Senior Communications Lead — Strategic Campaigns & Media

Historic Environment Scotland; City of Edinburgh; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A national heritage organization in Scotland is seeking a Senior Communications Officer to manage external communications. The successful candidate will deliver effective communication projects, develop strategic plans, and manage media relationships. Essential skills include strong written communication, the ability to lead campaigns, and experience with media inquiries. The role offers a starting salary of £40,158, a 9-month fixed-term contract, and opportunities for hybrid working.

Benefits

Civil Service Pension scheme

25 days annual leave pro-rata

Reimbursement for professional subscriptions

Support for further education

Flexible working hours

Free entry to properties

Qualifications

• Submit a cover letter addressing essential and desirable criteria with real-life examples.
• Demonstrate how you meet the criteria through work, home, education, or volunteer experience.

Responsibilities

• Act as senior day-to-day contact for allocated business areas/projects.
• Develop and deliver strategic communications plans and activities.
• Create and manage proactive media content aligned to corporate narrative.
• Handle reactive media enquiries and provide senior counsel on reputational issues.
• Research and write press releases, features, and briefing materials.
• Organise press briefings, photo calls, and media events.
• Advise on social media content and messaging for key issues.
• Participate in creative campaign planning and cross-directorate coordination.
• Operate as first point of contact for out-of-hours communications support.
• Line manage Communications Officers and deputise for the Communications Manager.

Skills

Recent experience in a communications environment

Proven ability to lead and deliver successful communications campaigns

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure

Experience in handling media enquiries and managing reputational issues

Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail

Strategic understanding of stakeholder media and online communications

Job description

A national heritage organization in Scotland is seeking a Senior Communications Officer to manage external communications. The successful candidate will deliver effective communication projects, develop strategic plans, and manage media relationships. Essential skills include strong written communication, the ability to lead campaigns, and experience with media inquiries. The role offers a starting salary of £40,158, a 9-month fixed-term contract, and opportunities for hybrid working.