Senior Communications Manager in Canterbury)

New Appointments Group; Canterbury; Hybrid; GBP 38,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading charitable organization in Canterbury is seeking a Senior Communications Manager for a fixed term role until March 2026. The position entails developing and executing communication strategies, managing a team, and ensuring effective stakeholder engagement. Candidates must have a strong background in communications within the charity sector and possess excellent writing skills.

Qualifications

• Experience leading a communications function in a charity or non-profit.
• Proven track record in developing integrated communications campaigns.
• Excellent writing skills and ability to engage target audiences.

Responsibilities

• Deliver communications and engagement strategy, monitoring success.
• Manage a multi-skilled communications team and oversee effective PR.
• Develop compelling campaigns to reach and influence target audiences.

Skills

Communications Management

Campaign Development

Stakeholder Engagement

Writing Skills

Crisis Management

Job description

We are working with a charitable organisation in the Canterbury area who are looking for a Senior Communications Manager to be employed on a fixed term contract until 31st March 2026.

Offering a salary of £38,800-£42,800/annum (pro-rata), hybrid working, and a flexible working pattern of 22.5-30 hours per week. This is a great role for the right person.

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

1 Deliver the communications and engagement strategy monitoring success against key metrics.

2 Develop/coordinate compelling and creative communications campaigns to help us reach, engage and influence new and existing audiences.

3 Manage a multi-skilled communications team, supporting professional development and driving continuous improvement.

4 Oversee and drive effective PR for the charity across national, local and trade press, working with external partners.

5 Safeguard the charity's reputation through careful planning and crisis comms.

6 Coordinate and lead on the production of publications including annual reports.

7 Drive our internal communications to ensure our staff have a clear understanding of their role in delivering the charity's priorities and vision.

8 Manage relationships with external suppliers such as graphic designers, web developers, filmmakers and creative agencies, tracking project financials.

9 Work in collaboration with the Head of Fundraising and Fundraising Team to create content to support campaigns.

10 Work some unsocial hours (including weekends) to support communication and fundraising initiatives, activities and events.

Management Responsibilities:

1 Recruit, induct and develop high-performing staff.

2 Monitor/evaluate the performance of staff and line manage and carry out Performance & Development Reviews (PDR), identifying and meeting learning needs in line with relevant HR policies. Carry out 1-to-1 meetings with direct line reports every 4-6 weeks.

3 To participate constructively in relevant training and contribute to team relationships.

4 Ensure your teams are adhering to company policies and procedures, including HR, Finance, Communications and Fundraising.

Essential Requirements:

* Experience leading a communications function in a charity or non-profit org.

* Proven track record of developing integrated communications campaigns and content strategies across a wide range of channels.

* Experience in communications planning, prioritisation and evaluation.

* Experience developing a brand, in line with organisational objectives.

* Excellent writing skills and the ability to identify compelling stories that will inspire and engage target audiences.

* Experience of dealing with press enquiries and managing reputation and other risks.

* Experience of managing a range of senior stakeholders and their competing priorities.

Local candidates need only apply.

Please note this position is only suitable for candidates who are already able to live and work in the UK without restriction.

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