Strategic Communications Lead – Higher Education

Heriot-Watt University; Kilmarnock; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

33 days annual leave

9 buildings closed days

Job summary

Heriot‑Watt University in Scotland seeks a Strategic Communications Manager to lead integrated communications that support Strategy 2035 and corporate reputation. You will translate complex priorities into clear messages and coordinate activity across MRAC to align with branding and digital initiatives.

The role provides strategic advice to senior leaders, develops messaging frameworks, and leads plans for major programmes, organisational change and executive communications.

Qualifications

• Degree, professional qualification or equivalent relevant experience.
• Significant experience of developing and delivering strategic communications.
• Experience leading integrated communications strategies across audiences and channels.
• Experience advising senior leaders on communications strategy and stakeholder engagement.
• Experience managing communications relating to organisational change or high‑profile initiatives.
• Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of integrated communications strategies.
• Develop messaging frameworks and key narratives for institutional priorities.
• Provide strategic communications advice to senior leaders.
• Lead executive communications and speeches.
• Coordinate annual strategic communications planning and cross‑team collaboration.
• Evaluate communications performance using evidence and insight.

Skills

Strategic communications

Stakeholder engagement

Written and verbal communications

Planning and project management

Leadership and influencing

Education

Degree or professional qualification

Tools

Digital communications

Job description

Heriot‑Watt University in Scotland seeks a Strategic Communications Manager to lead integrated communications that support Strategy 2035 and corporate reputation. You will translate complex priorities into clear messages and coordinate activity across MRAC to align with branding and digital initiatives.

The role provides strategic advice to senior leaders, develops messaging frameworks, and leads plans for major programmes, organisational change and executive communications.