Communication manager jobs in Birmingham, west midlands

• Would you like to make an impact by leading one of our fashion store teams that are community based, offer amazing choice and genuine sustainability?

  What does this role involve?

  As a Store Manager you will be accountable for your stores performance, maximising sales through physical and digital channels, and achieving store targets by leading an inclusive and diverse team that consistently demonstrate the BHF values .

  Each day is different in this varied, fast paced and hands on role.  Due to the volume of collections, deliveries and donations, it can be physically demanding at times, yet most rewarding as you play a part in helping to fund life saving research.

  What are we looking for?

  • Experience working in a customer facing role in retail, hospitality or service industry
  • Experience of leading, motivating and developing teams
  • Commercial awareness
  • Ability to achieve sales targets
  • Committed to achieving the highest retail standards at all times
  • Able to work under own initiative and take a proactive approach to changing business needs and objectives
  • Thrives working in a hands on, fast-paced environment
  • An understanding of budgets and P&L 

  Our stores are fast-paced and trade 7 days a week which means we require flexibility from our store teams to work weekends and bank holidays on a rota basis.

  What’s important to us?

  At the British Heart Foundation (BHF) we offer a huge range of new and used quality furniture, clothing, jewellery and more, available in store and online.

  Our vision is a world where everyone has a healthier heart for longer. We'll get there by funding cutting-edge research and innovation, which hold the keys to saving and improving more lives.

  In addition to raising funds for the BHF, we connect with our local communities and help reduce clothing and furniture waste across the UK. With over 700 stores we make a huge environmental impact by preventing around 70,000 tonnes of unwanted items going to landfill every year. We receive 1.6 million items donated to our home stores and 9.8 million bags of donated items and we will continue to build upon our reuse agenda in the years to come.

  Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy, Igniting Change, along with our internal EDI group, Kaleidoscope, and a growing number of employee network groups (our Affinity Groups), help us create an environment where all our colleagues and volunteers can succeed.

  Why join the BHF?

  We have a strong culture of internal progression and will actively support you to develop your career.

  Our generous staff benefits include:

  • 38 days annual leave (plus the option to buy and sell leave)
  • Holistic support leave of up to 10 additional days off each year
  • Enhanced family policies (maternity, paternity and adoption leave)
  • Wagestream - early access to your wages
  • 25% staff discount
  • Health cash plan (Dental, Optical, Therapies, etc)
  • Access to a 24/7 Virtual GP and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
  • Pension with employer contribution of up to 10%
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Discounts on gym memberships
  • Discounts with a wide range of retailers

  Ready to apply?

  To apply, please follow these simple steps:

  1. Click the “Apply” button below.
  2. You’ll be seamlessly redirected to the BHF Careers page.
  3. Complete the application form, submit your CV and upload your employment history.

  What do I need to know?

  DBS Check: Any offer of employment is subject to a satisfactory DBS check

  Inclusivity Matters: We’re committed to fairness and consistency. As part of this commitment, we use anonymous CV software during the application process

  Act Swiftly: Early applications are encouraged. We’ll be reviewing submissions throughout the advertising period and may close the advert early

  Sponsorship: Please note that we are unlikely to be able to sponsor applicants in respect of this role due to the role not meeting the minimum salary criteria to be eligible for sponsorship.

  Should you need any adjustments to the recruitment process, at either application or interview, please contact a member of the Recruitment team.

• Would you like to make an impact by leading one of our fashion store teams that are community based, offer amazing choice and genuine sustainability?

  What does this role involve?

  As a Store Manager you will be accountable for your stores performance, maximising sales through physical and digital channels, and achieving store targets by leading an inclusive and diverse team that consistently demonstrate the BHF values .

  Each day is different in this varied, fast paced and hands on role.  Due to the volume of collections, deliveries and donations, it can be physically demanding at times, yet most rewarding as you play a part in helping to fund life saving research.

  What are we looking for?

  • Experience working in a customer facing role in retail, hospitality or service industry
  • Experience of leading, motivating and developing teams
  • Commercial awareness
  • Ability to achieve sales targets
  • Committed to achieving the highest retail standards at all times
  • Able to work under own initiative and take a proactive approach to changing business needs and objectives
  • Thrives working in a hands on, fast-paced environment
  • An understanding of budgets and P&L 

  Our stores are fast-paced and trade 7 days a week which means we require flexibility from our store teams to work weekends and bank holidays on a rota basis.

  What’s important to us?

