The Russell Group, which represents 24 leading universities in the UK, are seeking a Head of Communications. This is a permanent full-time post based in Central London.

The successful candidate will provide high-level strategic support to the Chief Executive in a political and policy-led environment, including:

• Working at a strategic level with senior colleagues at the Russell Group, as well as Heads of Communications at our member institutions
• Carrying out strategic planning with regard to communications at the organisation including general horizon scanning and forward planning activities to ensure knowledge systems were fit for purpose
• Monitoring developments in the media and the UK Parliament which impact on Russell Group universities, informing the Chief Executive as appropriate with the aim of enabling the Group to anticipate lines of enquiry and to prepare statements and news releases as appropriate
• Managing a small Communications team
• Increasing stakeholder and advocate engagement, including liaising with businesses and increasing communications with member organisations
• Promoting our highly successful brand internationally, speaking at public events, and delivering an increased/improved digital presence for the organisation, as well as taking overall responsibility for conference organisation

Candidates must be able to demonstrate the following knowledge, skills and experience:

• Applicants will have held the top position in a communications function, engaging directly with the organisational head on strategic issues, not just execution roles
• A solid foundation of working in multiple communications disciplines and effective practitioner skills would be an advantage
• Significant career experience in communications or an adjacent profession is essential
• A good understanding of the HE sector both nationally and internationally would be an advantage
• The successful candidate will be able to build relationships within the Russell Group and its member institutions, and externally. They will demonstrate emotional intelligence in their dealings with others
• They will be capable of evaluating complex arguments and taking account of different inputs, but will be able to take decisions in a timely manner

A Vacancy Description is available from: http://russellgroup.ac.uk/about/vacancies.