Head of Corporate Communications

Manchester United; Trafford; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent sports organization in Trafford seeks a Head of Corporate Communications to lead their communication strategies and manage their reputation globally. This role involves overseeing media relations, crisis management, and team leadership. The ideal candidate should have experience in corporate communications and a strong ability to navigate complex media environments. This position offers various employee rewards to support well-being and professional development.

Benefits

Annual incentive scheme

Wellness support

Exclusive discounts

Gym facilities

Enhanced family leave benefits

Career development opportunities

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• Experience in corporate communication or public relations roles.
• Proven track record in strategic communications.
• Ability to manage complex media situations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute corporate communications strategies.
• Lead and mentor the communications team.
• Manage media relations and crisis communications.

Skills

Strategic communication

Media relations

Crisis management

Team leadership

Job description

At Manchester United, we believe that excellence on the pitch starts with excellence off the pitch. Our team thrives in a high-performance environment, united by a shared passion for success. We aim to elevate the standard of performance through collaboration and continuous growth, creating a space where everyone can contribute their best to our common goals.

We work together at our iconic Manchester United offices, enabling connection and innovation as we look ahead to what we can achieve as a global football club. We are excited to bring in passionate people who share our vision and drive for success.

The Role:

As Head of Corporate Communications, you will lead the Corporate Communications function, shaping and protecting Manchester United's reputation on a global stage. You will oversee the development and delivery of proactive and reactive communications strategies that uphold the Club's values, strengthen stakeholder trust, and reinforce our leadership position in sport and business. Reporting to and collaborating closely with the Director of Communications, you will handle complex media issues, serve as a senior spokesperson for the Club, and provide strategic counsel to senior leadership across all corporate and commercial areas of the club.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Develop and execute a robust corporate communications strategy that aligns with the Club's vision and global reputation.
2. Lead, mentor, and inspire junior colleagues, and collaborate with senior leaders, to deliver impactful communications campaigns and proactive media engagement.
3. Lead communications planning and delivery for strategic infrastructure projects, including the Club's new stadium development plans, ensuring clear and consistent messaging to all stakeholders.
4. Oversee day-to-day communications with key commercial partners, ensuring alignment with the Club's brand and reputation objectives.
5. Act as a trusted advisor to the Director of Communications and senior executives on all corporate reputation matters.
6. Oversee the Club's response to complex, high-profile media issues and crisis situations.
7. Build and strengthen relationships with national and international media across sport, business, and general news outlets.
8. Serve as a senior spokesperson where appropriate and prepare other spokespeople through high-level media training and briefing.
9. Monitor and analyse global media coverage, providing insightful reporting and recommendations to inform strategic decisions.
10. Safeguard the consistency and accuracy of the Club's key messages across all channels.
11. Lead the planning and delivery of major corporate announcements, press conferences, and stakeholder engagements.
12. Ensure the Club's media contact database and monitoring tools are managed to the highest standard.

At Manchester United, we recognise that our people are at the heart of our success. That's why we offer a range of rewards designed to support your professional and personal well-being:

• Annual incentive scheme
• Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+ Workplace
• Exclusive Discounts through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners
• Gym Facilities in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities
• Enhanced family Leave Benefits and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
• Enhanced Career Development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs
• A Supportive Work Environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth

Our Commitment to You:

At Manchester United, we believe that a diverse and inclusive environment makes us stronger. We are committed to building a team where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of our recruitment strategy, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Ready to Join Us?

If this sounds like the perfect role for you, please submit your application by Friday 22nd August.

Manchester United is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and as part of this commitment, all candidates will undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check and reference checks.

If you need any adjustments to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, please feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to discuss them with you.

It is unlawful to employ a person in a UK-based job who does not have permission to live and work in the UK. You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to you before applying for any of our roles.