RunThrough Walton-On-Thames, England, United Kingdom
Head of PR & Communications
RunThrough Walton-On-Thames, England, United Kingdom
Salary range: Competitive basic salary + bonus scheme
Type of work : Events/Office-based/Remote working
Role Overview
The Head of PR & Communications will shape and lead the external and internal communications strategy for a fast-growing events company with a national (and increasingly international) footprint. You’ll be responsible for telling our story in a way that excites media, partners, participants, and employees—while safeguarding and enhancing the brand’s reputation. This role blends big-picture strategy with hands-on execution, ensuring our events, community, and culture are celebrated on every platform. As a senior leader in a dynamic environment, you’ll work closely with the CEO and department heads to maintain the position of the company as an industry leader in mass-participation events, growing our influence and deepening audience engagement.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Communications Leadership
* Develop and execute an integrated PR & communications strategy aligned with our ambitious growth goals.
* Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO, marketing department leads, and senior leadership on brand positioning, messaging, and reputational opportunities.
* Work with the team to deliver high-impact campaigns across media, influencers, social, and thought leadership—supporting key events, launches, and partnerships.
* Oversight of internal teams to manage event-related communications to ensure this is delivered in the most streamlined, exciting, and efficient manner.
Crisis & Reputation Management
* Lead crisis communications as the main point of contact with speed, sensitivity, and transparency protecting and maintaining the RunThrough brand and reputation.
* Develop and maintain a rapid-response playbook to all communications tailored to the live events sector.
* Manage the team to continually monitor sentiment, media, & social media coverage to anticipate risks and seize opportunities.
* Manage the Communications, Website, & Customer Service teams (including agencies and freelancers).
* Collaborate with marketing, partnerships, & operations to amplify event stories and milestones while maintaining the core RunThrough values and brand reputation.
* Attend events to interact with our community, integrate with the brand, and perform key roles within the media team.
Media Relations & Public Affairs
* Build and maintain relationships with lifestyle, sports, entertainment, and business media.
* Proactively pitch and secure coverage in top-tier, niche, and regional outlets.
* Act as spokesperson or prepare executives for interviews, panels, and press events.
* Secure speaking opportunities at industry conferences and events for executives.
Brand & Narrative Development
* Shape and evolve the company’s brand story to resonate with diverse audiences—runners, sponsors, partners, and industry stakeholders.
* Ensure a consistent tone of voice and messaging across all touchpoints, from event guides to website look & feel.
Internal Communications
* Work alongside HR and Senior Leadership to keep our 100+ employees informed, inspired, and connected through efficient and appropriate communication streams — especially during periods of rapid change and event season peaks.
* Work with the relevant internal teams to produce engaging internal newsletters, leadership updates, and announcements.
What We're Looking For
Required
* 8+ years in Communications, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
* Proven experience generating national and regional media coverage, ideally in events, sports, entertainment, or lifestyle industries.
* Exceptional writing and storytelling skills, with the ability to tailor messaging for different audiences.
* Deep understanding of media and social platform management relevant to live events.
* Background in crisis communications and real-time media response.
* Experience managing teams across multiple departments.
Preferred
* Experience in a fast-growing or high-profile events company.
* Familiarity with sponsorship, brand partnerships, and stakeholder communications.
* Free entry to races, and discounts for your friends & family
* Enhanced Parental Leave
* Access to wellbeing platform
* Flexible working arrangements - Hybrid Working, Flexible Hours
* Discounts available from our Partners
* Free RunThrough Kit and discount codes available
* Free membership to the RunThrough Run Club - a place where you can meet and train with other members of the community
* Regular team socials including group runs
* Bi-annual company socials & away days
* Opportunities to travel & work at events globally
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience and suitability for the role to careers@runthrough.co.uk.
RunThrough is an equal-opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Seniority level
* Executive
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Marketing, Public Relations, and Writing/Editing
Industries
* Events Services
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