External Communication Team Manager (10 Month Temporary Assignment)

Lidl; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 66,000 - 99,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading grocery retailer in London is seeking an experienced corporate communications leader to manage their strategic communications strategy. In this role, you will shape the corporate narrative and lead reputation management efforts while collaborating with various stakeholders. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in delivering impactful corporate communications in the retail sector, excellent media relations skills, and experience managing crisis communications. A hybrid working model is offered, along with various perks including substantial holiday and in-store discounts.

Benefits

35 days holiday

10% in-store discount

Enhanced family leave

Sabbatical

Pension scheme

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in corporate communications, preferably in retail.
• Strong ability to navigate high-pressure environments.
• First-class written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of the corporate communications strategy.
• Manage media relations and oversee the in-house press office.
• Provide counsel to business leaders on communications topics.

Skills

Corporate communications strategies

Media relations

Stakeholder management

Crisis communications

Content development

Strategic decision-making

Job description

Overview

£66,200* up to £99,000* per annum | 35 days' holiday (pro rata) | 10% in-store discount | Pension scheme

Everyone who works at Lidl brings something unique to the table - but we also have a whole lot in common. We're curious, collaborative, and ready to make a tangible impact on where we work.

Just like you.

This is an exciting opportunity for you to join as an experienced and passionate corporate communications leader, with a clear understanding of the food retail sector and the role it plays in the media, to join our vibrant and growing Corporate Affairs team on a 10 month FTC.

Working within a dynamic and fast-paced environment, you\'ll be responsible for driving forward Lidl\'s strategic corporate communications strategy, shaping the corporate narrative, and protecting Lidl\'s reputation across Great Britain.

You'll be someone that thrives under high-pressure situations, using perfectly honed problem-solving skills to navigate through often complex scenarios which can vary by the day. With a natural affinity for storytelling, you'll be able to spot opportunities at any turn and support your team, and agency, in bringing sector-leading ideas to life. You'll also be adept to working with multiple and varied stakeholders, with the ability to influence at the highest levels.

At Lidl, we offer a hybrid working model to give you the best of both worlds. Spend three days or more in our state-of-the-art office, where you can enjoy an on-site gym, restaurant, and more of the perks you deserve. And with up to two days at home, you\'ll find the work/life balance you need to thrive

What you\'ll do

• Lead the development and implementation of Lidl GB\'s corporate communications and reputation management strategy, including LinkedIn.
• Shape Lidl GB\'s corporate narrative and drive forward impactful projects and campaigns across multiple business areas, including Financial Results and Property Comms.
• Provide senior counsel to business leaders on corporate communications topics whilst collaborating closely with a vast array of stakeholders across the business, both at GB and international level.
• Lead issues and crisis communications management, providing high-level strategic guidance on evolving topics.
• Manage media relations and oversee busy inhouse press office, providing out of hours support as part of an on-call rota.
• Deliver media training and briefings to senior stakeholders to ensure full preparedness.
• Drive, develop and support the external communications team, fostering a culture that upholds the Lidl Values.
• Oversee external services to ensure best in class support, including corporate communications agency and monitoring services.
• Manage budgeting and planning.
• Deputise for Head of Corporate Affairs.

What you\'ll need

• Extensive experience developing and delivering corporate communications strategies for retailers or big brands.
• Substantial knowledge and understanding of the retail sector, the media landscape and the role of Lidl within it.
• Strong track record delivering high-profile communication projects, including financial results, with proven ability to secure impactful media coverage.
• A passion for issues management and media handling, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and make strategic, time-sensitive recommendations.
• A sharpened skill for synthesizing information across complex topics and delivering seamlessly back to the business.
• Strong experience working with senior stakeholders and leading executive-level communication.
• First-class written and verbal communication, with an innate ability to craft and deliver compelling messaging.
• An entrepreneurial mindset with critical thinking and strategic decision-making skills.
• Acute attention to detail and quality awareness.
• An adaptable and resilient approach to work, with the ability to navigate competing priorities.
• Experience as a line manager, leading teams and developing talent, with a \"team player\" attitude.

What you\'ll receive

• 35 days holiday (pro rata)
• 10% in-store discount
• Sabbatical
• Enhanced family leave
• Pension scheme
• Plus, more of the perks you deserve

We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. Join us to celebrate individuality and grow in a fair, respectful, and inclusive environment.

*Includes an additional 10% non-contractual London weighting

Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure our teams can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment

If you\'re ready to get stuck in, want to get more out of your career and make a real difference, find your place at Lidl and apply now.