Head of Communications and Engagement

We’re here to create and harness knowledge, to deliver opportunity for everyone.

About the Role

We are excited to offer an opportunity to lead our Communications and Engagement function as part of the leadership team within the Department of Marketing, Communications, and Student Recruitment. In this role, you will cultivate a culture of collaboration and innovation, working alongside colleagues to further enhance the reputation and influence of Edge Hill University.

As Head of Communications and Engagement, you will manage the University's external reputation, strengthening its position within the sector and among external stakeholders while improving internal engagement through effective communication with staff and students. This high-visibility role involves leading media relations, public affairs, stakeholder management, alumni engagement, and corporate events. 

A responsive, creative, and influential leader, you will serve as the lead communications advisor to senior management on key issues such as public affairs and crisis management, ensuring the University's reputation is well-managed. In addition, you will oversee a highly professional and responsive communication and engagement function, coordinating with journalists and the media, plus a wide range of stakeholders on matters related to the University's reputation.

For informal enquiries about this vacancy, please contact Alison Kerwin, Director of Marketing, Communications, and Student Recruitment, at Alison.Kerwin@edgehill.ac.uk. 

About You

As Head of Communications and Engagement you will hold experience leading in the following areas:

Media relations and social media, identifying opportunities to promote the strengths, experts and expertise of Edge Hill furthering its brand and reputationPublic affairs strategy and activity, identifying where Edge Hill University have a voice and ensuring positive engagement and profile with government, policy makers and national/ regional stakeholders to support the university’s strategic aimsStudent and staff engagement specifically in relation to the NSS and Staff SurveysAlumni engagement strategy and activity, strengthening connections with our alumni and supporting them to be ambassadors for the university

At Edge Hill University we value the benefits a rich and diverse workforce brings to our community and therefore welcome applications from all sections of society.

Rewards & Benefits

A minimum of 48 days annual leave per annum (inclusive of bank holiday and University closure days)Access to a range of CPD to support your career developmentFree foreign language, and Sign Language evening classesEmployee assistance programme with access to free confidential counselling sessions, legal & financial advice, and health & wellbeing resources.Discounted membership to our sport and leisure facilitiesBeautiful award-winning campus working environmentStaff benefits scheme.

About Us

At Edge Hill University we believe in the life changing opportunities knowledge can create. Since 1885, we’ve been creating access to knowledge for those who may not have had the opportunity to before. 

Today, the effect we have has a far-reaching impact, not just for those who come to study here but for those who work, invest in, and live in our local communities too. So, if you’ve ever wondered if one person can make a difference, simply speak to our alumni, students, and award-winning staff.

Because for us education isn’t about how much you take in. It’s about what you take out into the world. 

Inspiring minds and changing futures since 1885, Edge Hill University is “A great success story… an institution that improves and impresses year after year” – Times Higher Education.

Closing Date: 05 Oct 2024

Department: Senior Manager

Salary: £57,793 to £65,320 per annum Permanent campus based role