Responsibilities

• Lead our approach to strategic communications, seeking opportunities to engage external audiences, disseminate key messages, and raise RBGE’s profile on a national and international stage through press and media engagement.
• Oversee the communications and publishing functions, with direct line management for the Press Manager and Publications Editors.
• Provide key support to the Regius Keeper (CEO) and the Executive Team in shaping engagement and communication strategies with political stakeholders across the Scottish and UK governments.
• Active member of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to RBGE’s corporate strategy and policy relationships.
• Full time, permanent, based in Edinburgh with some travel to our gardens across Scotland and elsewhere in the UK.

Requirements

• Educated to degree-level or equivalent professional qualifications or experience.
• Substantial experience in a senior press or communications role - or with a background in journalism - with a demonstrable track record of leading high-impact communications strategies.
• Evidenced experience of devising and delivering high-impact press releases and press pitches the gain widespread media coverage across mainstream UK and international outlets such as the BBC.
• Demonstrable knowledge of the UK political landscape with experience in engaging with and influencing senior stakeholders from multiple sectors.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with experience overseeing functions across the wider strategic communications spectrum including public affairs.
• Expertise in developing PR strategies and managing media relations, with demonstrable success in securing high-quality press coverage in mainstream media.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including copywriting and editing, presenting and public speaking.
• Confident relationship-building skills including experience of managing external relationships on behalf of an institution and effective communication with key influencers and colleagues in various roles.
• Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to use insights to drive decision-making and improve return on investment.
• Experience of significant budget management and financial oversight.
• Willingness to work flexibly, including attending events outside of standard working hours as required.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion principles.

Benefits

• generous holiday entitlement
• family friendly policies
• discounts at our gardens and other benefits
• Civil Service pension