Communications Officer

BACKGROUND:

The Leverhulme Trust is a charity that supports ambitious blue skies research. Awarding between £100–120 million annually, the Trust is amongst the largest all-subject providers of research funding in the UK, primarily in the university sector. The Trust’s income comes from an endowment, so we do not fundraise, campaign or advocate.

MAIN PURPOSE OF ROLE:

The Trust currently undertakes various communication activities to promote its grant schemes and showcase the research it funds. It maintains an accessible and informative website, promotes its schemes and grantees on X (previously Twitter), produces high-quality print publications (Annual Review, Newsletters, etc.), hosts several high-profile events annually and maintains a database of key stakeholders with whom it interacts.

This role will have responsibility for developing digital assets, managing the Trust’s web presence, and leading on particular strands of social media activity. The ideal candidate would have experience of working in either the charity or the university sector.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist with developing and delivering the Trust’s communications strategy.
• Work collaboratively with Trust staff and grant holders to write, edit and proofread a range of communication materials.
• Develop and commission digital assets and messaging for key digital channels, including creative audio and visual communications such as podcasts and short films.
• Develop, collate, and update online content, including the website and social media channels.
• Plan and organise virtual and live events as part of the communications strategy.
• Assist with the evaluation and monitoring of communications activities, analysing the results to inform future strategy.
• Manage the advertising and email marketing campaigns.
• Identify and maintain a database of key stakeholders, providing timely and relevant information to them as appropriate.

• Generate lists and reports from the grants management system to be used in publicity material.
• Contribute to any other activities directly linked to communications-related tasks.

KEY RELATIONSHIPS:

External: liaise with grant holders, designers, printers, advertising agencies, the press and university administrative staff.

Internal: close contact with Trust staff at all levels regarding communication-related tasks. Close liaison with the Director on communications strategy.

SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

• Educated to degree level, highly IT literate.
• Communications experience in print, digital and social media.
• Experience in using social media tools effectively for outreach and engagement.
• Proven experience in producing effective web content.
• Excellent writing skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to communicate complex concepts to a non-specialist audience.
• Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, taking initiative when necessary and prioritising effectively to meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in working with a range of computer-based and online applications, including website content management systems.
• Competence in the design and production of communications and marketing materials for print and presentations.
• Experience, or willingness, to develop and coordinate audio and visual media (podcasts, films).
   

The following would be desirable:

• Background in science or research communications.

COMPETENCIES:

• Good team working skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Effective time management skills.
• Ability to prioritise tasks and work to deadlines.
• Able to liaise effectively and confidently with people at all levels.
• Ability to translate creative ideas into a practical approach.
• A proactive, friendly and flexible approach.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This role is one of two communications staff in the Trust so while the focus is on digital assets, a key aspect of the role is to be able to work broadly and cooperatively across the whole range of work.

While the Trust has historical links to Unilever, though the original endowment of shares in Lever Brothers, and continues to receive support for Human Resources services from the company, the Trust is an independent entity. The role does not therefore involve any engagement with Unilever communications or marketing activities.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: Wednesday 28 August 2024

INTERVIEW DATE: 11 September 2024

APPLY: https://unilever.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/Unilever_Experienced_Professionals/job/100VE/Communications-Officer_R-89312