Head of External Communications and Deputy Director (Newcastle, GB)

Opportunity Review: Deputy Director & Head of External Communications at Newcastle University

Newcastle University is presenting a compelling opportunity for an experienced public affairs professional to step into a pivotal leadership role as the Deputy Director & Head of External Communications. This position offers a chance to significantly influence policy and shape public perception for a world-class institution, making it a highly attractive prospect for ambitious career professionals.

Key Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Strategic Impact: This role is designed for individuals who are passionate about influencing policy and driving meaningful engagement with government, policymakers, and sector leaders. You will have the direct opportunity to shape how Newcastle University is perceived and interacts on regional, national, and global stages.
• Leadership and Team Development: You will lead a multidisciplinary team encompassing public affairs, media relations, and events. This is an excellent chance to hone your collaborative leadership skills, motivate a team, and foster a culture of excellence.
• Senior Advisory Role: As a trusted advisor to the Vice-Chancellor and President, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Engagement and Place, and the Executive Board, you will gain invaluable exposure to high-level decision-making and strategic direction within a leading university.
• Comprehensive Remuneration and Benefits: The salary range of £58,225 to £61,759 (with progression to £67,468) is competitive. Furthermore, Newcastle University offers excellent benefits, including a generous holiday package, attractive pension schemes, and a commitment to health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Reputation Building and Management: This role is central to championing the university's reputation. You will collaborate across departments, ensuring a coherent and proactive approach to external communications and positioning the university's contributions to research, education, and societal impact.
• Career Progression: The description highlights progression opportunities, indicating a commitment to developing talent within the organization.
• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Newcastle University demonstrates a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, actively encouraging applications from a wide range of backgrounds. This is evident in their Athena Swan and Race Equality Charter awards, and their status as a Disability Confident employer.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Senior-Level Experience Required: This is not an entry-level position. The successful candidate will need significant, demonstrable experience leading public affairs and policy engagement at a senior level, with a profound understanding of the UK policy landscape, particularly within higher education.
• Policy Influence and Network Building: A proven track record of influencing policy debates, building robust networks with government and sector stakeholders, and delivering measurable outcomes is crucial. Your ability to map stakeholders and maintain influential networks will be key.
• Strategic and Collaborative Approach: The role demands a strategic thinker with a highly collaborative leadership style. You will need to build and motivate diverse teams and work effectively across organisational boundaries.
• Exceptional Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication are paramount. You will be responsible for drafting high-quality briefings, policy submissions, and advocacy materials, and presenting complex information clearly and compellingly to various audiences, including senior executives.
• Resilience and Adaptability: The dynamic nature of university external relations requires resilience, composure under pressure, and the ability to manage competing priorities and tight deadlines effectively. A creative, energetic, and adaptable approach will be highly valued.
• Understanding of Higher Education Landscape: A deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the higher education sector is essential for success in this role.
• Commitment to Societal Benefit: Newcastle University's focus on collaboration for societal benefit and sustainability means candidates should be aligned with these values and be able to articulate how the university's work contributes to these goals.

This is a significant opportunity for a seasoned public affairs and communications leader to make a tangible impact on a prestigious university. If you possess the strategic vision, leadership acumen, and deep policy understanding required, this role offers a rewarding path for professional growth and influence.