  At the British Heart Foundation (BHF) we offer a huge range of new and used quality furniture, clothing, jewellery and more, available in store and online.

  Our vision is a world where everyone has a healthier heart for longer. We'll get there by funding cutting-edge research and innovation, which hold the keys to saving and improving more lives.

  In addition to raising funds for the BHF, we connect with our local communities and help reduce clothing and furniture waste across the UK. With over 700 stores we make a huge environmental impact by preventing around 70,000 tonnes of unwanted items going to landfill every year. We receive 1.6 million items donated to our home stores and 9.8 million bags of donated items and we will continue to build upon our reuse agenda in the years to come.

  Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy, Igniting Change, along with our internal EDI group, Kaleidoscope, and a growing number of employee network groups (our Affinity Groups), help us create an environment where all our colleagues and volunteers can succeed.

  Why join the BHF?

  We have a strong culture of internal progression and will actively support you to develop your career.

  Our generous staff benefits include:

  • 38 days annual leave (plus the option to buy and sell leave)
  • Holistic support leave of up to 10 additional days off each year
  • Enhanced family policies (maternity, paternity and adoption leave)
  • Wagestream - early access to your wages
  • 25% staff discount
  • Health cash plan (Dental, Optical, Therapies, etc)
  • Access to a 24/7 Virtual GP and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
  • Pension with employer contribution of up to 10%
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Discounts on gym memberships
  • Discounts with a wide range of retailers

  Ready to apply?

  To apply, please follow these simple steps:

  1. Click the “Apply” button below.
  2. You’ll be seamlessly redirected to the BHF Careers page.
  3. Complete the application form, submit your CV and upload your employment history.

  What do I need to know?

  DBS Check: Any offer of employment is subject to a satisfactory DBS check

  Inclusivity Matters: We’re committed to fairness and consistency. As part of this commitment, we use anonymous CV software during the application process

  Act Swiftly: Early applications are encouraged. We’ll be reviewing submissions throughout the advertising period and may close the advert early

  Sponsorship: Please note that we are unlikely to be able to sponsor applicants in respect of this role due to the role not meeting the minimum salary criteria to be eligible for sponsorship.

  Should you need any adjustments to the recruitment process, at either application or interview, please contact a member of the Recruitment team.

Job Purpose 

Reporting directly to the CEO, you will lead and shape all aspects of the Foundation’s communications and brand strategy. 

This is a pivotal leadership role within the organisation. You will act as strategic adviser on reputation, messaging and positioning, ensuring that the Foundation’s voice reflects both the urgency of the fight against MND and the powerful legacy of Doddie Weir. 

You will steward one of Scotland’s most recognised charitable brands, protecting and evolving our public profile as we continue to invest in research, influence policy and support those living with MND. 

About My Name’5 Doddie Foundation 

Founded in 2017 following Doddie Weir’s diagnosis with motor neurone disease, the Foundation exists to fund research, raise awareness and support those affected by MND. 

Since inception, we have committed over £19.5 million to research and a further £2 million in grants to individuals living with MND. We have helped catalyse national campaigns, foster research collaborationand build a movement united by one shared ambition: a World Free of MND. 

We are at an exciting stage in our journey - growing in influence, impact and profile - and communications sits at the heart of that growth. 

Key Responsibilities 

You will lead the Communications function, working collaboratively across Fundraising, Research and Finance, and will be responsible for: 

Strategic Leadership 

• Develop and deliver a clear, integrated communications and brand strategy aligned to organisational goals. 

• Act as trusted adviser to the CEO on messaging, reputation and stakeholder positioning. 

• Ensure communications activity supports fundraising growth, research impact and policy engagement. 

• Provide regular insight and impact reporting to the CEO and Board. 

Brand & Reputation Management 

• Protect and evolve the Foundation’s brand, ensuring clarity, consistency and emotional resonance. 

• Develop internal brand guidance and champion high standards of communication across the organisation. 

• Oversee crisis communications planning and reputation risk mitigation. 

Media & External Engagement 

• Lead strategic media engagement, working closely with external PR support. 

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts and stakeholders. 

• Translate complex research and policy information into accessible, compelling narratives. 

Digital & Campaign Delivery 

• Oversee digital communications strategy including website, social media and supporter communications. 

• Ensure campaigns are creatively strong, audience-led and impact-driven. 

• Analyse performance data (including Google Analytics and other KPIs) to inform continuous improvement. 

Team & Supplier Leadership 

• Lead and develop the Communications team, maximising contribution and performance. 

