Strategic External Communications & Engagement Lead

Confidential; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Confidential university in London seeks an interim Head of External Affairs & Engagement Operations to lead external affairs, engagement, and strategic communications. The role covers campaign operations, stakeholder engagement, supplier management and delivery planning with a focus on impact.

The position requires experience in complex organisations, a data-led mindset and the ability to influence senior leaders. Hybrid working, interim contract until end of 2026, with an immediate start.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in external affairs, communications, engagement, marketing or PR.
• Strong campaign, programme and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience operating in complex, matrix organisations.
• A data-led, audience-focused mindset.
• The confidence to influence senior leaders and drive change.

Responsibilities

• Lead campaign operations and stakeholder engagement initiatives.
• Oversee supplier management and delivery planning with measurable impact.
• Modernise processes and embed best practices across the engagement function.
• Ensure programmes are delivered on time, on budget and with quality.

Skills

External affairs leadership

Campaign management

Stakeholder management

Data-driven mindset

Influence senior leaders

Job description

Confidential university in London seeks an interim Head of External Affairs & Engagement Operations to lead external affairs, engagement, and strategic communications. The role covers campaign operations, stakeholder engagement, supplier management and delivery planning with a focus on impact.

The position requires experience in complex organisations, a data-led mindset and the ability to influence senior leaders. Hybrid working, interim contract until end of 2026, with an immediate start.