Press and Communications Manager

Aston University; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 38,784 - 46,049; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in Birmingham seeks a Press and Communications Manager to lead communication strategies and engage with media. This role involves managing relationships with key stakeholders, producing content, and enhancing the university's profile within the academic community. Candidates should have experience in media relations and a background in journalism or public relations. A commitment to inclusive practices and flexibility in working conditions is encouraged.

Qualifications

• Experience in media relations and public relations.
• Background in journalism or related fields.
• Ability to work with complex subject matter, especially in engineering or science.

Responsibilities

• Lead communications for the School of Computer Science and Digital Technologies.
• Manage media relations and produce press releases.
• Create and distribute content across channels.

Skills

Media relations

Public relations

Building relationships

Crisis communication

Job description

Join to apply for the Press and Communications Manager role at Aston University

Base pay range

Press and Communications Manager

Marketing, Recruitment & Admissions

Location: Aston University, John Cadbury House

Salary: £38,784 to £46,049 per annum

Grade: Grade 08

Contract Type: Permanent

Basis: Full Time

Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Wednesday 07 January 2026

Interview Date: Wednesday 28 January 2026

Reference: 1274-25

Release Date: Tuesday 23 December 2025

Responsibilities

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced communications professional to join Aston University’s communications team, which forms part of the Marketing, Communications and Student Recruitment Department. The team’s work includes media relations, producing press releases, supporting research staff to provide expert commentary to journalists, and managing podcasts. The postholder will lead communications activity for the School of Computer Science and Digital Technologies and the School of Engineering and Innovation, as well as associated research institutes, including the Energy and Bioproducts Institute and the Sir Peter Rigby Institute of Digital Futures. They will build strong relationships to enhance the reach, credibility, and profile of these academic communities with key audiences. The postholder will report to the Head of Communications and support corporate communications activity. Working closely with academic colleagues, the postholder will identify news stories within the University and research, create, and distribute content across channels, including the website, media relations, and social media.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will have demonstrable experience in media relations, a background in journalism and/or public relations, and experience of working with complex subject matter, preferably within an engineering, digital, and/or science environment. They will also have experience of building productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders, working in a busy environment, and managing reputational issues and crisis communications. Experience of working within a research or Higher Education context is desirable but not essential. Experience on this role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. Please note, we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace.

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications

While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.

Flexible Working

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

Accessibility

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the recruitment team.