• Manage agency and contractor relationships where required. 

• Foster a collaborative and high-performing culture across functions. 

Skills and Experience 

Essential 

• Significant experience developing and delivering strategic communications plans. 

• Strong media relations and reputation management expertise. 

• Experience leading teams and managing external agencies. 

• Strong organisational and project management capability. 

• Confidence operating at senior leadership level and advising executive stakeholders. 

• Ability to analyse performance metrics and demonstrate impact. 

Desirable 

• Experience in the charity, campaigning or advocacy sector. 

• Understanding of research communications. 

• Experience of working in a high-profile or emotionally resonant brand environment. 

• Digital content creation experience (video, graphic or website development). 

• Experience of campaign or product management. 

Personal Attributes 

We are looking for someone who brings: 

• Strategic judgement and credibility. 

• Emotional intelligence and integrity. 

• A strong appreciation for mission-led work. 

• The confidence to operate independently while building strong collaborative relationships. 

• A genuine commitment to the Foundation’s purpose and values. 

Why Join Us? 

This is more than a communications role. 

It is an opportunity to help shape the voice of a movement, to steward a powerful legacy, and to contribute meaningfully to the fight against MND. 

You will work directly with senior leadership, influence national conversations, and help ensure that Doddie’s vision continues to drive progress towards a World Free of MND. 

We are looking for someone who sees communications and development as a strategic act — someone who understands that brand, partnership, advocacy and fundraising are interwoven. Someone who is excited by the possibility of building a mixed economy that supports artistic risk, sector innovation and long-term civic contribution. 

We would like to hear from candidates with significant senior experience in communications, marketing and brand guardianship, ideally in the arts or creative industries; experience of driving engaging storytelling with creative flair and strategic purpose; and a proven track record of stakeholder engagement and external relations within a charity, cultural or non-profit organisation, developing and implementing strategies that grow visibility, engagement and income. 

You’ll also bring experience of working at a senior leadership level, leading teams in the delivery of high quality, impactful campaigns – along with excellent interpersonal and communication skills; a proven ability to successfully build and maintain stakeholder relationships; a positive, proactive, and solution-focused approach; and a genuine interest in the arts and culture. 

Location is either Birmingham or Nottingham (subject to base of postholder)

About the role

UnLtd is a vibrant, ambitious organisation at the heart of the UK’s social enterprise sector. As a key stakeholder and leading funder and supporter of social entrepreneurs, we continuously learn and adapt to better meet their needs and maximise their impact.

We are seeking an Events Manager to lead UnLtd’s event portfolio while our current Events Manager is on maternity leave. This person will be responsible for leading, coordinating and delivering the event plan in line with the organisational strategy. We are looking for a confident event specialist who will be able to support our frontline team to deliver a schedule of events for social entrepreneurs and UnLtd’s wider network.

You will be flexible in your approach and confident managing the whole process from planning through to delivery and event evaluation. The role is primarily hands-on and often involves working as part of, and at times leading, a cross-functional team. This role will suit you if you are patient and keep calm when things don’t go to plan, or when you don’t have all the answers you need. You’ll fall back on your meticulous organisation skills to ensure that UnLtd events are produced efficiently, fulfil their purpose, and are executed to the highest level.

This role may include some travel within the UK and evening work; however, we operate a TOIL system.

Join the Fire Fighters Charity as our Volunteering Manager and lead the development of a dynamic, inclusive volunteering programme that supports the wellbeing of the UK’s fire services community.

You’ll shape and deliver our national volunteering strategy, design an exceptional volunteer journey, build strong relationships, and ensure volunteers feel supported, valued and inspired. Working across teams, you’ll embed volunteering into our services, champion best practice and use insight to drive continuous improvement.

We’re looking for someone who:

· Has strong experience in volunteer management and volunteer strategy implementation

· Brings strategic thinking with hands‑on delivery

· Builds great relationships and influences at all levels

· Understands safeguarding, data protection and inclusive practice

· Is passionate about creating positive, impactful volunteer experiences

If you want a role with purpose and the chance to make a genuine difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now and help us grow a thriving volunteer community.

Are you passionate about making a real impact through safer, high‑quality environments? Do you want to use your estates, health & safety and compliance expertise to help drive meaningful change across a national charity? If so, Life Charity would love to hear from you.

We are looking for an experienced, proactive, and values‑driven Estates Manager to lead our Estates function and ensure our services, properties, and environments consistently meet the highest standards.

