External affair director jobs in edinburgh
Director of Communications – EMMS International (Remote, Scotland-based)
EMMS International is creating a new Director of Communications role following an organisational review, separating fundraising and communications into two Director posts. Reporting to and working closely with the CEO, the Director of Communications will lead all internal and external communications, raise the charity’s profile and influence, and provide strong strategic support to income-generating functions, especially fundraising. You will develop and deliver a multi-layered communications and external affairs strategy, lead a small Communications Team (including a new Head of Communications), and play a key role on the Executive Leadership Team.
Key responsibilities include:
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Designing and implementing an organisational communications and external affairs strategy
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Leading EMMS’ rebrand in partnership with an external agency
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Growing and engaging core and new audiences across multiple channels
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Supporting fundraising colleagues with compelling campaigns
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Managing a small team, setting objectives/KPIs and overseeing performance and development
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Budget planning and financial oversight for the Communications function
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Representing EMMS at senior level, including Board meetings and sector bodies such as SIDA
What they’re looking for:
An experienced communications leader with a strong track record in strategic comms, audience growth, media engagement and campaign delivery. You’ll bring creative thinking, excellent written and verbal skills, experience managing and developing teams, and confidence operating at both strategic and hands-on levels. Familiarity with the Scottish charity, political and social landscape is essential, as is the ability to communicate effectively with both Christian and secular audiences in line with EMMS’ faith-based origins and healthcare mission. Degree-level education or equivalent professional experience is required.
Terms and benefits:
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Salary: £63,313 – £70,347 (depending on experience), with annual inflationary rise
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Remote role with monthly meetings in central Edinburgh (more frequent in first three months)
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25–30 days annual leave depending on length of service + 10 public holidays
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8% employer pension contribution (with salary sacrifice)
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Salary sacrifice scheme for electric vehicle lease
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Flexible working, travel expenses to office, access to Edinburgh office, some international travel
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Life assurance (three times annual salary) and Aviva Digi-Care app
Application:
Apply by CV and covering letter (each up to 2 pages) by Monday 12 January 2026. Interviews will be held in Edinburgh, with two stages. You must live in Scotland and have the right to work in the UK.