Director of External Affairs

Inspired Selection; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking an experienced Director of External Affairs. This role will oversee key functions including communications, public affairs, and partnerships within the British Society for Immunology. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in leading teams and influencing policy, along with a passion for advancing science. The position primarily offers remote work and the opportunity to shape the future of immunology in the UK.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Supportive work culture

Opportunity to influence public policy

Qualifications

• Proven experience in public affairs and science communications.
• Strong background in leading teams and managing relationships.
• Ability to influence policy and engage with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Senior Management Team and drive organizational influence.
• Shape national conversations and oversee strategic communications.
• Build partnerships and develop diversified income streams.

Skills

Leadership

Public affairs

Stakeholder management

Science communications

Strategic insight

Job description

Are you ready to help shape the future of science and health? Inspired Search, the executive search division of Inspired, is delighted to be exclusively partnering with the British Society for Immunology (BSI), who carry the mission to support the scientific community in advancing discovery and improving health outcomes. BSI brings together members from academia, industry and healthcare to champion research excellence, clinical practice and public engagement in the UK and across the world.

They are now seeking an exceptional Director of External Affairs to take their work to the next level, driving the organisation's influence, profile, and impact. Reporting to the CEO and joining the Senior Management Team, this high‑profile leadership role has strategic oversight of communications, public affairs, policy, partnerships, clinical engagement, career and workforce development, and patient and public involvement, ensuring these functions operate in a joined‑up way to deliver their ambitious new five‑year strategy.

BSI is currently participating in a four‑day working week pilot on full‑time salaries, and while regular travel to London is required, the role is predominantly remote, with a strong commitment to flexible, inclusive, and supportive working.

In this role, you will lead a strong and established team, fostering a positive, high‑performing culture where people feel empowered to do their best work. You will act as a trusted ambassador for immunology, building and maintaining influential relationships across government, academia, industry and the NHS. You will shape national conversations, influence policy, oversee flagship programmes, and lead strategic communications and public engagement, while also developing high‑value partnerships and diversified income streams to deliver greater value for members and secure long‑term impact for the Society and the wider immunology community.

We're looking for an experienced leader of people and strategy, with a strong background in public affairs, policy, external relations and science communications. You'll bring strategic insight, exceptional stakeholder management skills and a genuine passion for advancing science and public understanding. If you're ambitious, collaborative and ready to help redefine the future of immunology we’d love to hear from you.

Inspired Search & Selection are a publishing recruitment specialist who operate an Equal Opportunities policy. We treat all employees and job applicants fairly and equally regardless of their sex, sexual orientation, marital status, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion, age, disability or union membership status.