The Role:

As Estates Manager, you will be the driving force behind the quality, compliance and safety of Life’s estate. This role combines strategic oversight with hands‑on management of our property portfolio, ensuring all sites are safe, secure and operating to required standards.

You will:

• Lead Health & Safety and Premises/Facilities Management across the charity
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, regulatory requirements and internal standards
• Oversee risk management, audits, inspections and safety monitoring
• Manage the Estates Coordinator and foster a culture of continuous improvement
• Work with external partners to ensure checks are carried out (Gas, Fire Safety, Legionella, Asbestos, etc.)
• Manage property acquisition, disposal, leases, maintenance and contracts
• Develop and maintain estates policies and reporting systems
• Drive a positive, proactive health & safety culture across Life

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone wanting to lead meaningful change within an organisation that truly makes a difference.

What You’ll Bring:

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Highly organised, proactive, and able to take initiative
• A strong communicator with excellent written and verbal skills
• Confident managing estates compliance, risk, safety and property-related functions
• Experienced in managing a portfolio of properties (minimum 3 years)
• Able to lead others and support their development
• Skilled in identifying improvements and driving change

Qualifications/Experience:
✔ NEBOSH (or equivalent) in Occupational Health & Safety
✔ Evidence of continuous professional development
✔ Experience in data analysis or financial management (desirable)
✔ HND or equivalent in business/charity administration (desirable)

Information about the role: 

For further information, please see the attached job description. 

Please note, there is a requirement to drive for this role.

Salary: £38,000 per annum

Hours: 35 hours per week

Location: Home Based with travel to Leamington Spa and sites around the UK

Benefits:  

At Life we are passionate about providing our employees with a supportive and engaging environment. As well as ongoing development and training, we offer our:  

• Generous holiday allowance, starting at 25 days per year, plus 8 Bank Holidays (pro rata for part time hours) 
• Birthday Leave  (applicable after 1 years service)
• Additional annual leave for long term service  
• Company Pension Scheme  
• Signed member of the Menopause Workplace Pledge 

Safeguarding and Equality: 

Life is committed to protecting all staff, volunteers and service users from harm of any kind. Life expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment through our code of conduct.   

We are committed to ensuring diversity and equality within our organisation by encouraging applications from all backgrounds.  

All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks. Life takes its obligation to protect the rights of children and vulnerable people very seriously; therefore, the successful candidate for this post will be also subject to extensive background checking, including an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS) which is paid for by the Charity.  

You will play a key role in leading the day–to–day delivery of the service, providing effective management and leadership to a team of Early Help support workers and Early Help Development Workers. As the Service Manager, you will be required to work in partnership with the Operational Manager to support the strategic development of the integrated service offer for children and families living in the West of Birmingham. You will be required to work closely with a wide range of stakeholders and actively engage in local and district meetings and with Birmingham Childrens Trust. As the Service Manager, you will be working as a part of a management team and be accountable for the quality standards in the service, building and sustaining professional relationships with all stakeholders.You will play a key role in leading the day–to–day delivery of the service, providing effective management and leadership to a team of Early Help support workers and Early Help Development Workers. As the Service Manager, you will be required to work in partnership with the Operational Manager to support the strategic development of the integrated service offer for children and families living in the West of Birmingham. You will be required to work closely with a wide range of stakeholders and actively engage in local and district meetings and with Birmingham Childrens Trust. As the Service Manager, you will be working as a part of a management team and be accountable for the quality standards in the service, building and sustaining professional relationships with all stakeholders. 

This new role will take over responsibility for developing and managing all finance activities and reporting in this rapidly growing charity. You will have the opportunity to shape the role and the evolution of the charity as we grow, implementing financial processes and systems. As a key member of the Management Committee, you will work closely with the CEO, the Office Manager and the Honorary Treasurer.

