Marketing and Communications Officer (Research)
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With a reputation for high impact, Marketing, Admissions, Recruitment and Communications (MARC) leads the University’s core student recruitment activity, enhancing the institution's reputation as a global leader in research, teaching and industry collaboration. This role sits within the Marketing function, supporting the University’s research priorities and working closely with academics to develop successful marketing plans.
Main Duties And Responsibilities
* Support marketing campaigns to raise awareness of the University’s research, taking a lead on planning, content creation, delivery, monitoring and evaluation.
* Develop and execute marketing and communications plans that align with and amplify the University's core research themes and institutional priorities.
* Act as an account manager to research centres, developing a thorough understanding of stakeholders, priorities, key messages and audiences and creating plans to help them reach their goals.
* Turn technical information into engaging copy for strategic audiences including funders, policymakers, industrial partners and peer academics.
* Recommend and create/commission marketing assets (e.g., brochures, videos, templates, photography, impact case studies) to achieve reputational goals.
* Use the University’s Content Management System to create, publish and manage high‑quality website content that aligns with best practice design, accessibility and user experience.
* Collaborate with branding, digital and media leads to maximise reach, engagement and impact.
* Manage multiple concurrent projects, ensuring tasks are delivered on time, on budget and to a high standard.
* Serve as a brand ambassador and custodian, ensuring accurate and consistent representation within brand guidelines.
* Attend events and other critical business activities throughout the year, including evenings and weekends as required.
* Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected.
Essential and Desirable Criteria
* A good degree in a relevant subject (e.g., PR/Communications/Journalism) or equivalent experience. (Stage(s) assessed at: Application)
* A strong understanding and proven experience working in a marketing or communications role, managing and delivering communications requirements both internally and externally. (Stage(s) assessed at: Application)
* Proven experience of leading on the planning, implementation and monitoring of marketing activity, including oversight of decisions relating to creative, channels and evaluation. (Stage(s) assessed at: Application/Interview)
* Demonstrable account management experience and the ability to build and maintain productive relationships with multiple internal stakeholders. (Stage(s) assessed at: Application/Interview)
* Excellent written and verbal communications skills with demonstrable experience of turning technical information into engaging content for various audiences and channels. (Stage(s) assessed at: Application/Interview)
* Experience in briefing and commissioning multimedia content and creative assets (e.g., photography, video, design) and working with suppliers. (Stage(s) assessed at: Application/Interview)
* Basic content production skills such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere and Adobe InDesign, as well as native social media and smartphone‑based content creation tools. (Stage(s) assessed at: Application/Interview)
* Excellent project management skills, prioritising work, managing a varied workload to deadlines and juggling multiple pieces of work. (Stage(s) assessed at: Application)
* Experience working with brand guidelines and applying them consistently to all marketing assets, supporting others to use the brand appropriately. (Stage(s) assessed at: Application/Interview)
* Experience of providing marketing and communications support for events. (Stage(s) assessed at: Application/Interview)
* Understanding of University research and research funding environments. (Stage(s) assessed at: Application/Interview)
* Enthusiastic and highly proactive, able to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative and a professional attitude. (Stage(s) assessed at: Application/Interview)
Further Information
Grade: 6
Salary: £32,080 - £36,636 with potential to progress to £39,906 per annum
Work arrangement: Full‑time
Line manager: Marketing & Communications Manager (Research)
Direct reports: Research Marketing & Comms Content Coordinator x1
Our website: https://sheffield.ac.uk/departments/professional-services/marketing-admissions-recruitment-communications-marc
Next Steps in the Recruitment Process
Selection is anticipated in the week commencing 8 December 2025, consisting of an interview, presentation and a request for a writing example. Candidates will be notified by the week commencing 1 December 2025. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments, contact a.m.roper@sheffield.ac.uk.
What We Offer
* A minimum of 38 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
* Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
* A generous pension scheme.
* A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
* A variety of staff networks for social interaction, peer support and personal development (e.g., Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
* Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond.
* A commitment to your development with access to learning and mentoring schemes integrated with the Professional Services Shared Skills Framework.
* A range of generous family‑friendly policies:
o paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
o support for those going through the menopause
o paid time off and support for fertility treatment
o and more
More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits.
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. Our University Vision outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.
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