Archived: Communications & Policy Manager

Are you experienced in PR? Do you have an active interest in the arts sector, the political landscape and public affairs? Do you have experience of working on policy documents, government consultations and award applications? Are you a people-person with the ability to tell compelling stories? Are you looking for a role that offers you the flexibility to work from home and/or the office in a creative, interesting and supportive environment?

We are looking for an experienced Communications and Policy Manager to work with the Head of Media and Communications and wider teams, to devise and deliver an extensive external and internal communications strategy. This newly developed role will build awareness of the breadth and impact of the RSC’s work amongst key regional and national stakeholders; this activity will grow the Company’s reputation and support income growth, leading to increased engagement and advocacy.

Reporting to the Head of Media and Communications, your responsibilities will include:

• Devising team strategy, creative workplans and the delivery of all Media and Communications activities
• Line managing two direct reports, creating and supportive work environment which develops their skills and confidence
• Identifying areas of policy development and strategising to influence policy making or potential areas for successful campaigning
• Devising relevant communications plans that support the RSC’s strategy and messages
• Driving the RSC’s awards strategy
• Monitoring Parliamentary and in Government business, keeping abreast of the latest developments
• Responding to debates, providing sector commentary
• Linking with key organisations, SOLT, UK Theatre, Creative England and What’s Next to build alliances
• Preparing briefing and policy papers for decision makers
• Tracking the RSC’s political engagement activity and impact
• Working closely with the Media and Communications team and wider organisation to map, broaden and develop stakeholder relations – developing advocates and growing the Company’s reputation
• Producing relevant company communications
• Contributing to the development and production of RSC corporate copy and content
• Working with the Stakeholder events team to support events and briefings.
• Delivering a programme of internal communication for RSC staff and freelancers
• Supporting the reputation management of the Company

To be suitable for this role you must bring:

• Significant PR experience
• An active interest and understanding of the political landscape
• An interest in the arts sector and impact this has on people’s lives
• Experience of working on policy documents
• Experience of developing excellent targeted briefings and corporate communications
• The ability to tell compelling stories and confidence when engaging with stakeholders at all levels
• Proven leadership and people management skills
• An insight into the delivery of a strong internal communications strategy
• The ability to prioritise a busy, variable and sometimes deadline driven workload

The RSC offers the following benefits and perks:

• 25 days annual leave, rising to 28 after 3 years’ service, plus Public Holidays
• Subsidised car parking
• Contributory pension scheme
• Complimentary tickets for productions in Stratford-upon-Avon and London.
• Staff discounts, including discounted tickets, discount in the RSC shop, restaurant, cafes, and other local Stratford-upon-Avon businesses Onsite Occupational Health and Colleague Assistance Programme
• Annual cost of living pay award, not contractual based upon union negotiation
• Access to the RSC Ofsted ‘outstanding’ children’s Nursery in Stratford-upon-Avon
• Access to RSC training and personal development

This is a full-time, permanent position (35 hours per week). The RSC supports hybrid ways of working, with roles split between the home and office if desirable. You can spend as much time in the office as suits. The RSC’s Media and Communications team is split between Stratford-upon-Avon and London and this role requires a minimum of two days a week in either office with time spent in the Stratford-upon-Avon office. The line manager and direct reports are based in Stratford-upon-Avon. There will be occasional activity outside of normal working hours and some limited travel away from base.

The post is part of the Media and Communications team and the wider RSC’s Audiences and Marketing Department. The team plays a key role in representing the RSC to a wide range of external stakeholders in telling the broad story of the RSC.  It deals with the full range of RSC activity, across a huge variety of stakeholder groups.  Day-to-day it is fast paced with the team working on multiple projects at any one time.

All applications should be made online using the RSC website. If you need any assistance when applying, please email jobs@rsc.org.uk

The RSC strives for excellence, and values integrity, inclusion, ambition and innovation. We act with respect, show leadership and build resilient ways of working in all our activities.

We can offer great benefits and aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment which is happy, healthy and safe. We place great importance upon developing a diverse, highly motivated and energised workforce to help achieve our priorities. We put our values at the heart of everything we do.

We are committed to building a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all individuals.

The Royal Shakespeare Company (no. 212481) is a registered charity.