Key tasks and responsibilities

• Ensure accurate and timely financial records of all income received and expenditure incurred
• Implement a new accounting system, as the charity’s growth takes it from excel bookkeeping to a new integrated finance and reporting system
• Liaise with the payroll bureau to ensure accurate and timely processing and payment of monthly salaries and related costs
•  Working with the FHL office in Bethlehem, maintain accurate records of grants paid
•  Monitor and maintain correct reporting of Restricted and Unrestricted income and expenditure
• Manage all UK banking activities and maintain oversight of the charity’s bank accounts in Bethlehem 
• Prepare, validate and submit regular Gift Aid claims to HMRC
• Prepare monthly management accounts for the Management Committee and Board of Trustees
• Working with the CEO and Treasurer, prepare annual budgets and periodic reforecasts as required
• Working closely with our external auditors, deliver an effective year end close and audit process and ensure submission of Annual Trustees’ Report and Financial Statements to the Charity Commission 
• Supervise the Office Finance Administrator
• Assist in the formulation and implementation of financial policies, procedures and controls
• Perform any other duties as reasonably required within this role to support the work of the charity

This job description is not exhaustive; it outlines the primary duties and is subject to change in consultation with the post holder. Projects and priorities may vary from time to time as required

About the role

We are looking for an experienced communications professional to drive and deliver our global communications strategy and maintain momentum across our target regions during a period of parental leave. This is an exciting role for someone who is passionate about improving global health and climate outcomes, enjoys activating a diverse range of stakeholders to achieve communications objectives and can support and motivate colleagues to deliver impactful work across different time zones.

Selection criteria

Essential:

• Experience designing and implementing successful communications strategies  that support the delivery of positive social, corporate or political change. We imagine the ideal candidate will have at least 8 years of experience, but we are open to consider candidates with less experience who possess the required skills. 

• A high level of strategic thinking and an understanding of how to leverage different campaigning approaches to achieve objectives, including community organising and knowledge brokering

• The ability to translate complex information into clear, compelling and nuanced messaging 

• A proven track record of crafting and landing compelling stories in high-impact media that advance campaign objectives

• Existing relationships with journalists in at least one relevant media area, such as news, health, sustainability or food

• Experience managing communications teams in a collaborative and effective way, and a willingness to support colleagues from other teams to develop relevant skills

• A general understanding of building decarbonisation and the energy transition

• Fluency in English

• The right to work in the country you live in (please note we are not able to offer sponsorship for a business visa or work permit at this time)

Desirable:

• Knowledge of Spanish and/or French

• A passion for food and cooking cultures

What we offer

• A role in which you can have a tangible impact on global health and climate outcomes

• The chance to join a supportive and inclusive team that combines their determination to improve health and climate outcomes with a rigorous and results-oriented approach to work

• A flexible and supportive work environment 

• A diverse network of influential stakeholders in multiple countries

• Competitive remuneration for the not-for-profit sector

Key responsibilities 

Strategy

• Deliver the existing global communications strategy, adapting where necessary in line with organisational priorities during the cover period, and develop associated implementation plans 

• Participate in broader campaign and organisational strategy development, contributing perspectives on the role of communications 

Media

• Build and maintain relationships with key media contacts

• Select, brief and liaise with media spokespeople 

• Develop key media messaging and oversee the development of pitch content 

• Lead on media liaison for both reactive and proactive opportunities

Knowledge brokering

• Coordinate the development and promotion of knowledge products, including case studies, research reports and toolkits

Management

• Hire and manage contractors and agencies as necessary for the implementation of the communications strategy

• Manage the Digital Communications Manager, and lead on the recruitment and management of any other communications professionals required as the GCC grows

Coordination

• Coordinate with the wider team and coalition stakeholders to oversee the implementation of the communications strategy and to continuously refine it to reflect new opportunities and challenges 

Reporting

• Oversee the global communications budget forecasting 

• Contribute to internal and external reporting of the GCC’s communications activities

How to apply

Your cover letter should be no longer than two pages and it should outline why you are interested in this role and how you fit the selection criteria.

Please indicate ‘Head of Communications (parental leave cover)’ in the subject line.

Applications close Monday 30th March 2026.   

We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our organisation. We strongly encourage candidates from historically disadvantaged or marginalised groups to apply.

Join Kaleidoscope Trust as our Communications and Events Officer and help bring global LGBTI+ advocacy to life.

Kaleidoscope Trust (KT) is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to advancing the rights of LGBTI+ people internationally. Founded in 2011, we aim to create a world where all LGBTI+ individuals are free, safe and equal.

We are looking for a Communications and Events Officer to help support powerful storytelling and strategic communications that amplify the voices and priorities of our partners around the world.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is organised, creative, and motivated by social justice to play a hands-on role across communications, events, and stakeholder engagement. You will work across a range of high-impact projects, including supporting the delivery of the Global LGBTI+ Rights Commission and key advocacy and partnership events.

If you’re keen to grow your skills while contributing to a collaborative and mission-driven team, we would love to hear from you. Download the full job description for full details and information on how to apply.

