The Vacancy
Do you love creating digital content? Can you help us tell our story?
The work undertaken by The James Hutton Group is right at the top of the global agenda when it comes to tackling problems such as the impact of climate change and threats to food and water security.
The Communications Teams delivers across the remits of media, marketing, digital, events, public affairs, corporate and internal communications, all designed to support and promote the work of the James Hutton Group.
Critical to successful delivery of this work is ensuring that the Hutton presents itself as a dynamic, modern organisation, and using digital communications is essential to communicating effectively with its many stakeholders.
This post is focused on the Hutton’s digital output through multi-platforms to maximise the organisation’s impact and reputation. It is a critical role in a collaborative, mission-driven work environment which offers opportunities for professional development and creativity as well as flexible working arrangements and a supportive team culture.
This post can be based at either Invergowrie, Dundee or Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen and can be combined with hybrid (home) working if desired.
Previous experience is essential and can involve either a suitable qualification combined with practical experience or longer-term practical experience.
More information on the detail of the post and the post holder can be found below in the job description.
Main purpose of job
We are seeking a creative and strategic digital content and storytelling manager to lead the development and delivery of compelling digital content across our platforms. This role is pivotal in shaping how we communicate our science, impact, and values to a diverse range of stakeholders.
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Key responsibilities
Content creation and storytelling
* Plan and implement standout engaging multimedia content (written, video, audio, visual) that brings our research and impact stories to life across multi-platforms.
* Collaborate pro-actively with scientists and stakeholders to translate complex ideas into accessible narratives.
* Lead storytelling campaigns aligned with strategic priorities and audience needs.
* Champion innovative digital storytelling using data-driven narratives, infographics, and interactive visualisations to increase public and policy engagement.
* Monitor digital trends and recommend new devices, tools or techniques for creative research communication including podcasts, mobile-first platforms, livestreams, AR/VR, and other emerging formats.
* Build and maintain a central repository of digital content assets, supporting branding consistency and institutional memory.
Channel management and growth
* Manage and optimise existing digital channels (website, social media, newsletters).
* Analyse performance metrics and audience insights to inform content strategy.
* Explore and pilot new platforms and formats to expand reach and engagement.
* Assess and report on digital campaign ROI using advanced analytics to drive evidence-based strategy and continuous improvement.
* Liaise with researchers to co-create content that builds their digital skills and increases institutional digital literacy.
Strategic planning and collaboration
* Work closely with Communications, Philanthropy Office and Digital Transformation Teams and colleagues in scientific and professional services departments to align messaging and campaigns.
* Contribute to brand development and tone of voice guidelines.
* Provide training to others in use of digital channels including social media.
* Liaise with IT and technical colleagues to integrate new digital tools and workflows for communications, ensuring security, privacy, and archiving best practices.
Essential skills and experience
* Strong writing, editing, and visual communication skills.
* Advanced knowledge of using digital tools (e.g. CMS, social media management, video editing, analytics).
* Knowledge of using AI within digital communications to support reach and amplify messages
* Strategic mindset with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
* Experience growing and managing digital communities and channels.
* Experience working with accessibility and inclusive communication standards, ensuring content for diverse audiences.
* Experience managing digital content through all phases: concept, development, publication, analytics, and archiving.
* Practical experience evaluating and implementing new communication technologies (e.g., generative AI, SEO, workflow automation).
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Desirable
* Familiarity with science communication or environmental/agricultural topics.
* Experience with podcasting, animation, or interactive media.
* Knowledge of accessibility and inclusive communication practices.
* Experience developing content to support open access, open science, and wider digital public engagement.
* Understanding of digital privacy and intellectual property as they relate to research content sharing.
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Additional notes and requirements
* This post can be done as a hybrid post and can be based at either Invergowrie or Craigiebuckler but the postholder will be expected to spend at least two days day a week on site and may on occasion need to travel to other locations as required.
* Willingness to ‘get stuck in’ to whatever appropriate task may need doing in the context of Communications activities.
* This role does not attract a certificate of sponsorship.
Interview date
Interviews will take place online on Monday, 24 November 2025.
Our Commitment to Equality and Diversity
We will not consider the use of 3rd party recruitment agencies for the sourcing of candidates for this position.
The James Hutton Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
The James Hutton Institute is a: Stonewall Diversity Champion; Athena SWAN Silver Status Holder; Disability Confident Committed Employer and a Living Wage Employer.
The James Hutton Institute is Happy to Talk Flexible Working.