Director of Communications, Public Affairs and External Engagement

Sandwell Colleges, the largest college group in the West Midlands, is seeking a visionary Director of Communications, Public Affairs and External Engagement to lead strategic communications, build impactful partnerships, and amplify our reputation as a transformative education leader. As a senior leader, you'll drive collaboration, align priorities, and champion initiatives that put our mission and learners first. Working closely with our Head of Marketing and reporting to the CEO & Principal, you'll shape bold strategies that resonate across diverse audiences and ensure meaningful engagement. Key Responsibilities Shape and Deliver Strategy: Develop and implement a dynamic external engagement strategy that drives enrolment, strengthens stakeholder relationships, and enhances outcomes for learners. Build Partnerships: Oversee and innovate partnerships across key sectors, driving impactful collaborations and ensuring alignment with the Colleges' strategic goals. Lead Branding and Communications: Champion a cohesive brand strategy, guiding high-impact marketing campaigns, PR initiatives, and creative content that elevate the Colleges' profile and reputation. Inspire Collaboration: Foster a "One Team" culture by uniting internal and external stakeholders around shared goals, while supporting a learner-first ethos. Manage High-Impact Engagements: Lead key public affairs activities, including ministerial visits and external events, ensuring seamless execution and maximum impact. Drive Excellence Through Data: Monitor outcomes, analyse engagement strategies, and refine processes to ensure measurable success and continuous improvement. Skills, Knowledge and Expertise We're seeking a visionary leader with proven experience in delivering impactful marketing, communications, and PR strategies that engage diverse audiences. With expertise in brand management and digital marketing, you will drive innovative campaigns and leverage data to deliver results. Your exceptional communication skills will help build trust and strong relationships with stakeholders. As a dynamic team leader, you'll inspire collaboration and achieve success in fast-paced environments. This is your chance to combine creativity, strategy, and leadership to shape the future of education through bold ideas and meaningful connections.

• Very competitive salaries that have seen sector leading pay awards
• Excellent annual leave entitlements for all (35 annual leave days, as well as 8 bank holiday days, and additional time off over the Christmas period!)
• Dedication to career development and progression through dedicated development days, talent schemes and much more
• Recognition for great work through awards, events and celebration days
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Access to onsite facilities with discounted rates on services including Bliss Hair & Beauty Salon, dog grooming, car health checks
• Use of the College gym facilities as well as discounts at local gyms
• Generous pension schemes (23.68% employer contribution for teaching roles, 21.5% employer contribution for non-teaching roles)
• Access to a huge range of high street discounts
• Free will writing
• Travel discounts including local bus, tram, train, as well as cross country coach and trains
• Free flu vaccine
• Free confidential counselling service and wellness platforms