to operate in a dynamic, fast changing, complex environment is essential. This is a great opportunity to help shape the future path of the University and will suit someone who is driven, highly collegiate, responsive and innovative.

The University of Surrey has engaged the services of The McLean Partnership, to whom applications should be sent by midnight on Friday 24^th May 2024.

To apply, please send a concise covering letter (maximum two pages) and CV to The McLean Partnership via surrey@mcleanpartnership.com, reference: UoS/M&C. Initial meetings will take place in the month of May and formal interviews will take place in early June 2024.

A full candidate prospectus is available. For an informal and confidential conversation before applying, please call Caius Freeman (07517 950 934) or Paul Soothill (07775 598 446).

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