University of Nottingham Ningbo China is seeking to recruit Deputy Director/Senior Manager of Internal Communications

Your Responsibilities

The role holder will develop and deliver effective communications strategies for internal and external audiences. The role is responsible for the strategic leadership of internal communications at UNNC working closely with the Provost and other members of the UNNC Management Board, notably the Vice-Provost People and Culture. The role holder will develop high-impact engagement and align internal and executive messaging to support the university's strategic objectives. A key part of this role is to ensure communications are considered as integral to how UNNC drives leadership, change and innovation in an increasingly challenging global environment. The role will work closely to ensure effective and coordinated communications to students too.

The role holder will require political acumen and demonstrate proactivity in developing visible and effective collaboration with senior leaders, the academic community and other services. They will also work collaboratively with colleagues, based in the UK and Malaysia, on tri-campus engagement and communications and advocating on behalf of the University of Nottingham overall.

Your key responsibilities include:

1. Responsible for internal communications strategy and plans

• Responsible for the development of strategy and delivery of internal communications to ensure we achieve positive, high impact engagement which builds institutional affinity among students and staff;
• Responsible for the development of strategy and delivery of executive communications, supported by appropriate digital tools, to enhance the university’s thought leadership and public image;

2. Delivery of high-quality communications

• Devise communications objectives, develop plans and calendar, produce quality content and define suitable channels to secure targeted, timely and consistent internal communications;
• Manage the existing internal communications channels (including but not limited to the Staff Portal, the Student Portal and all staff group email), and further develop other tools, channels and approaches for effective and efficient internal communications;

3. Measurement and report

• Track and report internal and executive communications performance regularly;
• Use data analytics to measure the effectiveness of communication efforts and make data-driven decisions;

The following responsibilities are also required for the role holder at Deputy Director level:

• Shape strategic direction of internal communication strategy development, initiating and managing changes, planning and organizing the activities of others now and in the longer term, to support departmental objectives; 
• Act as a main adviser to departmental annual operational and budgetary planning processes.
• Provide expert input to internal and external meetings, influencing and facilitating different opinions to reach a consensus, negotiating terms and pushing forward new developments and change as required;
• Consult with service users and other institutions/bodies to establish service requirements, standards and priorities for change.
• Generate original developments and innovative solutions that consider the strategic implications for the institution and do not limit future choices;  
• Report on matters relating to internal communications that will have an impact across the University, using relevant management techniques (e.g. SWOT analysis), to support informed decision making at the highest level.  

About You

• Bachelor degree in related discipline;
• At least 5-year track record of proactive communications strategy development, delivery and execution in line with organisational objectives;
• Understanding the importance of confidentiality, and the ability to be diplomatic in sensitive situations;
• Advising and influencing senior colleagues, and gaining their respect;
• Excellent understanding of communication strategy and techniques;
• Exceptional ability in English to communicate and explain complex issues in a clear, concise and persuasive language, both verbally and in writing;
• Sound understanding of the relevant professional, legal and regulatory requirements of own field of work;

In additional to above requirement, the followings are also essentially required at Deputy Director level:

• Experience of managing and controlling budgets/resources and an understanding of financial management procedures;
• Breadth of vision gained from extensive experience in field of expertise;
• Widespread awareness and understanding of the activities and objectives of the University, both current and future;  
• Strategic operational planning, management and business process skills;
• Proven people and change management skills;
• Proven advanced analytical and problem-solving capability

About Us

Join a unique British University in China.  The University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) was the first Sino-foreign university to open its doors in China. Located in Ningbo, this award winning campus offering a UK style education has grown to establish a student body of nearly 10,000 in just 21 years.

Your Remuneration, Benefits and Support 

This is a regular post that you will be offered a fixed term contract initially of 3 years with a probation of 6 months with University of Nottingham Ningbo China. We are committed to providing competitive employment packages while supporting the wellbeing of our staff to help them reach their full potential.

How to Apply

Applicants should apply via our on-line application system before 18 May 2025. Only on-line applications made at (https://jobs.nottintham.edu.cn/184130/) will be accepted. Referees will be contracted prior to interview and interviews will take place in Ningbo China.

Enquiries

If you are unable to apply on-line, please contact Recruitment Team, Email: Job@nottingham.edu.cn

Equality and Diversity 

University of Nottingham Ningbo China is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportively learning and working environment for our students and staff. It is our intention to ensure that job applicants and staff are treated solely on the basis of their merits, abilities and potential, regardless of gender, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, age*, socio-economic background, disability, religious or political beliefs, trade union membership, family circumstances, sexual orientation or other irrelevant distinction.

Attachment: Job Description/Role Profile