Deputy Director of Communications and Engagement

Are you ready to shape the delivery of a leading Russell Group university’s communication strategy? Do you want to be a key player in driving our University’s communications and engagement to new heights?

In a competitive sector and a challenging communications environment, it is crucial to build and maintain the University of Leeds’ reputation through compelling communications and engagement with global news and digital media, our 10,000 staff, 38,000 students, and key stakeholders at regional, national, and global levels.

The Deputy Director of Communications and Engagement is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operational management and delivery of activity by three Assistant Directors - External & Advocacy, Community Engagement, and Digital, Content & Creative - and their specialist teams of more than 90 staff working in digital and brand, news and corporate communication, public affairs, internal communication and engagement. 

An expert in process and team design, you will support the Director in developing the strategic business plan, structures, processes, and evaluation techniques required to foster innovation, collaboration, and a more agile way of working across the Directorate to build on current activity and prepare for future opportunities.

Experienced in crisis management, you will lead senior level operational communications in response to the incidents and crises, providing strategic advice and tactical delivery to manage these and ensure the return to business continuity at the earliest opportunity.

Well-versed in public affairs practice, the Deputy Director will also help to establish a strategic approach for managing the University’s relationships with key political and policymaking influencers and to map, plan and coordinate the University’s engagement at local, regional, and national level.

What we offer in return

• 26 days holiday plus approx. 16 Bank Holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) – that’s 42 days a year!
• Generous pension scheme plus life assurance – the University contributes 21.6% of salary
• Health and Wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state-of-the-art campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls.
• Personal Development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team, and self-development courses including languages, Creative Writing, Wellbeing Therapies.
• Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.

And much more!  

For queries about the application process, please contact:
Kate Bennett, Head of Operations and Strategic Communications Planning
Email k.bennett@leeds.ac.uk

For an informal and confidential conversation about the role, please contact:
Tim Watkinson, Director of Communications and Engagement
Email: t.d.watkinson@leeds.ac.uk

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend a final assessment consisting of a timed written exercise and panel interview including a brief presentation.

Interviews are expected to be held w/c 30^th September 2024.

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