External Communications Manager

External Communications Manager

Overview
The Talent Set is pleased to present an exciting opportunity for an External Communications Manager on a 6-month fixed-term contract for a London university. The successful candidate will lead strategic external communications, enhancing organisational reputation through media relations, content creation, and stakeholder engagement, supporting the organisation’s broader objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and assess communications and media strategies aligned with institutional goals.
• Manage the organisation’s written brand voice across all external channels, ensuring consistency.
• Create high-quality content including publications, press releases, blogs, and social media updates.
• Support marketing efforts by producing course and organisational information for website and print materials.
• Draft speeches and scripts for senior leadership; assist with crisis communications plans and messaging, including managing crisis situations to mitigate reputational risks.
• Build and sustain relationships with media professionals, journalists, and external stakeholders to secure positive coverage and build an active press desk.
• Support and develop the External Communications Officer, providing guidance and mentorship.
• Collaborate with marketing, digital, and content teams to ensure message alignment.
• Evaluate communication activities’ effectiveness using data analytics to inform future strategies.
• Represent the organisation at open days and recruitment events domestically and internationally.

Person Specification

• Proven experience managing external communications within a strategic context.
• Skilled in content creation, including press releases, speeches, and digital content.
• Excellent relationship-building skills with media contacts and external stakeholders.
• Experience building and maintaining a press desk, managing media relations proactively.
• Strong project management and organisational skills; ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, inclusion, and organisational values.
• Ability to lead, support, and develop colleagues in a collaborative environment.
• Adaptability and professionalism with a strategic mindset.
• Previous experience working in a higher education setting 

What’s on Offer
Salary: £53,744
Length: 6 month contract with an immediate start 
Hybrid Working: 2 days a week in their London office with 3 days working from home 

How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity
The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, or age. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.