Interim Director Of Communications

Interim Director of Communications

Location:

St James's, London (Hybrid Working)

Rate: £67.36 per hour

Contract:

Interim Assignment until November 2026

We are seeking an exceptional communications leader for a high-profile international organisation based in central London. This is a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic Communications Division, shape media strategy at the highest level, and act as the organisation's principal spokesperson.

Reporting directly to the Secretary-General, the successful candidate will provide strategic communications counsel to senior leadership, oversee a broad range of media and public affairs activity, and lead an experienced communications team in delivering impactful engagement across international audiences.

This role requires a highly credible communications professional with extensive experience operating within complex political, governmental, international or public sector environments.

• Lead the development, implementation and evaluation of the organisation's external communications and media strategy.
• Serve as the official spokesperson for the organisation and its Secretary-General.
• Provide expert strategic advice on media relations, reputation management and public affairs.
• Manage media responses to sensitive, high-profile and politically complex issues.
• Lead and develop a Communications Division of approximately 20 communications professionals.
• Oversee all press office functions, including media enquiries, press releases, speeches, statements and opinion pieces.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior journalists, editors, broadcasters and media stakeholders.
• Drive excellence in digital communications, social media engagement and online content strategy.
• Support senior leaders with media briefings, public appearances and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Manage departmental budgets, resources and performance to ensure delivery of strategic objectives.
• Represent the organisation externally, including attendance at international events and conferences as required.

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• A postgraduate qualification and/or significant professional experience in communications, media, public relations, journalism or international relations.
• Significant senior communications leadership experience, including substantial international media experience.
• Experience advising senior political leaders, government ministers, executives or equivalent high-profile stakeholders.
• A background in journalism with experience working for a national or major media outlet.
• Demonstrable expertise in crisis communications and reputation management at a senior level.
• Proven experience managing complex, politically sensitive media issues.
• Strong relationships across national and international media networks.
• Exceptional writing skills, with the ability to produce and place high-quality opinion pieces, statements and media content at pace.
• Outstanding presentation and spokesperson capabilities.
• Experience leading large press office or communications functions.
• Strong understanding of digital communications, social media and audience engagement strategies.
• A collaborative leadership style with experience developing high-performing teams.

Opportunity to work in a highly visible international leadership role with significant influence and impact.