The Strategic Communications Manager will join the team to focus on communications to support the delivery of RDG's Board Priorities. The successful candidate will work directly into the Head of Strategic Communications, as well as working closely with the wider communications team and the Director of Communications to devise and deliver communications strategies across our workstreams. The role will also lead communications colleagues on several programmes of work, ensuring key projects are completed on time and to the highest standards, while fostering team development and collaboration.
Responsibilities
* Produce and deliver high quality influential communications activity within the Communications department
* Help shape and deliver RDG's communications strategy in close collaboration with the Head of Strategic Communications
* Bring members of the communications team together to ensure work is delivered consistently and to a high standard
* Maintain a pipeline of proactive communications activities and campaigns, flagging potential opportunities for further activity
* Plan and deliver impactful multi‑channel communications campaigns that achieve set KPIs, staying within budget, timelines and resources
* Produce visual and video content to bring campaigns and activities to life, independently and with agency support
* Collaborate with RDG's members to shape communications activity, brief them on current priorities, and provide timely relevant materials
* Build and maintain effective relationships with industry and RDG colleagues to source and shape content supporting the overall communications plan and objectives
* Ensure agency partners receive consistent briefing on priorities and feedback on work
* Manage performance of agencies to deliver communications assets across all media channels
* Contribute to a high‑performing communications team that embraces diversity and inclusivity
* Support the Events Lead on the delivery of the events strategy, identifying opportunities and supporting agendas and briefings
Key Contacts
* Industry communications and marketing colleagues within RDG's membership (train operating companies, Network Rail and owning groups)
* Suppliers and agencies – develop strong working relationships that deliver results
* RDG staff and directors – enable cross‑organisation collaboration and productive flow of information
* External stakeholders – align industry plans and ensure flow of information between RDG and key partners such as DFTO, DFT, Great British Railways and Network Rail
Qualifications & Competencies
* Leadership – able to manage and deliver communications activity, either directly or through team members
* Project management – capable of delivering multiple projects simultaneously, on budget and to high quality
* Stakeholder engagement – work with multiple stakeholders across the industry, listening and devising effective communication strategies
* Strategic thinking – conduct corporate‑wide horizon scanning to achieve results and anticipate problems
* 5+ years of communications/marketing experience
* Campaign management – evidence of success in leading and implementing campaign plans that influence behaviours
* Content creation – skills in Canva and basic video production, working with agencies to produce engaging content that adheres to RDG brand guidelines
* Experience dealing directly with senior colleagues, suppliers and stakeholders to provide communications
Benefits
* 75% off rail travel for personal and family use, plus international rail discounts
* 30 days annual leave (plus buy/sell options and additional leave for key life events)
* Season ticket loan for commuting costs
* Enhanced family leave – 30 weeks full pay for maternity, adoption, surrogacy and shared parental leave
* Pension scheme – up to 11.58% employer contribution
* Private medical insurance (AXA PPP) including mental health and specialist care
* Discounted gym membership and access to wellbeing programmes
Career Development & Progression
You'll be part of a team driving innovation at a national scale, with the opportunity to influence long‑term ticketing strategy. This role provides real ownership, the chance to work with leading‑edge technologies and partners, and visibility at senior levels across the rail industry. You'll also gain wide exposure to transport and government stakeholders, opening up exciting development and progression opportunities within RDG.
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