Head of Communications & Brand Strategy

Star Academies; Lancashire; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Star Central, based at our head office in Blackburn, Lancashire, leads communications, engagement, brand and marketing across the Star Trust. You will work with senior leaders to shape Star’s story and reputation with staff, pupils, parents, communities and partners.

We’re seeking a strategic, collaborative leader with experience in a large, multi-site organisation, capable of managing sensitive issues and coordinating communications activity.

Qualifications

• Degree level qualification or equivalent senior-level experience in communications, marketing, PR or journalism.
• Proven record delivering integrated communications and marketing strategies.
• Experience in media relations, reputation management and high-profile communications.
• Experience in brand, marketing, digital and stakeholder engagement activity.
• Excellent written, verbal and editorial skills.
• Creative, collaborative and results-focused with strategic and hands-on approach.
• Commitment to our mission, vision and values.

Responsibilities

• Lead communications, engagement, brand and marketing across the Trust.
• Provide strategic communications advice to senior leaders.
• Shape how Star tells its story and strengthen reputation with stakeholders.
• Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team across corporate and internal communications, media/PR, brand and digital.
• Ensure communications activity is coordinated, timely and effective.
• Collaborate across schools and communities.

Skills

Strategic communications

Stakeholder engagement

Media relations

Brand and marketing

Editorial writing

Team leadership

Crisis communications

Education

Degree-level qualification or equivalent senior-level experience in communications/PR

Job description

Star Central, based at our head office in Blackburn, Lancashire, leads communications, engagement, brand and marketing across the Star Trust. You will work with senior leaders to shape Star’s story and reputation with staff, pupils, parents, communities and partners.

We’re seeking a strategic, collaborative leader with experience in a large, multi-site organisation, capable of managing sensitive issues and coordinating communications activity.