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Strategic Communications Lead

ArtsJobs

Wales

On-site

GBP 40,000 - 60,000

Full time

Today
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Job summary

A leading performing arts organization is seeking a Strategic Communications Lead based in Wales. This role involves driving communications strategies, managing media relations, and engaging with political stakeholders. Ideal candidates should have significant experience in communications or public affairs, particularly in the arts. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential. This role is full-time and offers the chance to play a pivotal role in the organization's artistic mission.

Qualifications

  • Strong background in communications or public affairs, ideally within the arts.
  • Experience in government relations and political engagement.
  • Proven ability to design and deliver strategic communications plans.
  • Strong media relations skills with established press contacts.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement effective communications strategies aligning with WNO's vision.
  • Manage media relations and oversee quality of press materials.
  • Lead on crisis communications and reputation management.
  • Build relationships with arts councils and cultural organizations.
  • Oversee internal communications and support collaborative culture.

Skills

Communications background
Government relations experience
Media relations
Crisis communications
Organisational skills
Interpersonal skills
Project management
Political awareness
Job description
Job Summary

We are seeking a Strategic Communications Lead to drive WNO’s communications strategy and play a pivotal role in shaping how we engage with audiences, stakeholders, and the wider public.

Job Description

WNO shares the power of live opera and classical music with audiences and communities across Wales and England. We are a creative and inspiring place to work and recognise that our colleagues play a vital role in advancing our strategic priorities to deliver on our ambitions.

This role is central to communicating our artistic vision, strengthening our brand, and ensuring that our story is told with clarity, creativity, and impact.

The Strategic Communications Lead drives the Company's communications strategy. The role is responsible for: strategic communications planning and delivery, media relations, stakeholder management (inc. political relations and public affairs), and internal communications.

The Lead works closely with the Executive and Senior Leadership Team, as well as other colleagues, to oversee the communications strategy that engages WNO's target audiences, communicates the Company's artistic vision, and builds brand reputation.

Job Requirements

What will you need to have?

A strong background in communications or public affairs, ideally within the arts, culture, or public sector.

Experience in government relations and political engagement, with strong political awareness and networks.

Proven ability to design and deliver strategic communications plans.

A solid track record in media relations, with established press contacts.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills (Welsh language highly desirable).

Experience in crisis communications and working under pressure.

Strong organisational and project management skills, with adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

Interpersonal and diplomatic skills to build effective relationships at all levels.

Experience in internal communications, change management, and segmented campaigns (desirable).

Good understanding of the arts sector, preferably opera, musicals, or theatre (desirable).

Job Responsibilities

What will be required of you?

Develop and implement effective communications strategies that align with WNO's vision and objectives.

Manage media relations, proactively developing new opportunities, and oversee the quality of all press materials.

Lead on crisis communications, reputation management, and public affairs, including engagement with political stakeholders in Wales and beyond.

Build and maintain relationships with arts councils, cultural organisations, industry bodies, donors, sponsors, and corporate partners.

Oversee internal communications to keep colleagues informed and engaged, supporting an open and collaborative culture.

Line manage the Communications Manager and oversee the communications budget.

Represent WNO at external meetings, forums, and sector events, advocating for the Company and the arts more broadly.

Monitor communications performance, ensuring consistent brand application across all materials.

Job Overview
  • Job Title: Strategic Communications Lead
  • Hours: Full time
  • Artform: Performing arts
  • Role: Marketing & Digital
  • Contract: Contract
How to Apply

Apply via the WNO website.

About Welsh National Opera

Welsh National Opera exists to bring the power, drama and raw emotion of opera to as wide an audience as possible in performances marked by an uncompromising quest for artistic quality. As a national company with international status, we sit at the heart of music-making in Wales and play a valuable role in the communities we serve in England.

Welsh National Opera is based in Cardiff Bay. Cardiff combines history, sporting excitement, ultra-modern development, eclectic culture and activities.

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