Communications Manager

BASIC (British American Security Information Council); United Kingdom; Remote; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected international security think tank in the UK is seeking an experienced Communications Manager. This role involves leading effective communication strategies to enhance the organization's brand identity and engagement with key audiences. The ideal candidate should possess over 8 years of experience in communications, have a related degree, and exceptional communication skills. This position offers flexible working arrangements, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Competitive salary with room for growth

30 days annual leave (pro rata)

Employer pension contributions of 5%

Flexible working arrangements

Remote working with optional co-working spaces

Opportunities for professional growth and development

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in a communications role.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing communication strategies.
• Knowledge of global security or related issues relevant to UK policy.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement communications strategies aligned with BASIC’s mission.
• Lead social media strategy to increase engagement.
• Oversee BASIC's branding and identity development.

Skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Proactive storytelling

Networking and stakeholder engagement

Crisis communications management

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Marketing, Education, Business, Fundraising

Tools

MailChimp/MailerLite

Job description

Communications Manager

Terms: 30 hours per week / 0.8 FTE, 4 days per week; two‑year contract with possibility for extension. Location: Remote working and quarterly in‑person team away days. Start Date: 5th January 2025. Line Manager: Executive Director. Please note that you must have the right to work in the UK. Closing Date: 14 December 2025.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your application via email to [e-mail] with “Communications Manager” in the subject line. Your application should include:

• CV
• A one‑page document (including images) highlighting a previous communications campaign you worked on. Please use the following format: clearly outline the a) purpose, b) key message(s), c) description, and d) outcome/impact of the campaign.

Please note that, due to the large number of applications we receive, we are not able to acknowledge receipt of all applications and only shortlisted candidates will be notified. If you have not heard from us within two weeks of the closing date, you have not been successful.

About BASIC

BASIC is an independent, non‑profit think tank working to safeguard humanity and Earth's ecosystem from nuclear risks and interconnected security threats, for generations to come. Our vision is for a global security consensus founded on multilateralism, the recognition of the indivisibility of security, adherence to Earth's planetary boundaries, and consideration of future generations. For nearly 40 years, we have built a global reputation for groundbreaking dialogue and incisive thought leadership to strengthen international peace and security. Our intellectually and culturally diverse team of 20 expert‑practitioners operates from London, Berlin, and Rome and is funded transparently without core state funding.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary with room for growth
• 30 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays and special closure days over December
• Employer pension contributions of 5 % (above the national minimum)
• Flexible working arrangements – set days (Wednesdays required) but flexible hours
• Remote working with optional use of co‑working spaces
• 1–2 all‑staff in‑person team away days per year, plus other in‑person opportunities
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Excellent team culture built on respect, openness, and inclusion

The Role

BASIC is seeking an experienced and strategic Communications Manager to lead and implement effective communication strategies that amplify our mission, enhance our brand identity, and strengthen engagement with key audiences. The ideal candidate will have exceptional written and verbal communication skills, a proactive approach to storytelling, and the ability to collaborate across the organisation to ensure clear, consistent, and impactful messaging. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Communications Manager will play a central role in shaping BASIC’s external presence and in developing brand identity across programmes.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy aligned with BASIC’s mission and objectives, including a strong link to impact.
• Lead the evolution of our social media strategy, ensuring increased engagement and impact.
• Develop and implement strategic online communication plans to enhance BASIC’s digital presence across all platforms.
• Oversee BASIC’s branding and identity development, ensuring consistency across programmes and platforms.
• Act as BASIC’s press officer, managing media engagement, journalistic contacts, and public relations.
• Plan and execute BASIC’s website redevelopment strategy, including better functionality for fundraising and overseeing all aspects of website content and management.
• Draft, edit, and manage organisational newsletters using MailChimp/MailerLite, ensuring clear, engaging, and audience‑focused content.
• Provide communications training to staff, fostering a culture of shared responsibility.
• Create promotional materials to advance BASIC’s initiatives.
• Strengthen INTERNAL and external communications, ensuring alignment with key stakeholders.
• Develop and execute tailored communications plans for specific programmes, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and effective audience engagement.
• Collaborate with programme teams to create and distribute engaging content that highlights programme achievements and key messages.
• Coordinate programme events (virtual and in‑person) in terms of communications outreach to increase visibility and showcase success stories.
• Support the creation of digital content (social media posts, website updates, videos, etc.) to promote programme activities and initiatives.
• Assist with publishing programme reports, including proofing and providing guidance for branding and imagery.
• Support programme fundraising communications activities.
• Monitor and analyse communications impact across programmes, using feedback and data to suggest improvements and ensure messages reach the right audiences.
• Help manage relationships with key stakeholders for each programme by ensuring ongoing engagement and support for programme objectives.
• Ensure consistent branding and messaging across all programme communications to maintain coherence with BASIC’s overall identity.

Person Specification

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Marketing, Education, Business, Fundraising).
• 8+ years of experience in a communications role.
• Knowledge of global security or related issues with linkage to UK policy.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing communication strategies aligned with organisational goals and objectives.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, compelling messages.
• Ability to generate innovative ideas and content that engage target audiences and enhance brand visibility.
• Strong networking and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience in monitoring and evaluating communication impact through media coverage, engagement metrics, and analytics, with the ability to evaluate effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
• Strong collaborative skills with the ability to work effectively across teams to ensure consistent messaging and brand representation.
• Attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy and quality in all communications materials.
• Experience in crisis communications, including drafting statements and managing sensitive issues.

Why Join BASIC?

This is an exciting opportunity to shape the communications strategy of a respected international security think tank. If you are a creative, strategic, and proactive communicator who thrives in a collaborative environment, we’d love to hear from you.