Salary: £35,150 per annum plus pension

Location: Remote (UK-based), with occasional travel

Closing date: Monday 16 March 2026, 23:59 (London time)

Interviews: Week commencing 16 March 2026

Annual leave: 33 days (plus eight bank holidays)

Benefits:

• enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave, and shared parental pay
• family-friendly policies
• 8% employer pension contribution (Aviva) 
• three x basic salary life assurance cover
• free health cashback plan (Medicash): employee cover plus up to four dependent children
• 24/7 virtual GP access (UK registered), plus access to Best Doctors
  free, confidential employee assistance programme (Medicash)
• access to a wellbeing app
• flexible working options including hybrid working, flexible working patterns such as part-time, compressed hours, and more*
• learning and development opportunities including bespoke training and access to LinkedIn Learning)
• commitment to employee health and wellbeing.
• we have a Menopause Friendly accreditation and are a Disability Confident employer

Join Dementia UK as Policy and Public Affairs Manager (Scotland) and play a pivotal role in shaping our influence as we deliver our 2025–30 strategy. This new role reflects a significant investment in expanding our Campaigns, Policy and Public Affairs function, strengthening our ability to drive change across all nations of the UK. You will lead our work to amplify Dementia UK’s voice in Scotland, ensuring that the experiences of people living with dementia, and the Admiral Nurses who support them, drive meaningful improvements in care and support.

You will spearhead our political and policy engagement in Scotland, building trusted relationships with MSPs, civil servants, political advisers and sector partners. Through sharp political insight and rigorous policy development, you will help shape our influencing priorities, identify strategic opportunities, and position Dementia UK as a credible and authoritative voice on dementia care within the Scottish policy landscape.

Working collaboratively with colleagues across policy, public affairs, campaigns, communications, clinical services and lived experience, you will develop and deliver a Scottish policy and public affairs strategy that aligns with our UK-wide approach. You will also represent Dementia UK externally as our primary political contact in Scotland, ensuring our perspectives are heard in key debates and decision‑making forums.

To thrive in this role, you will bring strong political instincts, deep knowledge of Scottish political institutions and policy processes, and a proven ability to build influential relationships with senior stakeholders. You will be a strategic thinker with the confidence to lead evidence-based policy development, assess risks and opportunities in a fast-moving environment, and drive forward activity that supports our long-term ambition to transform dementia care across the UK.

While this role is home-based, the postholder must be based in Scotland in order to regularly attend Holyrood and other stakeholder meetings.

We would love to hear from you! If you would like to find out more about the role, or have any queries, please get in touch via the email on our website.

Our culture

In addition to a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, we truly value our people. It’s important for us to create a working environment that looks after our workforce to support them in achieving their full potential. You will become part of a diverse and dedicated team who are supported to use and develop their skills. We recognise and value the key role you will play in delivering our strategic plans for the benefit of those living with dementia.

Our staff have a voice. Representatives from different roles and levels across the organisation positively contribute to and lead on our working groups around health and wellbeing, menopause, and equity, diversity and inclusion.

Dementia UK is proud to welcome everyone. We aim for a truly inclusive culture with talented, diverse teams that represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We celebrate difference and individuality and encourage everyone to join us and be their whole selves always.

Dementia UK is a Disability Confident Employer.

By applying to join Dementia UK, you acknowledge that in the event you are successful for the role, any offer and your ongoing employment will be conditional on you having or obtaining the right to work in the UK.

*Please note that any decision on flexible working is based on business needs 

ABOUT THE ROLE
We are looking for a creative and dynamic person with a proven track record in creating, delivering and managing digital content across social media platforms to develop, implement and manage strategies to grow our online presence and raise our profile.

You’ll have demonstrable experience across a wide range of social media platforms with the ability to craft engaging content to build a rapport with your audience while continuing to uphold our brand and professional values. You will be managing multiple accounts held by the charity.

You will have experience of using third party management tools to create, plan and schedule content, analysing reach and engagement, and using analytical tools to help make informed decisions about our digital marketing strategies. You will regularly report back to the management team feeding into our wider strategy discussions, making recommendations on future campaigns. 

You will be part of a wider communications team, working alongside the PR & Communications Manager, reporting to one of the trustees, fostering an organisation-wide approach working with all colleagues to ensure a planned, structured and collaborative approach to our communications and marketing planning.
As a small charity, flexibility is key to meet the needs of our shifting priorities and in between delivering and managing social media content – your primary focus –  you will additionally support wider marketing activities with creation of digital content to support charity advertising, support the development of our online (web) content and more general activities across the communications team. While there will be some level of existing experience, training will be provided for anything bespoke.

