Research Communications Manager

Closing date: 5 pm, 1^st September 2024

Purpose of the post

Reporting to the Head of External Affairs, this role is integral to demonstrating the value of health data research. You will work with the Communications team and the HDR UK research community to tell the story of data in health research and showcase the impact of HDR UK research programmes.

You will help deliver the institute’s communications strategy, working with colleagues to manage a range of tools and channels, including media relations, digital communications, social media, email, publications and events, to reach audiences across academia, NHS, industry, charities, as well as patients and the public. 

This is a unique and exciting opportunity for an experienced science communications professional to lead and deliver communications on cutting-edge research using health data and demonstrate the tangible difference it is making to people’s lives.

We are seeking an individual with a proven track record in research communications who has successfully worked on complex, scientific projects with multiple partners. The successful candidate will share our values, have strong influencing and collaboration skills and be comfortable with working at pace, moving quickly to prioritise resources where needed. The role manages a Content and Communications Officer.  

Responsibilities

• Horizon scan for opportunities to share research impact that demonstrates the value of health data research and the role of HDR UK in this sector.
• Build and maintain networks with researchers across the UK involved with HDR UK research programmes, identifying stories and creating accessible content for our target audiences.
• Establish effective relationships and work in partnership with communication, policy and programmme teams across the institute and partners.
• Working with PPIE colleagues to ensure our work across communications is shaped by patients and the public.
• Work with the Director of Communications and External Affairs, project manage a branding project for HDR UK with an external agency.
• Develop and deliver a new Impact Report for the institute to be launched at a stakeholder event in January.
• Manage media relations at HDR UK.
• Research, write and create engaging scientific content in various forms.
• Provide strategic communications support and advice for senior colleagues within HDR UK.
• Maintain media and communications contact lists in our media monitoring system and provide updates on the latest news and media coverage.
• Commission external suppliers to support delivery of HDR UK’s science communications and manage these relationships.
• Ensure projects are delivered within set budgets. 

Person Specification:

• Experience creating and delivering successful scientific communications strategies and plans.
• Ability to understand health research, process complex information and present targeted messages to different audiences.
• Experience in media relations or journalism in health, science, environment or related areas.
• Experience developing and managing traditional and innovative communications channels.
• Demonstrable experience of managing website content.
• Experience working under time pressure.
• Line management experience.
• Experience commissioning and managing suppliers and prioritising resources.
• Exceptional attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Confidence to handle high-profile media enquiries and to advise spokespeople.
• Strong analytical skills to evaluate impact and deliver continuous improvement.

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