Communications Manager (Maternity and Shared Parental Leave Cover)

University of Southampton; Eastleigh; Hybrid; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university is seeking a Communications Manager to deliver high-impact content and campaigns that showcase the value of research. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, experience in digital media, and the ability to engage diverse audiences. The role offers a hybrid working environment and supports personal development. Responsibilities include leading communications, managing projects, and collaborating with various stakeholders. Applicants are encouraged to apply early as the role may close if sufficient applications are received.

Benefits

Generous benefits package

Hybrid working

Commitment to personal development

Culture of wellbeing and support

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in communications, media, marketing, or journalism.
• Hands-on experience in delivering communications activities and campaigns.
• Strong ability to craft clear, engaging content for varied audiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead the creation and delivery of impactful communications.
• Plan and produce content across digital and traditional channels.
• Manage projects and develop dissemination strategies.

Skills

Communications expertise

Excellent written and verbal communication

Experience in digital and social media campaigns

Strong organisational skills

Collaborative approach

Job description

Are you a great story teller? Can you create high-quality, high-impact content? Would you like to use your talents to contribute to an organisation making a meaningful difference to people’s lives? If so we have the opportunity for you…….

We’re looking for a talented Communications Manager to join us on a fixed-term basis until 31 March 2027. In this role, you’ll use your creativity and expertise to craft compelling content and campaigns that showcase the impact of NIHR-funded research and engage audiences across the UK and globally.

Who are we?

The NIHR funds, enables and delivers world-leading health and social care research that improves people's health and wellbeing and promotes economic growth. We are also a major funder of applied health research in low and middle-income countries.

Further information can be found at: www.nihr.ac.uk. You are encouraged to review our operational priorities and watch this introductory video.

What will you be doing?

In this role, you’ll lead the creation and delivery of high-quality, impactful communications that showcase the value of NIHR-funded research and its benefits for patients and the public. You’ll plan and produce content across digital and traditional channels, tailoring messages for audiences including researchers, health and care professionals, and the wider public. Working closely with internal teams and external partners such as the Department of Health and Social Care, you’ll manage projects, develop dissemination strategies, and coordinate events to raise awareness of NIHR’s work in the UK and globally. You’ll also analyse research outputs, measure the effectiveness of campaigns, and contribute to shaping the NIHR’s corporate communications strategy. This is a dynamic role where you’ll influence stakeholders, support strategic priorities, and help drive engagement with world-leading health research.

Who are we looking for?

We’re looking for an experienced communications professional who can combine creativity with strategic thinking to deliver impactful campaigns and content. You’ll be confident working across multiple channels, engaging diverse audiences, and collaborating with stakeholders at all levels. Ideally, you will bring:

• Proven expertise in communications, media, marketing or journalism, supported by substantial practical experience and a strong theoretical understanding.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, engaging content for varied audiences and influence effectively.
• Hands‑on experience in delivering communications activities and campaigns, including digital and social media.
• Strong organisational skills, able to manage projects, prioritise tasks and meet tight deadlines.
• Collaborative approach, working proactively with colleagues and partners to achieve shared goals.

Why join us?

We understand that our people are our most valuable asset, to look after them we offer:

• A generous benefits package (see full details here)
• Hybrid working (typically 20% office-based)
• A culture of wellbeing and support- we’ve proudly been signatories of, and working to, the 6 standards of Mental Health at work commitment since 2019.
• A commitment to personal development, with opportunities for growth.
• The role is offered at 35 hours per week, but we will consider part‑time (minimum of 28 hours). Please indicate any preference on your application.

To learn more about working in our teams visit our website, or check out the video below:

Further information/an informal discussion, please contact our People Services team at [e-mail]

Please note: We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. Early application is strongly encouraged.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.

Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on [phone] or [e-mail] quoting the job number.