Major donor jobs

Head of Communications & Public Affairs

The Head of Communications & Public Affairs is a pivotal role at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) promoting our world-leading work in science, conservation, horticulture, and education.

Working as an active member of the Senior Leadership Team, this role will lead the organisation’s approach to strategic communications, seeking opportunities to engage external audiences, disseminate key messages, and raise RBGE’s profile on a national and international stage through press and media engagement.

With oversight of the communications and publishing functions, this role will also provide key support to the Regius Keeper and the Executive Team in shaping engagement and communication strategies with political stakeholders across the Scottish and UK governments.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact in the next phase of RBGE’s corporate strategy, strengthening key policy relationships and promoting RBGE’s expertise to deliver real impact in the fight against the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change.

Closing date:                            09:00am (BST) on Monday 20 July 2026        
First interview date:               30 July 2026
Second interview date: 5 August 2026

Recruitment information: 

Further details on the job description, person specification, and how to apply can be found in the candidate pack for the role on our website here: Head of Communications and Public Affairs Candidate Pack

This is an exciting opportunity for a new leader to guide the organisation through its next phase of development, building from a position of strength. The organisation is in the first year of a clear and ambitious three-year strategy, with a strong core team of staff and a healthy financial position.

The outgoing Executive Director was previously also the organisation’s Advocacy Director, and continued to deliver both functions within one role. For this reason the Board of Trustees is advertising the position in two configurations. Applicants are welcome to express an interest in either:

• Option A — Part-time Executive Director. A 0.6 FTE part-time post which is a leadership and management role only, and does not include delivering the advocacy activities of the organisation. These will be undertaken by a separate part-time Advocacy Director, who carries the advocacy responsibilities covered by the associated Advocacy Director job description.

• Option B — Full-time Executive Director. A single full-time post in which the successful candidate takes on both the part-time Executive Director role and the responsibilities of the part-time Advocacy Director role being advertised concurrently. The successful candidate must meet the person specification requirements of BOTH roles.

Help shape the future of education by building a vibrant community as our new Development and Alumni Relations Officer. You will connect former students, parents, and local groups to create life-changing opportunities. It’s a dynamic role where your people skills, organisation, and passion will make a lasting impact.

Why You'll Love This Role

• Make an Impact: Directly support the transformational power of education by engaging the community in the lives of our students.
• Never a Dull Moment: Enjoy a varied workload where "no two days are the same".
• Connect with People: Build meaningful rapport across a wide network of former students, staff, and parents.

What You'll Do

• Event Management: Coordinate everything from casual coffee mornings to formal reunions and careers events.
• Communications & Media: Source inspiring stories, draft newsletter copy, and utilize traditional and digital media.
• Relationship Building: Act as the primary bridge between the department and the local community.
• Administration & Database: Maintain accurate records and ensure smooth day-to-day departmental operations.

Who We Are Looking For

• A "real people person" who excels at making authentic connections and building rapport with others
• A highly organised problem-solver capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously and with a meticulous eye for detail
• A self-motivated person with a 'can do' attitude and a willingness to lend a hand, whatever the task
• Someone with a genuine passion for making a difference in the lives of others.