As part of the role, you will help our UK-based volunteers to develop local social media activities and support them as required. This may involve making recommendations in their approach, supporting content creation and upskilling them to gain confidence in using social media.

The role is remote and the successful applicant can work from a location of their choice, making optimum use of video conferencing and online collaboration tools to connect with the wider communications team.

Some UK travel within the role is expected with the charity reimbursing reasonable UK travel costs where agreed up front and on behalf of the charity. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Own and lead social media execution, from planning through to delivery across multiple accounts and multiple platforms
• Develop content and strategy for new (to IA) and new-to-market platforms
• Develop and deliver relevant content that drives awareness, engagement and conversation in line with IA’s aims and objectives
• Work closely with communications peers, wider staff and volunteers to deliver meaningful campaigns which aligns to IA’s purpose and support model
• Upholding brand and culture in everything you do
• Co-develop policies relating to your area of responsibility to ensure the management of online risks, suitability to content, data protection and safeguarding
• Develop partnerships with key individuals, ensuring strong social amplification and storytelling
• Oversee social content calendars, asset production and approvals aligned to wider communications strategies
• Review and manage marketing assets, ensuring brand consistency and compliant content
• Adapt quickly to shifting priorities and confidently jump into new projects in a fast-moving 
• environment
• Support with the development/management of wider digital content (web, digital advertising) 
• prioritising the needs of the charity
• Monitoring all socials, reacting to/moderating follower engagement and questions as part of our wider support model
• Supporting volunteers with local branch social media engagement, advising on use, upholding IA’s wider values and policies and monitoring content/engagement suggesting changes where relevant
• Management reporting on social media interactions, successes, areas for development, improvements and making recommendations to the Management team/Board

PERSON SPECIFICATION

ESSENTIAL

• Experience in developing and implementing social media strategies and content in a similar role for at least 12 months 
• A thorough working knowledge of a wide range of social media platforms
• Third-party applications to manage social media content across a range of platforms in addition to regular reporting and provision of management information to help the team make informed decisions to support the wider charity’s wider digital marketing strategy. 
• Development of engaging and creative digital content
• Experience in social media moderation
• Working with and maintaining effective stakeholder relationships including our trustees, staff, volunteers and external medical professionals
• Digital marketing experience
• Team player 
• Familiarity with UK data protection regulation 

DESIRABLE

• Working knowledge of the Wordpress platform
• Advertising opportunities across social media to expand reach including cost models and budgetary management
• Basic understanding of AI and the benefits of using it within the not-for-profit sector
• Experience of working on sensitive content for people who have experienced acute and chronic illness, been through life changing surgery or those who may be feeling vulnerable or exposed at a difficult time
• Experience across the not-for-profit sector
• Experience of A/B testing

SKILLS & QUALITIES

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Flexible, adaptable in approach, creative thinker
• Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

APPLICATION PROCESS

To apply, please submit:

1. Your CV (up to 3 pages) 
2. A covering letter outlining your suitability to the role (max 500 words)

Interviews will be two-stage for successful candidates. Initial interviews will be held via video conferencing (such as Zoom) discussing previous experience and role fit with successful candidates going through to a second round. This includes alignment to IA’s values. Please allow up to 1 hour for this stage.

Second round interviews are expected to be via video conference. Successful candidates will, at least one week in advance of the second round, be given a short brief and asked to provide sample content (or a clear idea of their marketing strategy) and share their ideas at least 48hrs before the interview. Candidates should be prepared to present their social media ideas at interview and answer any questions from the interview panel. 

Additionally second stage applicants will be asked to provide examples of their own previously created content, at least 48hrs prior to the interview. You should be comfortable sharing past content that you have created previously which will be treated with the strictest confidence. Please allow up to 1 hour for this stage.

Applications should be submitted via the advertising platform including your CV and covering letter. See attached role profile for recruitment timetable and further details about us/the role, including contact details for an informal chat, if required, before applying. Applicants are encouraged to ensure availability in line with the recruitment timetable in the attached job specification.

While IA recognises the value of AI technology in the current climate, IA reserves the right to ignore applications where we have reason to believe that they have been wholly produced using generative AI tools.

