Associate Director of Communications and Public Relations

The University Of Wolverhampton; Wolverhampton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established higher education institution in Wolverhampton is seeking an experienced Associate Director of Communications and Public Relations. This pivotal role focuses on leading innovative digital content strategies and strengthening partnerships with external stakeholders to enhance the institution's reputation and student recruitment efforts. The ideal candidate will have strategic leadership qualities and proven experience in managing digital communication platforms.

Benefits

Competitive salaries

Standard Life Pension scheme

Gym memberships discounts

Generous Annual Leave

Flexible & Agile Working

Training and Development opportunities

Qualifications

• Strong leadership skills to drive communication strategies.
• Experience in managing digital content and channels effectively.
• Ability to develop partnerships with external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of digital content strategies.
• Enhance the University’s reputation and stakeholder engagement.
• Deliver cohesive communications aligned with institutional priorities.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Digital content strategy

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Degree in a relevant field

Tools

Digital communication platforms

Job description

The University of Wolverhampton is seeking to appoint an Associate Director of Communications and Public Relations who is able to lead the development and delivery of engaging, innovative, and data-driven digital content and communications across the University platforms and develop partnerships with external partners.

This role is central to enhancing the University’s brand, reputation, student recruitment, and stakeholder engagement by working across faculties and departments to deliver a cohesive digital and communications strategy aligned with institutional priorities.

You will support the mission and goals of the University’s Strategy 2035; Develop and implement an integrated and forward-thinking digital content and communications strategy. Oversee the planning, production, and optimisation of content across all digital platforms, including the University website, intranet, social media channels, and email marketing.

This role provides a unique platform to make a lasting impact — develop and sustain strong relationships with external stakeholders including media, partners, influencers, and the wider communications community. Ensure digital content is engaging, accessible, inclusive, and aligned with the University’s tone of voice, brand guidelines, and strategic objectives. Proactively manage, protect and enhance the University’s reputation through effective and impactful messaging.

We are looking for a strategic leader able to perform at a senior level across strategic communication channels within a university or equivalent executive structure.

Staff Benefits

You may be eligible to choose from a number of benefits during your appointment, subject to any rules applicable to the relevant benefit (as amended from time to time). Further details of these benefits are available on the intranet.

We believe employees should be recognised for their hard work and contribution to the University’s growth and success and offer an attractive range of competitive benefits to all staff:

Your Benefits:

• Competitive salaries
• Standard Life Pension scheme – with employer contribution of up to 12% to the University’s defined contribution scheme.
• Long Service Recognition - £200 gift voucher, certificate, and afternoon tea with Vice Chancellor for 25 & 40 years of service.
• Free Will Writing Service - Complimentary will drafting for employees and their partners.
• IT & Mobile Discounts - EE Perk (20% off for family & friends) & software discounts.

Supporting Your Health & Wellbeing

• Wellbeing and Mental Health Support - 24/7 access to EAP service, free counselling sessions, wellbeing support resources and Occupational Health Service.
• Gym memberships discounts – at our Walsall Campus and discounts at WV Active sites in Wolverhampton.
• Eyecare Support - Free eVoucher for eye tests and glasses contribution.
• Flu Vouchers - Free flu vaccinations for staff.
• Paycare Health Benefit Plan - Covers optical, dental, physiotherapy, and personal accident insurance.
• Chaplaincy & Prayer Rooms – Access to multi-faith chaplaincy services.

Valuing You:

• Generous Annual Leave (see table below)
• Flexible & Agile Working - Flexible and Hybrid working arrangements.
• Free On-site Parking - available across campuses
• Cycle Benefits Scheme - Save up to 42% on a bike & accessories via salary sacrifice.
• Employee Discounts - Savings on groceries, fashion, and entertainment.
• Travel Discounts - Up to 10% off holidays through Sodexo Circles.

Training and Development

• Staff Network and Inclusion - Access to support networks and events with our LGBTQ+, Global Majority, Disability, and Women’s networks.
• Library Access - Staff have access to books and resources at our onsite libraries.
• Staff Scholarship Scheme - Funding for part-time higher education, up to PhD level
• Leadership and Management Development - Access to training opportunities to support you with advancing in your career.