Organisation name UCU Reference number HOC2 Salary £72,414pa (inclusive of London Allowance) Closing date Mon, 30 Mar 2026 - 10:00 Job location Carlow Street, London NW1 7LH Interview date 29 Apr 2026 Hours 35 Website https://www.ucu.org.uk Apply Now About this Role
About the role
The department at UCU is seeking a Head of Communications to join the team on a permanent, full time basis. In this exciting role, based in our Carlow Street, London office and reporting to the Head of Campaigns and Communications, your main duties will be:
1. to be responsible for the implementation of UCU's communication and media strategies and protocol, covering all relevant channels including social media
2. to be responsible for the line management of UCU's communications team, in accordance with UCU's employment policies and procedures
3. to ensure that the team's public affairs work addresses UCU's strategic objectives, in consultation with the head of department and other SMT members
4. to maintain awareness and knowledge of current issues and political trends in post compulsory education to develop and maintain relationships with appropriate media outlets and political contacts in Westminster and beyond.
The ideal candidate must be educated to GCSE level or equivalent (inc. maths & English) and would suit someone with experience of a similar working environment and/or understanding of working for a trade union or other not-for-profit organisation. Other duties to include:
5. experience of managing a team of staff
6. knowledge of current issues and political trends in post-16 education
7. extensive knowledge of individual UK media organisations and social media platforms
8. experience of developing and implementing effective communications strategies
9. experience of analysing media coverage and engagement and identifying new ways to improve coverage and engagement.