Strategic Head of Communications & Engagement - Trust-wide

Star Academies; Guide; Hybrid; GBP 77,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salaries and pension

Generous holiday entitlements

Healthcare cash plans

Job summary

Star Academies is seeking an experienced Head of Communications and Engagement to lead communications, engagement, brand and marketing across the Trust. Working with senior leaders, you will shape how Star tells its story, communicate priorities and strengthen its reputation with staff, pupils, parents, communities and partners.

You will have a track record in communications within a large organisation, with good judgement handling sensitive or high‑profile issues.

Qualifications

• Degree-level qualification or equivalent senior‑level experience in comms/marketing/pr/journalism.
• Experience developing integrated communications and marketing strategies.
• Experience in media relations and reputation management.
• Experience in brand, marketing, digital and stakeholder engagement.
• Excellent written, verbal and editorial skills.
• Creative, collaborative and results-focused with strategic and hands-on ability.
• Full commitment to our mission, vision and values.

Responsibilities

• Lead communications, engagement, brand and marketing across the Trust.
• Provide strategic communications advice to senior leaders.
• Shape how Star tells its story and communicates priorities.
• Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team across corporate and internal comms, media, brand, digital.
• Ensure communications activity is coordinated, timely and effective.
• Support life chances of young people through strong communications.

Skills

Degree or senior experience

Integrated communications

Media relations

Brand and marketing

Editorial skills

Strategic thinking

Team leadership

Education

Degree qualification

Job description

Star Academies is seeking an experienced Head of Communications and Engagement to lead communications, engagement, brand and marketing across the Trust. Working with senior leaders, you will shape how Star tells its story, communicate priorities and strengthen its reputation with staff, pupils, parents, communities and partners.

You will have a track record in communications within a large organisation, with good judgement handling sensitive or high‑profile issues.