Head of Communications, Engagement and Impact

About Us

Diamond Light Source is the UK’s national synchrotron science facility. By accelerating electrons to near light-speed, Diamond generates brilliant beams of light from infra-red to X-rays which are used for academic and industry research and development across a range of scientific disciplines including structural biology, physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, earth and environmental sciences. 

Diamond is one of the most advanced scientific facilities in the world, and its pioneering capabilities and talented staff are helping to keep the UK at the forefront of scientific research. 

At Diamond we are in the early stages of a major upgrade of the facility, known as Diamond-II. Diamond-II will combine a new machine and new beamlines with a comprehensive series of upgrades to optics, detectors, sample environments, sample delivery capabilities and computing, which will ultimately generate an even more brilliant light source at a higher energy. 

About the Role

We now have an excellent opportunity for a talented Head of Communications, Engagement and Impact to provide overall strategic direction and leadership for Diamond’s corporate communications and engagement activities and to position Diamond as a world leader in these activities. 

You will work in consultation with Diamond’s CEO and Directors and manage the communications and engagement team to ensure effective and coordinated support to the organisation. 

Further responsibilities will include:

•          To lead, develop and deliver Diamond’s corporate communications and engagement strategy based on a 5 year outlook and annual activity plans.
•          To take responsibility for the management and development of staff within the team by providing support, learning and development opportunities. To lead, manage and nurture talent and evaluate the team.
•          To provide a medium to long-term vision and create a strategy for digital systems supporting communications and engagement activities ensuring brand consistency as well as current and future needs are met.
•          To lead / input into the development of strategic documents such as annual reports.
•          To lead on the relationship fostering and management with external stakeholders including media, funders, government departments, national laboratories and public at local, national and international levels.
•          To work in collaboration with senior staff to prioritise and design communications and engagement activities which are valuable to them, and activities that can inspire the next generation in STEM careers.
•          To formulate and disseminate metrics and key performance indicators related to the portfolio for the organisation to create meaningful information.
•          To strategically build the Company’s profile and reputation through the appropriate choice of digital communications tools. 

About You

You will hold an appropriate degree along with significant experience and proven success from a senior marketing and media relations environment, working on campaigns at a national level, with knowledge of UK and international media. 

You will have proven experience of managing a large team with the ability to lead and motivate. 

You will demonstrate an understanding of or background in a science environment. 

You will display excellent communication, interpersonal and networking skills, with a demonstrable track record of interacting with and influencing a range of internal and external contacts at all levels, and the ability to build effective collaborative relationships. You will have strong journalistic and writing skills and the ability to act as a spokesperson for the Company in media interviews. 

Benefits

Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support staff in achieving a positive work/life balance. This includes 26 days annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, 2 annual volunteering days and flexible working hours. We also offer an excellent defined benefit pension scheme. Staff also have access to a range of amenities on site including a nursery, cafes, a restaurant and sports and leisure facilities. A relocation allowance may also be available where applicable. 

We take an active approach to ensuring equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our activities at Diamond, with a dedicated commitment to ensuring we provide a fulfilling and enjoyable place to work, where all staff feel valued and recognised for their individual contribution. 

To Apply

Please use the online application process to apply and tell us why you believe you are suitable for this role. 

Diamond is a thriving international organisation, attracting a diverse range of talented individuals from around the world. Our staff currently comprises 44 nationalities and we welcome applications from everyone interested in joining us. 

The closing date for applications is 12th January.