Please let us know if you require any additional support to attend or undertake an interview or if there is anything we should consider as part of the interview process

This is a home-based role, working Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Applications are welcome from candidates based outside Belfast, provided they are resident in Northern Ireland and able to commute to the Belfast office if required.

The External Affairs Manager plays a pivotal role in empowering people with sight loss to live the life they choose. This position leads the development of policy and campaigns within the country, aligning with Guide Dogs’ strategic objectives. Working collaboratively with the central policy, public affairs, and campaigns team, as well as the country leadership team, the role builds strategic partnerships with government bodies, local authorities, societies, and other key organisations. This ensures Guide Dogs remains informed and influential on all policy initiatives affecting the organisation and its stakeholders.

The post holder will be responsible for the day‑to‑day leadership, management and oversight of a team.

The post-holder is responsible for shaping policy positions, drafting responses to consultations from councils, combined authorities, and devolved governments, and driving impactful campaigns at a regional level. A key focus is increasing the involvement of blind and partially sighted people in advocacy and campaigning.

Additionally, the role leads the implementation of Guide Dogs’ regional marketing and communications strategy across the Devolved Nations. This includes raising brand awareness, engaging diverse audiences—service users, families, volunteers, donors, and the public—and delivering integrated communications plans that strengthen Guide Dogs’ presence and impact.

Key Responsibilities

Policy Development

• Lead the creation of country-specific policy and position papers, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy.
• Prepare responses to consultation papers from devolved administrations, local government, and regional bodies.
• Represent Guide Dogs on committees, working groups, and forums, staying informed on policy issues impacting the organisation and its service users.

Public Affairs

• Build and influence relationships with key stakeholders, including elected representatives and senior officials.
• Represent Guide Dogs at Government Scrutiny Committees and cross-party groups.
• Act as the primary liaison with local government and statutory agencies.

Campaigns & Influence

• Strategically lead and coordinate campaigns at a country level, ensuring alignment with devolved policy priorities.
• Develop and deliver campaigns addressing local needs of the visually impaired community.
• Foster partnerships within the Third Sector to build consensus and amplify Guide Dogs’ strategic aims. 

Leadership & People Management

• Provide strong leadership to local staff and volunteers, promoting best practice and knowledge-sharing.
• Oversee recruitment, performance management, and compliance with safeguarding policies.
• Ensure high levels of engagement through effective communication and leadership.

Financial Accountability

• Support fundraising initiatives and monitor operational budgets to ensure efficiency and compliance.

Diversity & Inclusion

• Champion Guide Dogs’ diversity agenda, ensuring services are inclusive and accessible.
• Work with external partners to create a more inclusive environment for people with sight loss.

How to apply 

Further details on the full role are attached below. When you are ready to apply, submit an online application form via this page.

If you would like to have an informal conversation about the role before applying, or require any accessibility support to apply, our friendly recruitment team is ready and waiting to help.

As part of your application ensure you provide evidence and examples of how your skills & experience meet the criteria as set out in the attached job description. You will also be asked to complete a few job-specific questions as part of this application process, so please be prepared to write your answers to these questions.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Guide Dogs welcomes applications from all sections of the community and actively encourages diversity to maximise achievements, creativity and good practice. We positively welcome and seek to ensure we achieve diversity in our workforce and that all job applicants and employees receive equal and fair treatment, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability or nationality. 

As a Disability Confident Employer, we are proud, whenever possible, to offer an interview to all candidates that meet our selection criteria, and who indicate they wish their application to be considered under our Disability Confident interview commitment. For more details, visit our careers site.

If you are successful you will need to provide evidence of your right to work in the UK via our digital ID checking supplier; in addition, we cannot offer visa sponsorship at this time.

Safeguarding

Guide Dogs is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people and adults at risk of harm with whom we work. We expect all our employees and volunteers to fully share this commitment.

At Guide Dogs, we believe in fair and equitable hiring practices. A criminal record will not automatically disqualify an applicant from consideration for a position. Each case will be evaluated individually, taking into account the nature of the offense, its relevance to the role, and the time that has passed since the incident. We encourage all candidates to disclose relevant information, and we assure you that it will be handled confidentially and fairly.

Guide Dogs follow Safer Recruitment practices to ensure we are safeguarding the vulnerable people we work with. As part of this, we require a full work history with any gaps accounted for & a minimum of 2 professional referee details fully covering the past 5 years. If you are applying for a disclosure role, please note that you will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and sign up to the DBS update service.

For high volumes of applications, we reserve the right to close adverts earlier than advertised.