Head of Communications

Sodexo; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 62,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hospitality service provider is seeking a Head of Communications in Manchester to lead communication strategies that enhance its brand and support business growth. The ideal candidate will have experience in PR and communications, strong project management skills, and a proven track record in securing media coverage. This role offers a competitive salary of £62,000 plus benefits, including a car allowance and bonuses.

Benefits

20+ Sodexo benefits

Gym discount

24/7 employee assistance programme

Qualifications

• Experience in the Public Relations/Communications industry.
• Professional communications generalist able to manage a comprehensive communication program.
• Strong skills in digital communication platforms.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a strategic communications plan.
• Lead media relations strategy to enhance external profile.
• Monitor and assess the effectiveness of communication strategies.

Skills

Public Relations

Communication

Project Management

Creativity

Attention to Detail

Education

Graduate calibre

Tools

Digital Communication Tools

Job description

Head of Communications

We are looking for a Head of Communications to join the regional Brand & Communications team. This role leads the internal and external communications planning and delivery to support the growth ambitions of Sodexo Live! UK&I and to be seen as an employer of choice. It shapes stories that inspire others and ensures our messaging is impactful, engaging and reaches the right audiences.

As Head of Communications, you will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive communication strategies that drive growth, strengthen our brand, and position Sodexo Live! as a trusted partner in the live events and hospitality sector.

Supporting Sodexo Live you can be part of something greater. You belong in a team where you can act with purpose and thrive in your own way.

For more information on Sodexo Careers please visit Sodexo Careers.

Main Responsibilities

Strategic Communication Planning

• Develop and execute a strategic communications plan to support the company's objectives, ensuring alignment with organisational goals.
• Collaborate with the CEO and executive leadership team to articulate key messages and position on relevant industry issues.

Media Relations

• Lead the Sodexo Live! media relations strategy, taking full ownership of its external media profile across the UK & Ireland, with alignment and input from the UK&I PR & Campaigns Director and Senior Press & PR Manager.
• Build and sustain high-impact relationships with tier‑one trade, business and national journalists to secure positive, agenda‑setting coverage that enhances the reputation of Sodexo Live! as a market leader. Plus, build relationships with industry influencers and stakeholders.

External Communications

• Develop and deliver an external communications plan aligned with the PR & Campaigns team to amplify the brand across the region, including identifying the right industry events, speaking opportunities etc and assist with the creation of content – speeches, case studies, client testimonials etc.
• Ensure award submissions are streamlined and aligned with wider UK&I Region submissions.

Brand Deployment

• Work closely with the senior B2B marketing manager and Marketing Director to elevate the company's brand presence through strategic storytelling and content creation via channels such as the website and social media.
• Work collaboratively with Marketing on the creation and enhancement of Sodexo Live! UK&I client and prospect newsletters.

Crisis Communication

• Develop and oversee crisis communication protocols and strategies to address potential issues and mitigate reputational risks.
• Provide clear and accurate information during a crisis or sensitive situation.

Performance Measurement

• Monitor and assess the effectiveness of communication strategies and initiatives, using metrics and analytics to drive continuous improvement.
• Provide regular reports to the CEO and executive leadership team on communication performance and opportunities for growth.
• Use data‑driven insights to refine plans and demonstrate communications' contribution to commercial outcomes.

The Ideal Candidate

• Experience in the Public Relations/Communications industry.
• Graduate calibre with strong experience working in a large matrix organisation.
• Professional communications generalist able to deliver a 360 external/internal communications programme within a complex environment.
• Excellent communicator, both verbally and in writing with the ability and gravitas to operate at all levels of the business.
• Proven track record of securing high‑impact coverage in top‑tier national and trade media.
• A self‑starter – able to work to tight deadlines and manage projects independently.
• Strong skills and experience in managing simultaneous projects – able to balance the hard and soft skills of managing projects so that plans are well‑laid and executed and that stakeholders are fully engaged and communicated with.
• Good organisational skills and excellent attention to detail. Thinks ahead and pre‑empts possible setbacks and obstacles.
• Creativity and desire for continuous improvement.
• Knowledge of digital communication tools and platforms (e.g., social media, email marketing, website management).
• Experienced at setting the right KPIs for communications and demonstrating personal and collective impact.

Package Descriptionh3>

£62,000 + Bonus + Car allowance.

Interviews to be held in January

Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater.

You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way.

In addition, we offer 20+ Sodexo benefits such as Sodexo retirement plan, discounts to over 1,900 brands to shop online, Gym discount to maintain a healthy lifestyle, a confidential 24/7 employee assistance programme providing independent support to overcome whenever life has its obstacles including emotional support, legal and financial advice.

For further details regarding our Sodexo benefits please see attached.

Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!

Sodexo reserves the right to close this advertisement early if we are in receipt of a high volume of applications.

About Sodexo Live!

At Sodexo Live!, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On‑Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer. We are a forces friendly employer. We welcome and encourage applications from people with a diverse variety of experiences, backgrounds, and identities. We encourage our employees to get involved with our Employee Networks such as Pride, Sodexo Parents & Carers, Sodexo Disability, Ability network, So Together, Generations and Origins.

Sodexo Disability, Ability network, So Together, Generations and Origins.

We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations.

Click here to read more about what we do to promote an inclusive culture.